Voters have made their voices heard in the May 6th elections. While some candidates won and others lost, many have shared their thoughts on the results.

Candidates for Mayor of Amarillo

Mayor-elect Cole Stanley released a video on his campaign Facebook. In the video, he said he “couldn’t be more thankful,” expressing his gratitude to voters, as well as members of his team, including Creative Cannon, C&B Marketing, PPS, his treasurer, and those who organized his election night watch party. He then talked about how he’s looking forward to being able to make changes to council meetings. “Being able to run the meetings from that center chair, they’re gonna look a little different. We’re gonna change a few things,” said Stanley. “We’re gonna make a few things a little bit better, in my opinion, and I think you guys are gonna agree once you see it.” In a separate post, Stanley also noted that the day after election night was a busy one for his family, as his daughter Addison graduated with her Baccalaureate degree.

In a video posted from her watch party, Tonya C. Winston talked about being at peace as the results came in. “I’m at peace, I did exactly what god wanted me to do,” said Winston.

Sam Burnett also took to Facebook to share his thoughts. “I just wanted to say thank you to everyone who supported me. Remember that we have to continue to stand together in unity. We might not have won, but the fight is not over,” said Burnett. “We will bring positive changes to the city of Amarillo Texas. Keep pushing and standing together for the power of love.”

In a Facebook comment, Jeffrey McGunegle said that “It’s a Very Dark Day for Amarillo, TX.” In a separate comment, he joked that “the strategy worked flawlessly as the City Commission will change law where the person with the Least votes wins.”

So far, it does not appear either Don Collins nor Freda Powell have publicly commented on the results.

City Council Place 1

First-place finisher Josh Craft took to Facebook to state he is “beyond grateful for the incredible support I received tonight. Even with 7 names on the ballot, we still managed to get 43.2% of the votes.” He also implored his supporters to keep their signs, as he is headed to a runoff on June 24th. “Thank you so much for your continued support. Watch my page for details and get ready to vote — again!”

Second-place finisher Dean Crump, who will face Craft in the runoff, said “I am incredibly grateful for all the support you have shown me throughout this campaign. But our work isn't done just yet.”

“While this is certainly not the outcome we wanted; I want to tell you all genuinely, thank you,” said Kelsey Richardson. “I got into this because I wanted to serve my community and even though this isn’t the outcome we wanted; I will still do that.”

In a statement, Chip Hunt expressed thanks to her supporters, while also stating that “the violent crime crisis in Amarillo isn’t going anywhere,” while imploring the winners and those headed to runoffs “to take this issue seriously.” She noted that she will continue to run her business and “fight for what’s right.”

Margie Gonzales, Ray White, and Sherie Wood do not appear to have released public statements about the results.

City Council Place 2

Speaking at Mayor-elect Cole Stanley’s watch party, Councilman-elect Don Tipps expressed his gratitude and optimism for change at City Hall.

Misty Vigil also expressed thanks to her supporters. “I wish I could have won for y’all. You all deserve to be represented and that’s all I want to accomplish,” said Vigil. In a separate post, she jokingly stated that her next move is to run for President.

As of writing, it does not appear Gabriel McHenry-Herrera has posted about the results. However, he did tell The Amarillo Pioneer ahead of the results that, should he have gone to a runoff with Tipps, he would have conceded.

City Council Place 3

Councilman-elect Tom Scherlen expressed thanks and stated he “will try to represent each and every citizen.”

Katt Massey said that election day “was beautiful even though the outcome was not what we’d hoped for.” Massey further stated that she hopes “that the new council will represent ALL of Amarillo.” She also left open the possibility of running again, stating that she “is not done” and that “2025 is just around the corner.”

As of writing, John Adair had not posted publicly about the results.

City Council Place 4

First-place finisher Les Simpson expressed gratitude. He noted that, while he finished in first place, he is headed to a runoff. “I’m grateful to the many people who voted for me and I appreciate your continued support,” said Simpson. “Would you please leave your yard sign up until the runoff in June?”

Second-place finisher Claudette Smith expressed optimism about winning in a runoff, stating that “We can WIN this so long as we get everyone out to vote on June 24th and have the continued support we've had this whole race!” She also stated thanks to her supporters and implored those with yard signs to leave them “in place until the run off in June.”

John Ingerson stated that he was “humbled and grateful to have so many wonderful people” cross his path during the election. “The numbers didn't turn out as I was hoping but have no doubts God knows way more than I do as to what is best,” said Ingerson.

“I just want to take a moment to thanks each and everyone of you that supported me in this year election,” said Hobert “Gunny” Brown. “The cards just weren't in my favor. God Bless, and good night.” As for what’s next, Brown has indicated he plans on taking a motorcycle trip next month. “Right now I'm leaning toward doing a turn and burn to Memphis, Tennessee, or Lake Charles, Louisiana.”