Republicans are searching for political momentum heading into the 2024 presidential election. A mix of wins and losses at the state level across the country has the GOP celebrating any wins.

Getting through to voters in long-held Democrat areas has been tough for Republicans in recent years. Urban areas have been particularly rough for the GOP with Democrats holding most offices in major cities.

On Tuesday the strength of the Democrat armor weakened when a Republican pulled off a narrow win in a seat held by Democrats for decades. The win was a point of celebration, and positive headlines, heading into the holiday season.

Former Republican representative William Cogswell took down incumbent Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg by 569 votes during a runoff election. Mayoral races are in the city are officially nonpartisan, but the city’s mayors since 1877 have all been Democrats.

From The Daily Wire:
“The people have spoken and we’re ready for a new direction,” Cogswell said. “A new direction that’s smart, safe, and sound. A new direction that puts our citizens and residents first.”

Cogswell, who was in the South Carolina House of Representatives from 2017-2022, said he wants the focus of that new direction to put aside labels aside in an effort to find solutions to problems.

This was a classic Blue vs. Red test in the election. Cogswell was endorsed by Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) while Tecklenburg found support from Rep. Jim Clyburn (D-SC). Tecklenburg conceded on election night. He previously won re-election in 2020 with more than 60% of the vote.

Despite a tough campaign, the mayor-elect was humbled by the voters’ choice.

“I wish John all the best. Nothing personal,” Cogswell said. “But I think it’s time for the next generation. I think it’s time for a new chapter in our city, and I’m excited to usher that in.”

Cogswell, describing himself as a moderate, focused on crime issues, Charleston’s fast population increase, and the city’s economic boom. He also criticized the incumbent for his handling of violent riots in 2020 and the mayor’s policies during the COVID pandemic.

This win might be an example of how to win in Democrat-controlled areas that Republicans could copy into next year.

Key Takeaways:

• Republican wins in southern city held by Democrats for decades.
• The GOP win flips the Democratic stronghold ahead of 2024 elections.
• New Republican mayor the “people have spoken” and want a new direction.

Source: The Daily Wire