El Paso's Crucial Election Day: What You Need to Know!

As the sun rises over El Paso County, voters are gearing up to make their voices heard in pivotal local races. The polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., with 116 convenient voting centers scattered throughout the county. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the key races and propositions on today’s ballot.

Mayoral Race: Who Will Lead El Paso?

In a highly competitive race for the mayoralty, eight candidates are vying for the position, including three current city representatives:

• Renard U. Johnson, Businessman
• Cassandra Hernandez, City Representative
• Brian Kennedy, City Representative and Attorney
• Isabel Salcido, City Representative, Realtor, and Business Owner
• Marco Antonio Contreras, Restaurant Owner
• Steven B. Winters, Army Retiree
• Elizabeth Cordova, Magazine Owner
• Ben Mendoza, Mediator

With a mix of backgrounds and experiences, this race has the potential to shape the future of El Paso. Candidates have been actively engaging with the community, and their campaign activities have drawn considerable attention.

District Attorney Race: Tough Decisions Ahead

The contest for the District Attorney in the 34th Judicial District is heating up, with Republican incumbent Bill Hicks facing off against Democrat James Montoya, a Deputy Public Defender.

Both candidates are prioritizing the controversial Walmart shooting case, but they have differing views on how to proceed:

• Bill Hicks supports a jury decision on sentencing.
• James Montoya advocates for the death penalty.

This race not only highlights the candidates' legal philosophies but also the broader implications for justice in our community.

Key Propositions on the Ballot

UMC Medical Bond

Voters will decide on a significant $396.6 million bond aimed at upgrading the University Medical Center. If approved, this funding would enhance facilities, including:

• A new burn center
• Expanded bed capacity
• Additional operating rooms

For homeowners with an average property value of $200,000, this bond could add approximately $70 to annual property taxes.

County Quality of Life Bond

The county is also proposing a $323.8 million bond, with voters asked to weigh in on several propositions:

• Parks and recreation improvements
• A new medical examiner’s office
• Courthouse upgrades
• Renovation of the County Coliseum
• A new animal shelter

If all propositions are approved, this bond would add about $60 annually in property taxes for an average $200,000 home. Combined with the UMC bond, homeowners could see a tax increase of over $130 per year.

For more details, check out our 2024 Voter Guide.

What do you think?

• Which mayoral candidate do you believe has the best vision for El Paso's future?
• Do you support the death penalty in the Walmart shooting case?
• How do you feel about the proposed tax increases for the UMC and County Quality of Life bonds?
• What do you think should be prioritized in the city’s budget: healthcare, infrastructure, or public safety?
• Are you optimistic about the impact these elections will have on the community?

Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation! Your vote matters, and so does your voice!