Atlantic City Mayor Accused Of Child Abuse Launches Re-Election Bid

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ — Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small Sr. kicked off his re-election campaign Tuesday night.

The announcement comes just days after Small was in court, where he pleaded not guilty to witness tampering charges. He was indicted on those charges last month related to accusations that he and his wife physically abused their daughter. Authorities allege that Small told his daughter, age 16, to do him a favor and "twist up" a story she had previously told police while criminal charges were pending against him for abuse in Sept. 2024.

Small's daughter was absent from the church where he announced his campaign Tuesday, according to Fox 29 Philadelphia. He told the station that she freaks out when she sees cameras.

He called the allegations a "family matter" and said his supporters weren't worried about it, according to 6abc Action News.

Small will face at least one primary challenger. Former Unite Here union President Bob McDevitt plans to run in the June primary against Small, according to the Press of Atlantic City.

Small plans to give the State of the City address Thursday in Atlantic City.

Previous Reporting:

• Atlantic City Mayor, Superintendent Indicted In Abuse Of Daughter
• Atlantic City HS Principal Who Didn't Report Child Abuse Indicted
• Atlantic City Mayor, Superintendent Abused Teen Daughter: Prosecutor