There are a lot of people who are energized by this race now, some who have had longstanding opinions about Tom DeLay.

Tom DeLay has never had any trouble attracting the big-money special interests.

Anyone who chooses to do anything that alters the outcome of the positions in this race or in the Chase, we will act quickly and severely, ... If we see anyone attempting to manipulate the outcome of this race, the Chase, or any race from here on out, we will handle it. You've never seen that here, and you never will.

While the impact of endorsements is somewhat suspect, in a close three-way race like this, the third-place candidate could exercise influence and impact.

People who don't know me have opinions about me. That's the part that's very hurtful. Because how do you form an opinion about somebody if you've never met them or spent any time with them? So it's all based upon hearsay or things that they've read.

I was astonished that five council people would put their opinions above the 7,000 people who voted to have two-year terms starting in 2004, ... As mayor, I'll abide by the decision of the council, but I am also a private citizen and a constituent of John Garner, and I will defend my right to vote in May 2006.