Phoenix council names Keisha Hodge Washington vice mayor; council also swears in judges and board appointees

Phoenix City Council on Jan. 6 voted unanimously to name Councilwoman Keisha Hodge Washington as vice mayor for 2026, a role council members said she will assume at the next meeting.

Councilman Kevin Robinson formally nominated Keisha Hodge Washington, who thanked colleagues for their support and said she approaches the role with a focus on "listening to our communities, asking the hard questions, and working towards solutions that are fair, practical, and grounded in the needs of our city." The nomination drew praise for outgoing Vice Mayor Anne O'Brien's service; O'Brien said she supported Hodge Washington and highlighted the vice mayor role's international and civic duties.

The vote followed ceremonial items early in the meeting. The council approved Mayor and City Council boards and commissions nominations and swore in several municipal court judges. Council members repeatedly thanked new appointees and family members present for public service.

Council members framed the vice-mayor selection as a continuity of city leadership. Council members also used the moment to note larger economic developments — including the city's recent aviation activity — and to emphasize priorities such as housing, public safety and parks.

What happens next: Hodge Washington's term as vice mayor begins at the next council meeting; council staff will publish the updated committee assignments and ceremonial calendars.