Councilman Fred Richardson talks about what's next for him

MOBILE COUNTY, Ala. (WPMI) — Fred Richardson, District 1 Councilman will soon say his farewell after nearly 25 years of service to the City of Mobile.

“I think if it had not been for COVID we would have seen a different result in the election,” he said.

Richardson who made a run for mayor of the City of Mobile picked up 21 percent of the vote, losing to incumbent Sandy Stimpson. The councilman said low voter turnout Tuesday is the reason he lost by more than 14,000 votes. He was banking on senior citizens to put him over the top.

"That group yesterday was fearful of coming out, that a greater thing would happen to them if they came out,” Councilman Richardson said.

After a disappointing loss, Richardson is thinking about his next move. He’s planning to finish writing three books. One about his family roots in Conecuh County.

“I probably will write about my almost 25 of experience here on the city council, what I found, what we changed,” Richardson said.

Richardson will soon pass the baton to a new councilmember. He said that person needs to be ready to lead and fight for the community.

"I hope that the person who takes my place will take the baton and march forward. That is my hope. We don't lose any process in terms of leadership," he said.

There will be a runoff election between Cory Penn and Herman Thomas for Richardson’s seat in October. Richardson said he will endorse one of the candidates in due time.