Dallas Election Results: Mayor Eric Johnson Secures Re-election, City Council Incumbents Prevail, District 3 Faces Runoff
In a pivotal moment for local governance, the recent Dallas City Council elections have solidified leadership across the city, with Mayor Eric Johnson successfully securing another term. With all 366 polling places reporting official results, a resounding message of continuity and trust in current leadership emerged, as nearly all eligible Dallas City Council incumbents will be returning to their seats in the horseshoe. This comprehensive outcome reflects a period of stability for Dallas, yet also sets the stage for a critical runoff election in District 3, which will determine a new voice for Southwest Dallas.
The election, which saw residents across the city cast their ballots, was a testament to the democratic process at the municipal level. While many races were decided outright, the contest in District 3 stood out as no single candidate managed to secure the required 50 percent of the vote. This necessitates a second round of voting, ensuring that the district’s next representative is chosen with a clear majority mandate. This article delves into the results, highlighting key victories, competitive races, and what these outcomes signify for Dallas’s future direction.
For a detailed look back at the candidates and issues, refer to our Voters’ Guide from the early voting period.
The full official election totals, providing a granular view of every vote cast, are available and posted below for public review and analysis, offering complete transparency into the electoral process. These detailed results underscore the importance of every ballot and the collective voice of Dallas residents in shaping their city’s future.
Mayor’s Race: A Clear Mandate for Eric Johnson
Incumbent: Eric Johnson secured a decisive victory with an impressive 42,990 votes.
Challenger: Write-in candidate Kendal Richardson garnered 3,227 votes.
Coverage Area: City of Dallas
Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson’s re-election without significant opposition marks a strong affirmation of his leadership. His resounding victory sends a clear signal that a majority of Dallas residents, spanning diverse demographics and geographic areas, are largely content with the city’s current trajectory under his guidance. This widespread consensus is a powerful endorsement of his administration’s policies and strategic vision for Dallas.
Reflecting on his lack of challengers, Mayor Johnson articulated a sentiment of unity and shared purpose across the city. He stated, “It’s a statement that this city, no matter where you live, no matter what race you are, no matter your gender, you are pretty much in agreement that the city is moving in the right direction and that we have good leadership at the top and the mayor’s office.” This perspective highlights his belief that his re-election is not merely a personal triumph but a collective vote of confidence in the stability and progress Dallas is experiencing. It allows him to enter his new term with a powerful mandate, potentially enabling bolder initiatives and sustained focus on key urban development and community priorities.
“It’s a statement that this city, no matter where you live, no matter what race you are, no matter your gender, you are pretty much in agreement that the city is moving in the right direction and that we have good leadership at the top and the mayor’s office,” Johnson said. pic.twitter.com/epVMI4sl9o
— Mayor Eric L. Johnson (@Johnson4Dallas) May 4, 2023
District 1: West Prevails in North Oak Cliff
Incumbent: Chad West secured re-election with 2,132 votes.
Challengers: Mariana Griggs received 346 votes, and Albert Mata earned 1,613 votes.
Coverage Area: North Oak Cliff
Council Member Chad West’s re-election demonstrates strong support from the North Oak Cliff community, reflecting voter confidence in his continued representation. His successful campaign against two challengers highlights an endorsement of his ongoing efforts and plans for the district.
District 2: Moreno Retains Seat for Deep Ellum and East Dallas
Incumbent: Jesse Moreno was re-elected with 1,855 votes.
Challenger: Sukhbir Kaur received 331 votes.
Coverage Area: Deep Ellum, Old East Dallas, the Medical District
Jesse Moreno’s re-election signifies that voters in District 2 are satisfied with his advocacy for areas like Deep Ellum, Old East Dallas, and the Medical District. His strong performance against a challenger indicates a clear mandate to continue his work.
District 3: The Path to a Runoff in Southwest Dallas
No Incumbent: Casey Thomas is term-limited, opening the seat for a new representative.
Candidates:
- Zarin Gracey received 1,394 votes (46.22%).
- Joe Tave received 777 votes (25.76%).
- Denise Benavides received 317 votes.
- August Doyle received 104 votes.
- John Sims received 424 votes.
