Powers leads Rochester mayor race by 692 votes

Joe Powers narrowly defeated Dr. Jess Garcia to become Rochester, Minnesota’s next mayor, winning about 50.5% of the vote in a race decided by fewer than 700 votes; results remain unofficial pending the city canvass. Powers credited affordability as a central concern for voters and said affordable housing, including more single-family homes and apartments, would be his first priority. Garcia said the close result showed strong support for an alternative and pledged to stay engaged in community work. Rochester’s incumbent City Council members also won reelection, giving Powers continuity as he prepares to take office in January, when Kim Norton’s term ends.