In a text message a few minutes ago, former state representative and city council representative, Joe Pickett told us today that he will not be running for the open mayoral seat. There had been speculation that Pickett would run.
In a prepared statement, Pickett wrote that the “City of El Paso leadership has become a huge disappointment.” Pickett added that the city government “does not have your and my best interest in mind,” adding that he “just won a big lawsuit.”
Pickett was referring to the lawsuit he won last week where the judge ruled that the environmental franchise fee the city charges “is unconstitutional and should be discontinued.”
In his statement to us, Pickett added “there is more to uncover” with city issues and for that “and other reasons, many people are willing to support my run for Mayor.”
Pickett concluded that “even with all the advantage of experience, a proven record…I have decided not to run” for mayor.
He added that of the announced candidates for mayor, “three are part of the problem,” and one he “really does not know.” Pickett closed with, “I, for one, will continue to demand straight answers and hold them accountable.” Pickett did not name the “problem” candidates.
As of the time of this article, there are nine announced candidates running for mayor. They are city representatives Cassandra Hernandez, Brian Kennedy and Isabel Salcido. Also Jacob Chavira, Marco Antonio Contreras, Elizabeth Cordova, Roberto Ryan Houle, Renard Johnson and Steve Winters.
Today is the last day to file to run for mayor and several open city council seats.