Three of Atlanta's prominent political personalities are colliding in the race for mayor, which is on course for a runoff that could polarize the Southern capital along racial lines.

With two formidable black candidates splitting the African-American vote amid a predicted low voter turnout, this predominantly black city could end up electing its first white mayor in a generation.

City councilwoman Mary Norwood is seeking to become the city's first white mayor since 1972. But she must get past some tough competition from city council President Lisa Borders and state Sen. Kasim Reed. If no one in the six-person race receives a majority on Tuesday, a run-off will be set for Dec. 1.