Benjamin Buckner, a candidate for the Ward 2 at-large seat on the Henderson City Council, announced Wednesday afternoon that he is suspending his campaign and endorsing incumbent Ward 2 at-large Council member Lamont Noel in the upcoming municipal election.
Noel joined Buckner for the announcement and thanked Buckner for his support. Noel shared the following statement:
“I want to thank Mr. Buckner for his endorsement, but primarily for his decision to support a path that brings us all together, working together for the citizens of Henderson. I sincerely accept this endorsement and support, hoping and believing that others will work with me to help heal our city by putting people first rather than party or politics.”
Buckner said he looks forward to continuing his role in Henderson, “creating a bigger presence and supporting candidates who prioritize unity and progress for Henderson.”
Buckner said he and Noel “share a united vision for Henderson. Remaining in the race is selfish on my part and would unfairly split votes that Mr. Noel needs to secure re-election and continue the work on behalf of the city.”
Buckner continued by saying that once Noel filed for re-election and challenger George Mayo entered the contest, “it was a concern of mine that we were going to split votes.”
“Mr. Noel’s job at City Hall is not finished and it would be selfish of me to stay in the race when we share a common set of goals and ideals for the city. While I am committed to seeing Henderson move forward, it is not my time to serve on the Council…I wholeheartedly urge citizens of Henderson to vote for Lamont Noel.”
Citing divisiveness and the climate at City Hall as factors that are hindering progress within the city, Buckner said Noel is “currently best positioned to carry my vision forward.”
Buckner noted three core values included in his campaign were respect, revitalization and a path forward – values that Noel also stands for and supports. Buckner said he is confident that Noel will continue to strive for respect for the city and its residents and the responsibility of the council members; work for revitalization by advancing real change through downtown improvements, and responsible growth of the tax base to ease burdens on homeowners and fostering a cleaner stronger city image; and finding a path forward “to ending the division and in-fighting at City Hall and to allow employees and leaders to work effectively on behalf of the city.”
“This is a decision that I landed on with the statement that those who want respect, give respect,” Buckner stated.
