In a single-member district system, which official is elected at large?

In a single-member district system, the mayor is typically elected at large, meaning that the entire jurisdiction elects the mayor, as opposed to only the voters within a specific district. This system allows for broader representation as the mayor must appeal to a wider audience, encompassing all residents of the city or locality.

This stand-alone election for the mayor, separate from district-based elections for other officials such as council members, enhances the mayor's ability to address city-wide issues and contributes to a cohesive approach to governance. The at-large election can foster a sense of unity among voters, as they select a leader who represents their interests on a broader scale, rather than being confined to a single district.

In contrast, council members in a single-member district system are elected to represent only specific districts, while positions such as city clerks and city managers can often be appointed rather than elected. City managers, for example, are typically hired by the city council to oversee the daily operations of the city rather than elected by the public.