District 7: Cosden, Barrier advance
Jessica Cosden and Timothy Barrier will face off in the Nov. 5 general election after they earned the top two positions in the District 7 primary on Tuesday.
Cosden handily came in on top with 46.2 percent of the vote, more than 16 percentage points ahead of second place Barrier, who got a shade over 30 percent of the vote.
“It’s very encouraging and I feel confident going forward that I’ll make it through the general election,” Cosden said as she celebrated at Dixie Roadhouse. “I’m encouraged by the turnout (just over 12 percent). It was amazing.”
“I think a second-place finish is pretty good. I’ve been out since Feb. 18 meeting people and sharing my thoughts and philosophy for Cape Coral,” Barrier said. “It’s resonating in different areas and now I’m looking forward to the next six weeks.”
Sam Fisher saw his hopes for city council end, finishing third with 23.74 percent of the vote. Despite the defeat, he was very pleased with his and his opponents’ campaigns.
“I thought with the amount of time I’ve been here I ran a great campaign. I appreciate the people who supported me and I look forward to help out in the future,” Fisher said while with supporters at Nevermind, moments after congratulating Cosden on her win.
Moving forward, Cosden, who has worked in journalism and marketing, will use that experience to her advantage by staying positive, as well as her lifelong residency in Cape Coral.
“I have a fresh perspective. Something new to offer. He’s already gone negative and I want to go positive,” Cosden said.
Barrier concedes he has some work to do, but after spending almost no money on the primary campaign, he will strive to get his message out.
“I’ve been up close and personal with people. I haven’t done ads or direct mail. That was the strategy. Now, you’ll see me get out in the media,” Barrier said. “I’m just going to work harder.”