Arkansas town elects 18-year-old for mayor

EARLE, Arka. (NBC) - The town of Earle has elected the nation's youngest African-American mayor.

18-year-old Jaylen Smith will now lead the people of Earle.

"I feel amazing...unbelievable you know. Breaking barriers, obstacles. It's amazing," Smith said.

While overwhelmed with emotion, Jaylen Smith is coming to terms that he's the youngest African-American mayor across the USA.

But, his win didn't come as a surprise.

"I did expect this to be the outcome because throughout my campaign, I was always told to outwork my opponent."

Small community, national attention

Not only that, he outscored his opponent, winning the election 218 to 139.

Because of Smith's mayoral victory, a small community is now getting national attention.

"A lot of people get to see it like congressmen, celebrities...probably the President has saw it already. So, it's just amazing, getting all these interviews and speaking with different people about my why," Smith added.

Won't be an easy task

His why is beautifying the city, housing, and improving public safety, starting with a 24/7 police department plus bringing a grocery store in town, which the city currently lacks.

Smith also knows that these goals won't be an easy task.

"I'm a little nervous, but throughout my high school time, I've been preparing. I'm a go-getter. Whatever the city needs, I'm going to get."

Fresh out of high school

Earlier this year, Action News 5 was the first to travel to Earle to speak with Smith.

In August, during the town's midterm election, he was fresh out of high school.

As of now, his first job has won him the title of mayor.

"It's not just going to take me making our city better...it's going to take myself, the city council, the people to work together as a team collaborative to move the city forward."

Smith's message

His message to those who believe he might be too young for the position:

"I use it as motivation [for] me to prove them wrong."