Editing John Street (section)

== Political Rise ==

John Street grew up in Norristown, Pennsylvania, and moved to Philadelphia to attend Temple University Law School. He became involved in Democratic politics, winning election to City Council in 1979 and serving as Council president from 1992 to 1999. As Council president, Street developed a reputation as a skilled legislative tactician and fierce advocate for his North Philadelphia district. His style was confrontational—he clashed repeatedly with Rendell and other officials—but effective in advancing his priorities. When Rendell left office due to term limits, Street won the 2000 Democratic primary and general election to become mayor.<ref name="bissinger">{{cite book |last=Bissinger |first=Buzz |title=A Prayer for the City |year=1997 |publisher=Random House |location=New York}}</ref>

Street's election reflected the continuing political power of Philadelphia's African American community. Like Goode before him, Street drew overwhelming support from Black voters while facing significant opposition in white neighborhoods. The racial polarization that had characterized Philadelphia politics since the [[Frank Rizzo Era]] remained, though demographic changes and the city's Democratic dominance made African American candidates increasingly viable. Street's victory also reflected his neighborhood roots—he had built his career representing working-class communities often overlooked by Center City-focused development.<ref name="paolantonio"/>