The results of a closely contested runoff mayoral election in Charleston saw incumbent Mayor John Tecklenburg defeated by Republican challenger William Cogswell. Tecklenburg, seeking his third term, conceded defeat to Cogswell, a 48-year-old real estate developer and former Statehouse representative, after a hard-fought campaign. Cogswell secured his victory with 51 percent of the votes across the city, gaining substantial support in Berkeley County and the Cainhoy area, which ultimately resulted in ballot advantage of 569 votes, enough to avoid an automatic recount.
Shortly after Tecklenburg’s concession speech at his Election Night watch party, Cogswell expressed his excitement for the city’s future. “The people have spoken and we’re ready for a new direction,” said Cogswell, who will officially take up the mayor’s office in January, commending the outgoing mayor for his dedication and service to the city. Despite his defeat, Tecklenburg remained optimistic, thanking his campaign and city workers, and encouraging his voters to support Mayor Cogswell, stating that when “Mayor Cogswell succeeds, Charleston succeeds.”
The race was closely contested, with Cogswell and Tecklenburg often trading the front-runner position throughout the night. The election hinged on several major issues that could shape the city’s future; included flooding, public safety, tourism, and how to handle the city’s growing population. The city’s official transition of mayoral power will take place in January, ushering in a new era under Mayor William Cogswell – the first Republican to secure the Charleston Mayor’s office since 1877.