Coverage Area: Southwest Dallas
The District 3 race emerged as the most competitive and is the only one headed to a runoff election, scheduled for June 10. With five candidates vying for the open seat vacated by term-limited Council Member Casey Thomas, the votes were widely distributed. Zarin Gracey, who received a significant endorsement from the outgoing Thomas, led the field with 46.22 percent of the vote. However, this fell just shy of the 50 percent threshold required to avoid a runoff, highlighting the robust democratic process at play.
Grace will now face Joe Tave, who secured 25.76 percent of the vote, in a head-to-head contest next month. This runoff is crucial for the residents of Southwest Dallas, as it will determine their next representative who will play a vital role in shaping local policies and advocating for community needs. The endorsement from Casey Thomas for Zarin Gracey adds an interesting dynamic, potentially signaling a desire for continuity in the district’s leadership. The upcoming runoff promises to be a focused and intense battle for the future direction of District 3.
He’s got next pic.twitter.com/rsftubbil1
— Casey Thomas (@caseyt07) December 19, 2022
District 4: Carolyn King Arnold Secures Re-election in South Oak Cliff
Incumbent: Carolyn King Arnold was re-elected with 1,683 votes.
Challenger: JamieSmith received 911 votes.
Coverage Area: South Oak Cliff
Council Member Carolyn King Arnold’s victory in District 4 underscores the trust that South Oak Cliff residents place in her leadership. Her successful re-election campaign suggests an affirmation of her ongoing work for the community and its development.
District 5: Jaime Resendez Continues Representation in Southeast Dallas
Incumbent: Jaime Resendez was re-elected with 863 votes.
Challengers: Yolanda Faye Williams received 296 votes, and Terry Perkins received 451 votes.
Coverage Area: Southeast Dallas
Jaime Resendez’s successful re-election in District 5 indicates that voters in Southeast Dallas continue to support his vision and contributions to the council. His win against multiple challengers highlights a stable and consistent representation for the district.
District 6: Omar Narvaez Maintains Leadership in West Dallas
Incumbent: Omar Narvaez was re-elected with 892 votes.
Challengers: Tony Carrillo received 72 votes, Monica R. Alonzo received 638 votes, and Sidney Robles Martinez received 72 votes.
Coverage Area: West Dallas
Omar Narvaez’s re-election in District 6 reflects the continued confidence of West Dallas voters in his leadership despite a competitive field of challengers. His victory ensures experienced representation for this vital part of the city.
District 7: Adam Bazaldua Re-elected for South Dallas and Fair Park
Incumbent: Adam Bazaldua was re-elected with 1,185 votes.
Challengers: Okema Thomas received 69 votes, Tracy Dotie Hill received 988 votes, and Marvin E. Crenshaw received 150 votes.
Coverage Area: South Dallas, Fair Park
Adam Bazaldua’s successful re-election campaign in District 7, which encompasses South Dallas and Fair Park, demonstrates a continued mandate from his constituents. His victory ensures consistent leadership for a district with significant cultural and economic importance to the city.
District 8: Tennell Atkins Victorious in Southern Dallas
Incumbent: Tennell Atkins was re-elected with 1,583 votes.
Challengers: Subrina Lynn Brenham received 353 votes, and Davante “Shawt” Peters received 78 votes.
Coverage Area: Southern Dallas
Tennell Atkins’ re-election in District 8 underscores his established presence and effectiveness in Southern Dallas. His constituents have once again entrusted him with the responsibility of representing their interests and driving progress in the area.
District 9: Paula Blackmon Continues Service for White Rock Lake and Far East Dallas
Incumbent: Paula C. Blackmon was re-elected with 3,720 votes.
Challenger: Kendra Denise Madison received 947 votes.
Coverage Area: White Rock Lake, Far East Dallas
Paula C. Blackmon’s re-election in District 9, covering the significant White Rock Lake area and Far East Dallas, demonstrates strong voter confidence in her representation. Her clear victory reflects approval of her past work and vision for these vibrant communities.
District 10: New Leadership for Lake Highlands
No Incumbent: Adam McGough is term-limited, paving the way for a new council member.
Candidates:
- Sirrano Keith Baldeo received 93 votes.
- Brian Hasenbauer received 1,102 votes.
- Kathy Stewart received 3,879 votes.
- Chris Carter received 641 votes.
