Jefferson City mayor wins re-election
Incumbent Carrie Tergin has won her re-election bid in dominating fashion.
Tergin beat out challenger Tiwan J. Lewis 4,145 to 746, or 84% to 15%, according to unofficial results released by the Cole County Clerk’s Office.
Tergin told reporters following the victory that she hopes to carry momentum from her first term into her second four years.
“I’m out and about. I’m a very visible mayor, and I’ve had a lot of opportunity to connect with the voters,” Tergin said. “The fact that the community has come out in such strong support, with 84%, I’m very humbled and very thankful.”
Lewis sent a concession statement to ABC 17 News reaffirming her committment to affordable housing in Jefferson City, and hoping that her hometown is able to flourish.
“I thank the community for the support I have received and I hope that me running for office gave those hope for their own life…,” Lewis said.
The two candidates have at least one thing in common: Both spent no money on their campaigns.
Tergin had just over $1,100 on hand before the election, according to the Missouri Ethics Commission. She received $175 in donations and reported no expenditures.
Lewis did not form a committee, and told ABC 17 News she did not spend any money on the campaign. She said the campaign went well considering the lack of funding.
“It has been a very rewarding experience. The community wants change, growth,” Lewis said.
Tergin said she would be eager to serve again if reelected.
“Jefferson City is moving forward in a positive way, and we are seeing an amazing amount of revitalization,” Tergin said in an email. “I would be honored to serve another four years and continue leading our amazing Capital City!”
Both candidates participated in a forum at Lincoln University last week. To watch the full event, click here.
Lewis said she wanted to tackle community issues.
“The youth, housing and our drug addictions in the community are the priorities to address in order for our community to move forward,” Lewis said. “This is the week I lost my mother and it’s most rewarding knowing that she always told me to get my education, take care of business and treat people like I want to be treated.”
For the latest information on the election and its results, click here.
