Burgess wins Washington mayoral race
Jojo Burgess admitted a feeling of relief Wednesday morning after winning the race for mayor of the city of Washington.
Also not lost on him is the history of his achievement, as Burgess will become the city’s first Black mayor.
“That’s the one part that really hasn’t set in yet, the history behind what happened,” Burgess said. “The residents of Washington have said we want this person leading us. I want to believe it’s because of the work ethic I’ve shown throughout my life. Being the first Black mayor, that’s huge. I can’t explain what it feels like to know you’re that person. It’s something I can’t be more grateful for. Sometimes, it’s the right time and the right place. This must be that.”
Burgess, a Democrat, outdistanced independent Mark Kennison in a close race. Burgess collected 1,057 votes to Kennison’s 1,031. There were nine write-in votes cast.
“Both campaigns did work hard to achieve what I think is something that is going to be better moving on for the city,” Burgess said. “I’m glad that the residents chose my plan and my vision.”
Burgess, 53, is a longtime steel worker and veteran political and union activist. He is a graduate of Trinity High School and served in the military from 1988-95. He was invited to sit with first lady Jill Biden at the 2022 State of the Union Address.
In his campaign, Burgess stressed a need for unity in the city.
“We’ve got to have a united front in this city,” he said. “We’ve got to start bringing back resources for all of our residents. We’ve got to start making sure that our downtown looks very nice. We’ve got to make sure that our neighborhoods are picked up a little bit better. There’s a whole plate full of stuff we’ve got to digest and get through so we can achieve greatness for everyone.”
Burgess said part of that unity involves working with City Council to make sure they’re working together for the community.
“I want to give City Hall back to the community,” he said. “I want the residents of Washington to feel like City Hall is a place that’s working for every resident of this city.”
Burgess spoke kindly of the job performed by predecessor Scott Putnam. Burgess defeated Putnam in the primary to win the Democratic nomination.
“We want to appreciate the things that he’s done,” Burgess said. “Hopefully, I can come and just improve on some of those things and make them that much better.”
Kennison, 40, owns President’s Pub restaurant and Nineteen North event venue in Washington. He secured enough signatures to run as an independent candidate.
He did not return a phone call seeking comment.
In all other city races, Democratic candidates ran unopposed.
Council incumbents Kenneth Westcott (1,438 votes) and Joseph Pintola (1,191 votes) return to their seats for four-year terms. There were 74 write-in votes cast in the council election.
Anthony Nicotella will return as city treasurer, collecting 1,735 votes. There were 38 write-in votes cast.
Nicholas Dubina will return to his post as city controller, receiving 1,689 votes against 35 write-in votes.