Houston's first openly-gay elected official Annise Parker (D) has just become the first lesbian mayor of a major US city. The former City Controller beat former City Attorney Gene Locke (D) in a long awaited run-off election, today.

Although both candidates are Democrats, Parker was popular with voters because she has over 20 years of experience in politics and has a financial plan that, many believe, can help Houston in this difficult economic climate.

Unfortunately, Parker was subjected to numerous homophobic remarks during her candidacy. Conservative activist Steven Hotze sent out a mailer telling voters they should vote for Locke because Parker was endorsed by Houston's GLBT Caucus. Locke drew criticism for seeking the endorsement of Hotze, who is notorious for being anti-gay.

Houston's first openly-gay elected official Annise Parker (D) has just become the first lesbian mayor of a major US city. The former City Controller beat former City Attorney Gene Locke (D) in a long awaited run-off election, today.

Although both candidates are Democrats, Parker was popular with voters because she has over 20 years of experience in politics and has a financial plan that, many believe, can help Houston in this difficult economic climate.

Unfortunately, Parker was subjected to numerous homophobic remarks during her candidacy. Conservative activist Steven Hotze sent out a mailer telling voters they should vote for Locke because Parker was endorsed by Houston's GLBT Caucus. Locke drew criticism for seeking the endorsement of Hotze, who is notorious for being anti-gay.

With 92% of the vote counted, Annise Parker and Gene Locke have been predicted winners by the Houston Chronicle and will face each other in a Dec. 10 runoff.

Parker received 30% of the vote. Locke had 25%. Peter Brown, who self-financed his campaign and spent over $3.5 million, was third with 22% of the vote.

More about this and other elections in the Friday Dallas Voice.

With 92% of the vote counted, Annise Parker and Gene Locke have been predicted winners by the Houston Chronicle and will face each other in a Dec. 10 runoff.

Parker received 30% of the vote. Locke had 25%. Peter Brown, who self-financed his campaign and spent over $3.5 million, was third with 22% of the vote.

More about this and other elections in the Friday Dallas Voice.