The race for Amarillo’s Councilmember Place Three is heading into a runoff after the April 2025 election, with current councilman Tom Scherlen securing 47% of the vote, while challenger David Prescott earned 45%. Since neither candidate managed to win the required 50% plus one vote, the race will go into a runoff, giving voters another chance to decide who will represent them on the Amarillo City Council.
What is a Runoff Election?
A runoff election occurs when no candidate receives an outright majority of the vote in the initial election. In Amarillo’s case, candidates need more than 50% of the vote to win. Since both Scherlen and Prescott fell short, a runoff will determine the winner. This second election gives voters a clear choice between the top two contenders.
A Closer Look at the Candidates
Tom Scherlen, the incumbent councilman, has served Amarillo in various capacities and has built a reputation for his commitment to working hard for the citizens of Amarillo. Prior to the election, Scherlen emphasized his dedication to finding answers and solutions for local residents. He remains confident and focused on the path ahead, encouraging his supporters to stay engaged for the final push toward election day.
"This is our core group, and I need y’all to hang on for six weeks and we’ll have a good ending to this election," Scherlen said. His words reflect a continued commitment to the city and a belief that his leadership will resonate with voters as the runoff approaches.
On the other hand, David Prescott, who came in a close second, is not backing down. Prescott’s vision for Amarillo includes fostering unity among the citizens, an idea that has become central to his campaign. He expressed hope that the city could come together, bridging divides and focusing on what will move Amarillo forward. Prescott believes that collaboration and a unified council are essential for the city’s progress.
"Going into the runoff, it is my prayer for Amarillo that we can have unity, that we can bridge the anger on both sides and really what is going to move Amarillo forward is going to be a city council that is unified in a shared mission in getting things done," Prescott shared with us.
A Six-Week Campaign Sprint
With the runoff set to take place in about six weeks, both candidates will be working hard to connect with voters and make their case for leadership. For Prescott, the work begins immediately. He’s focused on doubling his efforts and intensifying his campaign in the coming weeks to ensure that his message of unity and progress resonates with more of the Amarillo electorate.
For Scherlen, the next six weeks will be about keeping momentum going, rallying his supporters, and continuing the hard work he’s been doing since he first took office. As the incumbent, Scherlen will likely focus on highlighting his achievements and plans for the city, while also responding to questions and concerns from the public.
Voter Engagement is Key
With the race now entering its final stretch, voter engagement is more important than ever. For Amarilloans, this runoff presents an opportunity to reflect on the issues that matter most to them—whether it’s the direction of the city’s development, fiscal responsibility, public safety, or fostering a sense of community and unity.
Both candidates are calling for a unified city council, but their paths to achieving that goal may differ. As the runoff approaches, it will be up to the voters to decide who they believe is best equipped to lead Amarillo into the future.
Looking Ahead
The next few weeks will be pivotal for both Scherlen and Prescott. The runoff election is not just about who has more resources or a larger base of support—it’s about connecting with the people of Amarillo and showing that they have a clear vision for the city's future. For voters, it’s an opportunity to weigh the candidates’ ideas, values, and approach to leadership.
As Scherlen and Prescott head into the runoff, one thing is clear: Amarillo’s future is at stake, and the city will soon have a chance to choose the leader they believe can best represent them in the years ahead. Whether it’s through building unity, finding solutions, or forging a new path forward, the next six weeks will be crucial in determining who will serve as the next councilmember for Place Three.
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