MCALLEN, Texas (KVEO)—The five candidates for McAllen mayor had their first debate in a live-streamed presentation on Wednesday.
Second city commissioner announces run for McAllen mayor
The McAllen election will take place on Saturday, May 1. Currently, the mayoral candidates scheduled to attend include Michael Fallek, Dr. Shahid Rashid, Javier Villalobos, Verónica Vela Whitacre, and Othal Brand, Jr.
Among the topics discussed, was he influx of asylum-seekers, whom U.S. Border Patrol officials are releasing daily into South Texas.
The five candidates each were asked if they were elected mayor what they feel their role should be as a spike in immigration in the region is affecting the city and its resources.
McAllen mayoral candidates weigh in on immigration influx during debate
In December, McAllen Mayor Jim Darling said he was not planning to run for re-election.
“I’ve served the @CityofMcAllen for 43 years and I’ve made the difficult decision to step down as Mayor.” said Darling in a statement via Twitter, “I will not seek re-election after my term expires in May. I’ve had 8 great years as Mayor of the best city in the world, in my humble opinion.”
This year will mark Darling’s 43rd year of service to the City of McAllen as the city attorney, assistant city manager, city commission and Mayor.
In 2017, Darling won re-election. Darling defeated challenger Othal E. Brand Jr. by receiving 57% of the votes.
Those interested individuals in watching the debate, may do so on this story.
Watch the complete debate here:
