Bill Bishop concedes but could still be a factor

Jacksonville mayoral candidate Bill Bishop thanked his supporters for their unwavering support after he fell short of making the runoff for the May General Election.

Supporters were chanting “We love Bill!” as Bishop received only about 17 percent of the vote, well behind Democratic Mayor Alvin Brown and former Republican State Party Chair Lenny Curry.

Bishop said, “The voters have spoken tonight so that is what it is. It’s been a wild ride. I’m certainly glad I did it. I think our message resonated with a lot of folks and in the long run it’s going to change the dynamics of the city.”

Both Brown and Curry expect to make a pitch for Bishop voters to support their campaigns in the May 19 election.

Bishop wouldn’t show his hand but did say an announcement from his campaign could be expected in the coming days.

“We’re just going to evaluate our options and we’ll just get back to everybody on that,” he said.