Voters Speak Out on Mayoral Races

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West Columbia, S.C. (WOLO) — Whether you’re a new resident or have been living locally for decades, voting is not only a right, it’s a civic duty. West Columbia Resident Rachel Thomason explains,”These are the people making the decisions that are in your neighborhoods and effect everything that you see and do.” As chief in command, voters say electing a suitable mayor is pivotal to having an efficient local government. According to Annette Guilfoyle,”They’re going to set the tone for all city employees who are our employees.” West Columbia’s crowded mayoral ballot boasts 4 candidates. Archie Ard, Madison Duncan and Bobby Horton will face off against controversial incumbent Mayor Joe Owens. “He’s had several conflicts with the council we’ve got this new thing that’s flared up, that he’s used words that were not properly to be used. It has certainly put negative publicity on the mayor’s office,” says West Columbia Resident Douglas Self. Despite the alleged controversy, many West Columbia residents say they’re just looking for change. Thomason tells ABC Columbia, “I just really want to make sure that the people in charge know what they’re doing.” This feeling is echoed by voters in Irmo as they also, decide who will fill the town’s mayoral seat. Councilman Paul Younginer will go head to head against Mayor Hardy King, who is seeking re-election just months after an investigation into the finances of the town’s Okra Strut Festival. “You’re have that in any race, somebody is going to have a controversy in any race. You just have to read through the candidates, what they say and then form your own opinion,” explains Jim Hawk. And according to voters voicing that opinion is far more important than whether your candidate wins or looses.