Looks Like a Long Night in District 8

Early results show there will be a long night in the city of San Diego’s District 8.

Just 158 votes separated first from fourth place in the race. David Alvarez, a staffer for state Sen. Denise Ducheny, led with 21.61 percent of the vote. B.D. Howard, who had a strong ground game, was second at 18.55 percent, followed by Felipe Hueso at 18.51 percent and Nick Inzunza at 18.13 percent.

This result was seen as most important for Howard, who didn’t have the money to compare with his three other main rivals. Advertisements from his opponents hit voter mailboxes in the last couple weeks and were expected to affect those who voted on Election Day. This data shows Howard hanging with the pack.

In other city elections, the Republican and Democratic choices to replace termed-out District 6 City Councilwoman Donna Frye, Lorie Zapf and Howard Wayne respectively, look headed for a runoff. Zapf, who benefited from a strong push by the local Republican Party, led the race with 35.45 percent with Wayne behind her at 26.54 percent. Steve Hadley, Frye’s chief of staff and endorsed candidate, trailed with 16.43 percent.

Incumbent Councilmen Kevin Faulconer and Tony Young each held huge leads in their races. Faulconer had 62.44 percent of the vote, leading challenger Patrick Finucane’s 22.63 percent. Young had 63.78 percent leading his opponent Barry Pollard who had 35.99 percent.

The ballot proposition to make the city’s strong mayor form of government permanent looked to be cruising to victory with 60.46 percent in favor. That’s a far cry from when it first passed in 2004 with only 51 percent of the vote.

The next results aren’t expected until 9:30 at the earliest.

— LIAM DILLON