Editing Frank Rizzo (section)

== Mayoral Terms ==

Rizzo won the 1971 mayoral election, defeating Republican Thacher Longstreth with strong support from white ethnic neighborhoods and unions. His first term continued law-and-order themes while pursuing development projects including construction of the Gallery at Market East. Rizzo's administration maintained close relationships with building trades unions and Democratic ward leaders while facing ongoing conflicts with African American communities and reform advocates.<ref name="pastore"/>

His second term, won in 1975, included an unsuccessful attempt to change the city charter to permit a third consecutive term. Voters rejected the charter change in 1978, ending Rizzo's hope for continued tenure. His administration faced fiscal challenges during the city's industrial decline, with budget constraints limiting city services. Rizzo remained popular with his base but increasingly polarizing citywide.<ref name="pastore"/>