Henderson Win's Columbus Mayoral Race; To become 70th Mayor of Columbus

COLUMBUS, GA: Voters in Columbus turned out on Tuesday to elect the leaders for the next term in Fountain City. One of the most watch races was the Columbus mayoral race. A race that was expected to be a neck and neck match between long time Columbus politician Berry "Skip" Henderson and businessman Zeph Baker. However, as polls have closed Henderson took 56% of the vote in the Fountain City and claimed victory without the need for a runoff.

Henderson collected a total of 13,481 votes or 56% of the vote. Baker claimed second place in the election and won 32% of the vote with 7,656 voters voting in favor of Baker. The race had four other candidates on the ballot. Local newcomer Danny Arencibia earned 5% of the vote with 1,140 votes. While Beth Harris claimed 1,006 votes or 4%. Charlie Roberts who was a very vocal candidate on social media earned 1% of the vote with 335 votes to be followed by Winfred Shipman with 278 votes also claiming 1%.

Through much of the election Henderson was seen as front runner in the race. Henderson has served in Columbus government for 21-years as a city councilman for District 10. Henderson who is a native of Columbus graduated from Columbus High School and Columbus College, now Columbus State University. During his campaign Henderson spoke on increased economic development in Columbus s well as enhancements in local law enforcement. Henderson was also a spoken candidate on Columbus' budget and being transparent. During his time on city council Henderson worked for six-years on the budget committee.

Henderson will replace two-term Columbus Mayor Teresa Tomlinson Henderson will become the 70th Mayor of Columbus when he takes office.