Donald E. Hayhurst

Donald Edward Hayhurst (April 1, 1924 – March 30, 2023) was an American politician who served as the mayor of Auburn, Alabama, from 1976 to 1980. He also worked as a political science professor at Auburn University.

Early life Hayhurst was born on April 1, 1924. He was drafted into the United States Army when he was eighteen years old to serve in World War II. He was later recalled into service for the Korean War. Upon his return, he received his PhD from the University of Pittsburgh.

Career Upon completing his education, Hayhurst went to Auburn University, where he assisted in the creation of the political science department. He worked as a professor from 1968 to 1988. Mayor of Auburn In 1976, Hayhurst announced that he would run to become the next mayor of Auburn. One of his campaign promises was a pledge to attempt to abolish the office of mayor. He advanced from the first round on August 10, 1976, securing 36% of the vote against four opponents. His runoff opponent was O. Clyde Prather, a city councilmember. Hayhurst defeated Prather on September 14, 1976, with 56% of the vote.

As mayor, Hayhurst did not accept the salary of $7,800 per year. Hayhurst had a feud with Auburn city manager Earl Tisdale.

In 1979, he sued the city council and five other residents over a $150,000 payment from the city to a corporation that installed sewage in the city. He alleged that former mayor James K. Haygood Jr. violated ethics as he was an attorney for the corporation at the time. The state ethics commission ruled that Haygood did not violate the law. In response to the lawsuit, all nine council members voted to approve a use of city funds to defend themselves in the case.

Personal life and death Hayhurst was married to his wife, Joyce, for 17 years. He died on March 30, 2023.