Kirk Watson Poised for Victory in Tight Austin Mayoral Race

Kirk Watson appears to have emerged victorious in the Austin mayoral election after more than a week of ballot counting in Travis, Hays, and Williamson counties. Watson secured 50.004% of the total after all unofficial ballots were tallied, surpassing the runoff threshold by 14 votes. A total of 175,090 votes were cast. Watson has been projected as the victor, despite the fact that these figures are unofficial.

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Williamson County intends to finalize its findings by November 19, while Travis County anticipates concluding its canvass by November 15. Hays County has already certified its tally, and the Texas Secretary of State's office has established a final certification deadline of November 19.

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"I am grateful to the voters for their trust in me and for electing me to serve as the mayor of Austin for the fourth time." Watson acknowledged on social media that defeating four opponents in a presidential year without a runoff would be an extraordinary accomplishment.

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Had the contest been conducted as a runoff, Watson would have faced Carmen Llanes Pulido, who finished in second place. According to Pulido, "I am awaiting an official tally from the three counties before making a decision, as the results are unofficial and the margin is so close." It is our responsibility to ensure that each vote is counted and that every voice is heard in Austin.

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Watson's 50.01% vote share on election night was sufficient to avert a runoff. As a result of the prevalence of provisional votes, overseas ballots, and late mail, the outcome has been uncertain up until this point.

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