Elaine O'Neal (politician)

Elaine O'Neal is an American politician. She served as the Mayor of Durham, North Carolina from 2021 to 2023. Prior to becoming mayor, O'Neal served as a judge in Durham County Superior Court. She was appointed to that position by Governor Bev Perdue in 2011 and subsequently won election to retain her seat. O'Neal earned a Juris Doctor from North Carolina Central University School of Law. Her political focus during her tenure as mayor included affordable housing, public safety, and economic development within the city of Durham. She did not seek re-election in 2023.