Kirk Watson Leads Austin Mayor Election Results

Incumbent Kirk Watson is narrowly leading the Austin mayoral race with 50.01% of the vote, aiming to avoid a runoff against Carmen Llanes Pulido, who trails with 20.1%. Watson's reelection would solidify his position as he addresses key issues like housing affordability and police staffing. Meanwhile, in Watsonville, incumbent Jimmy Dutra has a slight lead in the District 6 city council race with 52.1% of the votes, despite being found liable for sexual abuse earlier this year. His opponent, Trina Coffman-Gomez, has pledged to focus on homelessness and public transportation improvements. The election results for both races are still unofficial, with further ballots being counted in Austin and a post-disposition hearing scheduled for Dutra's case in Watsonville. The outcomes reflect ongoing challenges in local governance and community priorities.