Springville Mayor Dave Thomas was ousted by voters Tuesday in the landslide election of challenger Austin Phillips.
Out of a total of 1,660 votes, Philips received 1,069 votes. Thomas only received 137. A third challenger, Russell Starnes, received 59 votes.
Thomas ran for Alabama governor in 2022, when he told 1819 News he was a free-market economist and he smoked pot. He remained mayor of Springville after losing out in his gubernatorial bid. He went on to champion recreational marijuana, even hosting 420 events, such as the "420 Fest" in St. Clair County.
Thomas remained transparent about his activities and vowed to remain honest.
Tensions have caused a rift between Thomas and several council members during live-streamed meetings, with either Thomas or the council walking out. Issues include the mayor's openness about his support for marijuana and the mayoral salary.
Phillips ran a successful campaign based on building "a stronger, more vibrant future."
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