Powalinsky Wins Three-Way Race for Mayor
Incumbent Mayor Defeats Two Challengers
Race Comes to Close in Odessa
Incumbent Odessa Mayor Martin Powalinsky has won a third term in office, defeating two challengers in a three-way race. Powalinsky received 55% of the vote, while his closest challenger, City Council member Brandon Eastman, received 35%. A third candidate, local business owner Jesse Davis, received 10% of the vote.
Powalinsky, a Democrat, has served as mayor since 2018. He is a lifelong resident of Odessa and has a long history of public service. Before becoming mayor, he served on the City Council for six years.
In his victory speech, Powalinsky thanked his supporters and pledged to continue working hard for the people of Odessa. "I am humbled by the trust that you have placed in me," he said. "I will continue to work every day to make Odessa a better place for all of us."
Eastman, a Republican, congratulated Powalinsky on his victory and said he would continue to work to improve the city. "I am proud of the campaign we ran and the issues we raised," he said. "I will continue to be a voice for the people of Odessa on the City Council."
Davis, an independent, said he was grateful for the opportunity to run for mayor and thanked his supporters. "I am proud of the campaign we ran and the issues we raised," he said. "I will continue to be involved in the community and work to make Odessa a better place."
The mayoral election was one of the most closely watched races in Odessa in recent years. Powalinsky's victory is a sign of his continued popularity in the city. He will face a number of challenges in his third term, including the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the city's budget deficit.