Derrick Wilson, 33
Derrick Wilson has never let age stop his entrepreneurial spirit. He started his first company at the age of 21. Now this smaller business owner is running for Gwinnett County Commissioner, to bring diverse representation to one of the country’s most diverse areas.
What was the best piece of advice you received about running for office?
Take advantage of every opportunity in excellence and be yourself. Focus on your race and stand firm in what you believe, regardless of the outcome.
What are the potholes in your district? What are the issues you feel are going ignored and you want to see addressed?
One of the biggest issues is the large number of homeless veterans and the lack of affordable housing. Gwinnett County is the home of over 50,000 veterans, with an estimated 10,000 being homeless. The lack of affordable housing has forced a large number of residents, including veterans, to live in motels for an extended period of time. My campaign is seeking to create collaborative efforts between private and interjurisdictional agreements that will bring the costs of development to a more affordable rate within the county.
Another issue is the lack of an all-inclusive transit system. Living in Gwinnett County is a challenge is one does not own a personal vehicle. With the cost of taxis and ride-share programs on the rise, the need for a more inclusive transit system is more substantial than ever. Research has shown that neighborhoods with access to public transportation reflected an increase in property value. Also with an effective public transportation system, economic development opportunities increased with the attraction of large corporations to the area. My plan is to apply for federal and state funding for the expansion of our current transit system.
When did the lightbulb go off? When did you realize you wanted to run for office?
I first had interest in this position in 2017, when the incumbent made racist comments about Civil Rights icon, Congressman John Lewis, that made me question his commitment to serving our community. The final straw was in late 2018, when the incumbent yet again displayed his total disregard for service by his disrespectful actions during a fallen officer’s funeral procession. Both events showed me the need for a representative that is an advocate for the community. I have always believed in giving back to my community, that's just how I was raised. Now that I’m older, I look for new ways to be of service to others. The incumbent for my district is not involved in the community to know the needs of the community. So how could he be effective in serving the community?
You've highlighted the lack of diversity in the county's leadership, despite Gwinnett County being labeled the "Most Diverse County in the Southeast". What perspectives do you think are missing in the county? What perspectives do you hope to bring?
While Gwinnett County is labeled the “Most Diverse County in the Southeast,” that diversity is lacking in leadership. I believe the perspectives of the various cultures that are spread throughout our county, are being ignored. “Taxation without Representation” Gwinnett County has become a minority-majority county, and in some aspects, the minority perspective is still missing.
“While Gwinnett County is labeled the “Most Diverse County in the Southeast,” that diversity is lacking in leadership. I believe the perspectives of the various cultures that are spread throughout our county, are being ignored.”
As a small business owner, I know what it is like to go without, to make sacrifices for the greater good of others. I bring to the table the capacity to balance a budget, make executive decisions, and the proficiency to implement initiatives that are beneficial for both now and the future. Gwinnett County has to do a better job of making sure the people are aware of the resources available to assist them and I believe I can help with that.
“Don’t be discouraged by naysayers. Don’t listen to the comparisons of others’ campaigns. Be true to yourself, run YOUR race, and never give up.”
Upon winning the election, I will be one of the youngest Commissioners ever for Gwinnett County. That in itself, brings a perspective and familiarity with the inner workings of technology, government, and society as a whole.
Young candidates are often dismissed because of their lack of experience. What do you think has prepared you the most for this position?
I am in a unique situation, due to the fact that I started my first company at the age of 21. Being a serial entrepreneur, I have a broad set of experiences from building businesses that would be beneficial for any situation. My managerial experiences have prepared me the most for this position due to its executive nature.
What advice would you give to another young Democrat considering a run for office?
Keep a core group of trustworthy individuals around you throughout your campaign. They can be friends or family, more commonly known as your kitchen cabinet. This is most important because when you’re young, people see an opportunity to take advantage of you. They make promises they don’t keep, make unreasonable demands, and offer services that push their personal agenda. Don’t be discouraged by naysayers. Don’t listen to the comparisons of others’ campaigns. Be true to yourself, run YOUR race, and never give up.