EUFAULA, Ala. (WRBL) — Voters in Eufaula will head to the polls Tuesday to decide who will be the city's next mayor.
Mayor Jack Tibbs, who has led the city for 13 years, is facing political newcomer Chris Beam in a runoff election.
Tibbs was the top vote-getter in the August election, but Beam — a nurse — forced the runoff by finishing a close second.
Both candidates have focused their campaigns on key issues in the city.
"I think it's probably health care. Health care is probably the biggest issue," Tibbs said. "He was talking about jobs initially, but we've been able to acquire almost 340 jobs since this campaign started … Health care is probably the number one. That's what I see."
Beam said his campaign reflects residents' desire for new leadership.
"I think it sends a message to the current administration that we are trying to have a platform for change in Eufaula," Beam said. "To come within 76 votes of a three-time sitting incumbent mayor sends a pretty strong message, and we feel the people of Eufaula will turn back up and they will vote again the second time in this runoff."
Both men have been working to get voters out for the single ballot issue on Tuesday. And they both have been combating the keyboard warriors on social media.
"You know, a small town environment. I mean, I know I don't know every single person, but I know most of them. So, when those things set out there on social media and you won't mind if, you see somebody side eye and they believe that, you know, and that bothers me big time," Tibbs said.
"I mean, Mr. Tibbs has faced a tremendous amount of scrutiny on social media. His family has, just like I have. We have families outside of politics. I would encourage voters to use your voice at the polls instead of sparing putting rumors on Facebook and social media. Use your voice. On Tuesday, the 23rd of September, and make your vote heard, because that's truly how change is going to happen," he said.
Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. CST on Tuesday.
0 comments: