About Cherelle Parker
Cherelle Parker is an accomplished American politician. She has had a distinguished political career, initially serving as a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives from 2005 to 2015, representing the 200th district. In 2015, she transitioned to the Philadelphia City Council, where she represented the ninth district from January 4, 2016, until September 7, 2022. Parker succeeded Marian B. Tasco on the City Council and was succeeded by Anthony Phillips. Currently, Cherelle Parker is the Democratic nominee for the highly anticipated 2023 Philadelphia mayoral election. Her political journey has been marked by dedication and service to her constituents, as she has consistently worked towards advancing the interests and well-being of the community she represents.
Cherelle Parker Early Life & Family
Cherelle Parker, originally named Cherelle L. Parker, was born in 1973 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States. Growing up in a neighborhood in Northwest Philadelphia, she was raised by her mother as her father was unknown to her. Tragedy struck at the age of 11 when her mother passed away, and she was subsequently raised by her grandparents, who hailed from the rural south. Sadly, her grandmother also passed away when she was 16, leaving her grandfather, a disabled Navy veteran, as her sole guardian. She has not disclosed the name of her parents to the media. Cherelle Parker holds American nationality and identifies as African-American. As of 2023, she has reached the milestone of her 50th birthday.
In 1990, Cherelle Parker showcased her public speaking skills by winning a high school contest organized by council member Augusta Clark. This achievement not only allowed her to deliver her speech before the City Council but also rewarded her with a cash prize and an opportunity to travel to Africa. While still in high school, she gained valuable experience through an internship with Marian Tasco, a Philadelphia City Council member. Continuing her education, Parker obtained a bachelor's degree from Lincoln University and a master's degree from the University of Pennsylvania. Her professional journey began as a high school English teacher, but she soon transitioned to working in Tasco's city hall office in 1995. Over the course of ten years, Parker held various positions, contributing her skills and expertise to the team.
Cherelle Parker Political Career
- In 2005, Cherelle Parker entered the political arena by running in a special election for the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, filling the vacancy left by LeAnna Washington. Parker emerged victorious, commencing a decade-long tenure in the office.
- During her time in the House, she served as chair of the Philadelphia delegation and achieved notable milestones, including spearheading the "Philadelphia Tax Fairness Package," implementing a special cigarette tax, and contributing to the amendment of state law to allow expert testimony in sexual assault cases through the 2012 Act 75.
- Following the retirement of Councilwoman Marian Tasco in 2015, Parker sought to succeed her on the Philadelphia City Council.
- The Democratic Party selected Parker as Tasco's replacement, and she triumphed in the election.
- Throughout her tenure on the council, she took a lead role in enacting the "Philly First Home" program, an initiative aimed at providing housing opportunities.
- In January 2020, Parker achieved another milestone by defeating Bobby Henon and assuming the position of majority leader for Democrats on the city council.
- In February 2021, she further expanded her influence by being elected as the chair of the board for the Delaware River Port Authority.
- On September 7, 2022, Parker announced her bid for the mayoral position in Philadelphia's 2023 election, leading her to resign from the city council to dedicate herself fully to the campaign. Parker secured the Democratic Party nomination on May 16, positioning herself as a prominent figure in the race.
Cherelle Parker Married & Husband
Cherelle Parker is happily married to her husband, Ben Mullins, who is a leader in the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. They reside together in the Mount Airy section of Philadelphia and enjoy a contented life free from disruptions and conflicts. Both of them are very supportive of each other and their love bond is going strong with the passage of time. Her sexual orientation is straight.
However, in 2011, Parker faced legal troubles when she was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol and driving the wrong way on a one-way street. Following her arrest, she was convicted and subsequently lost her appeal in 2015. As a result, she was sentenced to three days in jail, ordered to pay a $1,000 fine, and had her driver's license suspended for one year. Despite this setback, Parker has since moved forward and continued her career in politics.
Cherelle Parker Net Worth
Cherelle Parker is a prominent politician who has achieved financial success through her career in the political industry. As of 2023, her estimated net worth ranges between $500,000 and $1 million. Her primary source of income stems from her involvement in politics, and she is content with the earnings she currently receives. With an annual income in the thousands of dollars, she has established herself as a dedicated and diligent individual, making a name for herself within the political sphere. This financial stability allows her to lead a comfortable and fulfilling lifestyle.
