Rep. Eric Johnson Finishes First, Advances to June Runoff in Mayor’s Race

DALLAS — State Rep. Eric Johnson received the most votes among nine candidates Saturday and will now compete in a June 8 runoff to determine the next Mayor of Dallas.

“I am humbled by the support I received from voters in every part of Dallas,” Johnson said. “Over the next five weeks, I will continue to visit with voters about my record in public service, my vision for the future, and my plan to overcome the divisiveness that has plagued City Hall.”

With all precincts reporting, Johnson received 16,374 votes, which was more than any other candidate for Mayor.

“The residents of Dallas had many good choices in this election, and I want to thank all of the candidates who stepped forward and offered their service to our great city,” Johnson said. “I look forward to visiting with voters who supported someone else in the first round and earning their vote in the runoff.”

Johnson was the last candidate to enter the race for Mayor when he announced his candidacy in January. In a short period of time and while serving in a legislative session, he put together one of the most diverse coalitions of supporters in Dallas history.

“I remain committed to fully representing and fighting for our community in the Texas House of Representatives,” Johnson said. “I have proven that I can run an energetic, highly successful campaign for Mayor during a legislative session, and that’s what I will continue to do. I am grateful that my family and my supporters have allowed me to carry out these two critical responsibilities at the same time throughout this campaign and I look forward to the work ahead.”

The son of a former Dallas police officer, Johnson grew up in Dallas and returned to his hometown immediately upon completing his formal education. He received his bachelor’s degree with honors from Harvard University in 1998 as well as a law degree from the University of Pennsylvania Law School and a master’s degree from Princeton University’s Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs, both in 2003.

Johnson has represented Dallas-based District 100 in the Texas House of Representatives since 2010. He has been a leading voice for expanding access to early childhood education, fighting public corruption, funding much-needed street repairs, and improving public safety.

Johnson has been a practicing lawyer in Dallas for the past fifteen years. He and his wife, Nikki, have two sons, William and George.