Young begins runoff fight for Atlanta mayor's chair

October 8, 1981

Former UN Ambassador Andrew Young, forced into an Oct. 27 runoff by a vote along racial lines, began a three-week campaign for mayor Wednesday against a white state legislator who must attract some of the black vote to win.

Mr. Young led the nonpartisan balloting Tuesday with 41 percent of the vote, according to complete but unofficial returns. Mr. Marcus received 38 percent. A survey showed balloting was virtually along black-white lines, with very little racial crossover.

Young and Marcus are seeking the seat held by Mayor Maynard Jackson, the first black mayor of a major southern city. Mr. Jackson, who backed Young, cannot succeed himself after serving two 4-year terms.