A Changing Electorate in a Majority Black City: The Emergence of a Neo-Conservative Black Urban Regime in Contemporary Atlanta

Abstract

In Atlanta, Georgia, many middle-class blacks are migrating from the city to the suburbs. Simultaneously, middle-class whites are moving into the city. These contrasting migrations contribute to a reduction in the voting power of black Atlantans, while increasing that of white Atlantans. One outcome predicted in the literature is the establishment of a progressive urban regime; another outcome suggested is the continuation of a black urban regime. The former emphasizes populist policies, while the latter promotes pro-growth programs in a majority black city. This study seeks to determine the most appropriate explanation. Using a longitudinal opinion survey of Atlanta neighborhood leaders and secondary data, it was determined that a modified black regime identified as a neo-conservative black regime exists. This governance supports conservative pro-growth policies. A similar urban regime is predicted to emerge in several majority-black cities.