Taylor running ahead in Mesa recall election

Dorean Taylor led the Mesa recall election against Councilwoman Julie Spilsbury, receiving 52.78% of the votes in initial tallies from nearly 16,000 ballots. The recall petition emerged shortly after Spilsbury's re-election, targeting her votes on issues like an emergency homeless shelter and utility rate increases. Spilsbury argued that the recall was a product of partisan politics, bolstered by a conservative advocacy group. Both candidates actively campaigned outside polling places, with Taylor expressing gratitude for her campaign support. Spilsbury highlighted her diverse coalition of volunteers, including both Republicans and Democrats. Resident JoAnne Robbins, who initiated the recall, criticized Spilsbury's votes that she deemed detrimental to the community. The recall effort garnered over 5,000 signatures, with 3,858 verified as qualified voters. Spilsbury vowed to fulfill her responsibilities until the election results are officially certified.