When it comes to Atlanta, politics Glenn Thomas remains undaunted in his quixotic quest to be elected our next mayor. Admittedly a perceived underdog nine months from November's election day, Thomas, for many, has a grit, grace and game plan that could propel him to an unprecedented upset victory. His confidence, conviction and commitment are compelling.

"I didn't decide to run because I am interested in politics, I decided to run because I love this city and Atlanta needs change,” said Thomas, a personable and proud 31-year-old Atlanta native, in a recent interview with "NEWSMAKERS" Live/Journal.  “I have the requisite skills we now need to govern, lead and reinvigorate our respective communities.”

Thomas' growing cadre of grassroots supporters passionately contends that he is this era's "on and popping" new breed politico, "a gifted young gun" armed with the potential and panache to surprise the conventional pundits that deem to dismiss the appeal that fuels his candidacy.

"He's got the 'it'," said political activist Debra DeBerry. "He's got something that is refreshing, that's new, that's extraordinary.  We elected a president on hope and change and he affects us nationally. This young man will affect hope and change locally. That's what we need."

Some might say Thomas is an executive manager with the moxie to pursue a mission aimed at rectifying the "mismanagement of our finances and tax dollars."

"Public service has always been in my blood," said Glenn, who holds a master's degree in public administration from North Carolina Central University.  "We need a radical change in how we do business as a government.

“The citizens of Atlanta, all of whom love Atlanta dearly, are just frustrated. We've never witnessed such a drastic reversal of fortune and service cutbacks."

While Glenn, who has served in various financial management roles for the city of Atlanta, laments the city's fiscal woes, he also believes he has the formula to correct the crisis.

"I've been there," he said with authority. "I actually was a budget and policy manager for the public safety division in the finance office. I was there when many of the decisions were being made that were not the right decisions.  I raised my voice about some of the avenues we should take in identifying revenues that we weren't collecting, becoming more efficient, planning more, being more strategic in how we budget for operations.  All those recommendations I made as a front line manager we are now going to bring back to the table."

During a recent book signing party for syndicated columnist and pollster Matt Towery at Atlanta’s Manuel's Tavern, Thomas mixed easily with the roomful of political heavyweights.  It was one of his first campaign appearances, a coming out of sorts as well as an introduction to some of his mayoral opponents and Atlanta politics.  Thomas' presence and poise was palpable. 

"Our campaign is going to be centered on change that means better management," Thomas said. "It means community involvement; it means responsive government; it means responsible government. We need a change in government, a change in the way we do business, a change in the way we think, and we need a change in our priorities."

Still the odds are far from being in Thomas' favor thus far.  His competitors -- including state Sen. Kasim Reed, City Council President Lisa Borders, City Councilwoman Mary Norwood and others -- have political experience, name recognition and considerable campaign war chests.  Thomas doesn't blink or backslide. He says he is not foolish in this political pursuit, just finely focused.

"I was there when the administration didn't do what they should have done and now we need to right those wrongs," Thomas said.  "We don't need persons who are basically career politicians." 

Kevin Ross, a noted political consultant calls Thomas "by all circumstances, a long shot."

Long time Atlanta political columnist Tom Houck says of Thomas' bid for the coveted mayor's job, "He's energetic and there are a lot of people like that that came through [President Barack Obama's] campaign who now think change can happen and it can happen to them. There is so much hope out there."

And Ron Zirpoli, a popular in-town political activist, is also not too quick to dismiss Thomas. 

"I really don't know enough about him but if he's a young guy who comes from a real community base and has been doing progressive things then I think it could be interesting."

Thomas, a Peoplestown homeowner and a successful product of Atlanta's inner-city, comes from a politically influential family.  His grandfather, Clarence G. Ezzard, Sr. was one of Atlanta's first black legislators and served under Jimmy Carter when he was governor. His family believes in public service.

"We have to be the change agents that stand up for what is right," Thomas says. "..It’s up to us."