For New Port Richey Mayor Chopper Davis and Port Richey Mayor John Eric Hoover, a new term offers an opportunity to continue the work already underway while shaping the future of their cities.
Voters in the Pasco County communities reelected the incumbent mayors on April 14, with both winning by significant margins.
“I believe voters were sending a message that they want steady progress and continued focus on the future of Port Richey,” Hoover said. “More than anything, I think they want leadership that stays focused on results and keeps the city moving forward.”
Unofficial election results show Hoover won with just over 61% of the vote, or 263 of the 429 votes cast, against challenger Linda Rodriguez.
Over in New Port Richey, Davis faced three competitors in the mayor’s race — Marlowe Jones, Daisy Thomas and Kelly Mothershead Timmons. Davis garnered about 43% of the 1,490 votes cast, with Jones getting 22.5%, Thomas receiving 19.6% and Timmons garnering 14.9%.
Before Davis was elected mayor in 2023, he served on New Port Richey’s City Council for nine years. He said his goal has been to show businesses that they can be successful in New Port Richey by reinvigorating downtown and the surrounding area. Over the years, Davis says the city has worked on revitalizing U.S. 19 as well, especially south of Main Street.
As he embarks upon a new term, Davis said he wants to focus on revitalizing U.S. 19 north of Main Street, as well as Massachusetts Avenue.
“We still have work to do,” Davis said.
Economic development, infrastructure improvements and plans for the historic Schwettman Education Center will remain key focus areas in the coming years, he said while emphasizing transparency and a willingness to hear ideas as part of his leadership.
“I have an open-door policy,” Davis said. “There’s nothing to hide.”
Hoover says the election reflected a desire for unity in his community.
“People want their local government working together, staying professional, and focusing on what brings the community together rather than what divides it,” he said.
Hoover said regardless of how Port Richey residents voted, he represents everyone.
“That responsibility doesn’t change and I will continue to listen, stay accessible and make decisions based on what’s best for the entire community,” he said. “Good ideas can come from anyone, and respectful differences of opinion are part of a healthy local government.”
Hoover said now that the Port Richey election is over, his focus is fully back on governing.
“My priority is continued forward progress for the city, maintaining momentum and making sure we are responsibly planning for the future,” he said.
Marlowe Jones, who finished second to Davis in the New Port Richey mayor’s race, said his campaign was never about one election, and instead on building a movement centered on community voices. He said he plans to run for New Port Richey City Council next year.
“I believe there is still important work to be done, and I remain committed to serving this community in whatever capacity I can to make the greatest impact,” Jones said.