Coverage Area: Lake Highlands
With Adam McGough’s departure due to term limits, District 10 saw a competitive race for new representation. Kathy Stewart emerged as the clear frontrunner, securing a substantial majority of the votes. Her strong performance indicates a definitive choice by the Lake Highlands community for fresh leadership and a new direction. This transition marks a significant moment for the district, bringing new perspectives and priorities to the council for this key area of Dallas.
District 11: Jaynie Schultz Secures Re-election in North Dallas
Incumbent: Jaynie Schultz was re-elected with 3,905 votes.
Challenger: Candace Evans received 2,705 votes.
Coverage Area: North Dallas
Jaynie Schultz’s successful re-election in District 11 affirms her continued mandate from North Dallas residents. Her victory against a notable challenger demonstrates strong support for her ongoing work and future plans for the district, ensuring continuity in representation.
District 12: Cara Mendelsohn Runs Unopposed, A Testament to Community Trust
Incumbent: Cara Mendelsohn was re-elected with 900 votes, running unopposed.
Coverage Area: Far North Dallas
Council Member Cara Mendelsohn’s re-election in District 12 was unique as she ran unopposed, a rare occurrence in municipal politics. This speaks volumes about the level of satisfaction and trust her constituents in Far North Dallas have in her leadership. Her unchallenged return to the council signifies broad approval of her past performance and a desire for continuity in her representation. An unopposed election often reflects deep community support and effective public service.
Mendelsohn herself celebrated this strong show of support during the early voting period, tweeting, “100% fun to say thank you to #D12 residents as they early vote!” This sentiment highlights her appreciation for the community’s engagement even in a non-competitive race, emphasizing the democratic spirit of Dallas. Her return ensures consistent advocacy for the unique needs and priorities of Far North Dallas.
100% fun to say thank you to #D12 residents as they early vote! #cara4dallas #unopposed#fretzparklibrary/Dallascounty#rennerfrankfordlibrary/Collincounty#timberglenreccenter/Dentoncounty pic.twitter.com/skXsYkrJDD
— Cara Mendelsohn 🟦 (@caraathome) April 25, 2023
District 13: Gay Donnell Willis Returns for Preston Hollow
Incumbent: Gay Donnell Willis was re-elected with 5,226 votes.
Challenger: Priscilla Shacklett received 2,562 votes.
Coverage Area: Preston Hollow
Gay Donnell Willis’s re-election in District 13, a key area like Preston Hollow, highlights her continued strong connection with her constituents. Her victory signals a vote of confidence in her leadership and dedication to the district’s specific needs and future prosperity.
District 14: Paul Ridley Secures Re-election in East Dallas and Downtown
Incumbent: Paul Ridley was re-elected with 3,488 votes.
Challengers: Amanda Schulz received 1,841 votes, and Joseph F. Miller received 250 votes.
Coverage Area: East Dallas and Downtown Dallas
Paul Ridley’s re-election in District 14, which encompasses the critical areas of East Dallas and Downtown Dallas, demonstrates continued support from voters for his representation. His successful campaign against multiple challengers indicates confidence in his ability to address the unique challenges and opportunities within these dynamic communities.
The Road Ahead for Dallas
The results of the Dallas City Council elections paint a clear picture of a city largely opting for continuity in its leadership. The overwhelming re-election of Mayor Eric Johnson, coupled with the success of most incumbent council members, suggests a widespread satisfaction among voters with the current direction of Dallas. This stability at the council level is crucial for implementing long-term strategies related to urban development, public safety, economic growth, and social equity across the city.
While the majority of seats are settled, the upcoming runoff in District 3 presents a distinct opportunity for a new voice to emerge and contribute to the council’s diverse perspectives. This final race will be closely watched, as the chosen representative will play a significant role in advocating for Southwest Dallas residents and influencing city-wide decisions. The new council, featuring both experienced and newly elected members, will face a range of challenges and opportunities, from ongoing infrastructure projects to community engagement initiatives.
Ultimately, these election results underscore the vibrant democratic spirit of Dallas. They reflect the choices of thousands of residents who participated in shaping their local government, ensuring that the city’s leadership is reflective of their needs and aspirations. As the new terms begin, the focus will shift from campaigning to governing, with the collective aim of building a stronger, more inclusive, and prosperous Dallas for all its citizens.