Johnston wins Denver mayor's race as progressives lose key seats
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Denver mayoral candidates Kelly Brough, left, and Mike Johnston, right, take part in a debate in Denver. Photo: by Helen H. Richardson/Denver Post via Getty Images
Denver voters cast ballots in the June 6 runoff election to decide the city's next mayor and three outstanding council seats.
Why it matters: The next mayor is the first new face in 12 years, succeeding outgoing Mayor Michael Hancock, while the council contests will determine the extent of progressive political power in the city.
Editor's note: Coverage has concluded for this liveblog.
Addressing a packed and chanting crowd, Johnston made his first public speech as the mayor-elect of Denver just after 10:30pm at Union Station.
What they're saying: "This race was about a big vision for what's possible for Denver," Johnston told supporters.
- "We can build a city that is big enough to keep all of us safe, to house all of us, to support all of us — that is our dream of Denver," he said.
Of note: Johnston said he received a call from Brough, who conceded and wished him the best ahead. He credited her for her work on the campaign trail and called her "deeply committed" to the city's future.
What's next: Johnston will be sworn into office on July 17.
Mike Johnston is Denver's next mayor, cruising to victory in Tuesday's runoff election with support from a coalition of progressives and $5 million in outside spending from national big-money donors.
- He stood at 54%, about 10,700 votes ahead of Kelly Brough, the longtime CEO of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce, according to preliminary election results at 10pm.
- Brough conceded just minutes after the third batch of results rolled in, wishing Johnston "Godspeed" at her watch party at ReelWorks.
Why it matters: Johnston takes office at a time of great turmoil for the state's largest city, where homelessness is rising and affordability is reaching a breaking point.
What's next: The former state senator is expected to make his acceptance speech shortly at his watch party at Union Station.