Tecklenburg new mayor of Charleston

State Representative Leon Stavrinakis and businessman John Tecklenburg, both white, emerged from a field that had included three black candidates.

On Tuesday night Tecklenburg cruised to an easy victory, capturing more than 57 percent of the total vote and beating Stavrinakis by more than 3,500 votes, according to unofficial results.

Stavrinakis’s watch party is underway at the Rice Mill in downtown Charleston. Riley has served as mayor longer than anyone in Charleston’s 345-year history. “The work to do- to deal with traffic, to deal with schools, to deal with our future, and so I need all of you to work with me, to work with our new mayor to make Charleston the very best place that it can be moving forward …” The mayor-elect’s supporters shouted news of the evening’s final voter tally and Stavrinakis’ concession as Tecklenburg was announced the victor.

He did not endorse any candidates in the race to succeed him.

“He ran a confident and spirited campaign”.

Stavrinakis said he will continue to represent part of Charleston County in the House of Representatives.

He said he called Tecklenburg before making his concession speech to congratulate Tecklenburg on his win.

Deerin’s impact was especially noticeable in West Ashley. He said he would be at Tecklenburg’s service to help with anything for the benefit of the people and the city.

“I don’t have all the answers”. “It takes all of us together, not just one person as mayor”.

In addition to the mayor’s race, the remaining council seats for Charleston and Mount Pleasant are also being decided in the runoff. Gary White claimed 52 percent of votes, defeating Shawn Pinkston in District 1. Lewis received 54 percent of votes to maintain his seat. In District 3, Jim Bailey is up against incumbent James Lewis.