Allen Daly’s Story: Why He’s Running for District 7
Let’s get personal. Because if I’m calling for more transparency from our leaders, I should walk that talk too. Knowing who’s representing you, and why, matters. That’s why I’m sharing my story as a candidate for Atlanta City Council. This is is where I come from and why I care so much about where we’re headed.
Meet Allen Daly: Candidate for Atlanta City Council – District 7 
Allen with his parents, roots that run deep in Atlanta. 
Allen and his father Miles during his early childhood in Atlanta. 
A glimpse into Allen’s childhood, sharing joy and connection with his parents. 
Childhood vacation photo showing Allen’s love for animals and travel. 
Eagle Scout Rank: A milestone in Allen’s youth, reflecting leadership and dedication. 
Local press recognized Allen’s community leadership early on. 
College days at UGA 
Graduation day photo marking the start of Allen’s professional journey. 
Allen enjoying one of his favorite pastimes, golfing 
Allen practicing his lifelong hobby of tennis, which keeps him grounded, focused, and energized. 
Just Allen, his bride, and Judge Schwall. An intimate signing before the formal celebration. 
Afternoon walks in Buckhead with his 10 year old rescue dog Rusty 
Wedding day photo showing Allen, his wife Katya and Rusty in Punta del Este, Uruguay
Allen’s Roots in District 7
I am Allen Daly and I’m proud to call Buckhead home not just today, but for three generations. My roots here run deep: my grandfather, Miles Daly, opened Crain-Daly Volkswagen, the first VW dealership in Georgia, right on Piedmont Road in Buckhead. It was also here that my father grew up, and although my parents eventually moved outside the city to give me access to stronger public schools and a safer upbringing, their hearts, never left this district.
As for my upbringing, my mom was Spanish and came here to study at Georgia State University. She was strong, warm, and full of heart. My dad on the other hand, a true local. Together, they raised me as an only child, grounding me in values like service, loyalty, and responsibility. As a young man, I became an Eagle Scout. That experience shaped my belief in preparation, integrity, and leaving things better than you found them.
A Global Perspective Grounded at Home
I studied at the University of Montevideo and the University of Georgia, earning my degree in International Affairs and Business. Throughout those years, I developed not only my education but my worldview. Living and learning abroad in particular, gave me a lasting perspective. I saw how other countries invest in families, strengthen neighborhoods, and support communities.
It was also during that time in Uruguay that I met Katya, my wife, who’s been by my side for ten years.
Turning Pain Into Purpose
In 2019, everything changed. My mom was diagnosed with an aggressive cancer, soft tissue cell sarcoma, and passed away not long after. I came home to help both of my parents through that moment, and once she was gone, Katya and I decided to make Atlanta our home again, to help my dad transition to a new chapter.
Soon after, my dad had a stroke and ever since, I’ve taken on the responsibility of managing his care, coordinating his medical needs, overseeing decisions, and making sure he’s supported with dignity.
What That Season Taught Him
That time demanded adaptability and emotional strength. I learned that life rarely offers perfect conditions. You pivot, you learn, and you keep showing up. I also learned something else: real progress in life, in work, and in a community never comes from one person alone.
I’ve been able to navigate difficult seasons with steadiness because I have a strong team around me: my wife, my extended family, and the people who show up along the way. That support has allowed me to lead with poise, and now I’m ready to bring that same spirit to this next chapter of service.
Why He’s Running
Today, Katya and I live in District 7, just a few miles from where my grandfather built his business and where my dad grew up. We walk our dog Rusty through the neighborhood, continuing the story in a city that’s always been home.
We want to raise our future children here. However, like many young families, we’re asking honest questions: Can we stay? Will our kids be safe? Is this the best place to raise a family?
I believe the answer can be yes, but only if we stop accepting less while giving more.
District 7 is one of the biggest contributors of Atlanta’s budget, yet our voices are too often overlooked. That has to change.
A Life That Prepared Him to Serve
Grief, caregiving, and uncertainty didn’t stall me. Challenges shaped me. And through it all, I kept growing, personally, professionally, and purposefully.
I didn’t pause my goals. I redefined how to reach them.
Because leadership isn’t about ideal conditions. It’s about delivering anyway, with heart and grit.
This Is Bigger Than Politics
This isn’t about playing a role. This is about protecting the future of the place we call home. It’s about standing up for people who are tired of being ignored, while carrying the city on their backs; getting smart with what we have, fixing what’s broken, and protecting what’s great.
I’m running because I believe we can do better. Because I want to raise a family here and because I love this place enough to fight for it with steady work and real solutions.
I’m not here to play a part. I’m here to do the work.
