With all precincts reporting, challengers Willis Thompson and Vickie Bailey finished on top in Tuesday’s municipal election in Vicksburg, defeating the incumbents, Mayor George Flaggs Jr. and Ward 2 Alderman Alex Monsour, respectively.

Tuesday’s numbers gave Thompson a narrow, 61-vote victory over Flaggs. Thompson finished the day with 1,770, or 44%, with Flaggs finishing with 1,709 votes, or 42%. Mayoral candidate Kasman Massey finished with 546 votes, or 14%.

Bailey topped Monsour by 75 votes in another tight race, garnering 1,089 votes, or 52%, to his 1,014 votes, or 48%.

Thompson said he is thankful to the voters and eager to get to work once all numbers become official.

“Thank you for your trust in me to lead the city of Vicksburg,” Thompson said. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve the city of Vicksburg. It’s about service more than anything.”

Bailey called Tuesday’s victory a dream come true.

“I am overwhelmed,” she said. “Vicksburg: All I can say is get ready. This is a long time overdue. It has manifested. I say it’s nobody but God. My heart is for Vicksburg.”

Vicksburg City Clerk Deborah Kaiser-Nickson said results will remain unofficial until 111 affidavits are counted, along with any mail-in votes received and postmarked by Tuesday, June 3.

Vicksburg Mayor George Flaggs, Jr. commented on Tuesday’s unofficial election results.

“Today, Vicksburg residents cast their votes in a closely contested general election,” Flaggs said. “While the initial results are in, absentee ballots are still being counted. I remain hopeful and, above all, I am keeping my faith.

“For the past 12 years, I have had the honor of serving the people of Vicksburg. We have worked hard together to strengthen public safety, revitalize our downtown, invest in infrastructure, and create opportunities for our youth and families. I am proud of the progress we’ve made and the partnerships we’ve built. Regardless of the final outcome, my commitment to this city and its people will not waver. I thank every voter who participated in this election and everyone who continues to believe in the future of Vicksburg.

“We are a resilient city. We are a strong city. And we are a city worth fighting for. I ask for your continued prayers, your patience as the absentee ballots are counted, and your continued belief in the future of this great city we all call home.”