Daniel Rickenmann Secures Second Term as Columbia Mayor with Commanding Victory
- CUBNSC
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By Javar Juarez | CUBNSC | November 4, 2025
Columbia, SC – Daniel J. Rickenmann has won reelection as Mayor of Columbia, capturing a decisive 61.53% of the vote over challenger Jessica S. Thomas, who earned 32.35%, according to official results showing all counties reporting. Wade Fulmer Jr. received 5.53%, while write-in candidates accounted for less than one percent of ballots cast. In total, 15,262 votes were recorded.
The victory underscores strong voter confidence in Daniel Rickenmann’s leadership and his administration’s vision for Columbia’s growth and revitalization.
Daniel Rickenmann: A Celebration of Progress and Partnership
In his election night remarks, Rickenmann expressed gratitude to his supporters, campaign team, and fellow candidates, emphasizing the democratic spirit that defined the race.
“It takes a lot of guts to run,” he said, thanking Thomas and Fulmer for their participation. “They did it in the spirit of democracy, and that’s a great thing.”
Rickenmann reflected on the accomplishments of his first term, citing major investments in Columbia’s riverfront, neighborhoods, and public safety. He highlighted “record growth across all lines” and noted a “double-digit decline in crime.” The mayor also praised city employees and community partners for their role in those achievements.
Looking Ahead: Housing, Development, and Economic Expansion
The mayor previewed an ambitious agenda for his second term. Among upcoming initiatives are the opening of a new Central Park, expansion of the riverfront trail system, and downtown construction projects along Main and Laurel Streets. Columbia is also slated to host the Korn Ferry Tour, a professional golf event that Rickenmann says will showcase the city to a national audience.
Economic growth remains a cornerstone of his vision. “We did a billion dollars last year,” Rickenmann said, referencing the city’s record in development investment. “We’re on track to do a billion and a half this year. We’re doing it because we’re thinking creatively, marketing, and bringing people to this city.”
Peter Brown, the city’s head of economic development, received a special acknowledgment for his role in achieving those milestones.
A Focus on Housing and Homelessness
When asked about his top priorities moving forward, Rickenmann pointed to the city’s ongoing housing challenges. “First 90 days, focus on our unsheltered and our housing—number one issue we’ve got to tackle,” he said. He cited partnerships like the Rapid Shelter initiative and the Hope Center as models that can guide new solutions.
The mayor reaffirmed his commitment to turning “2,100 empty lots into homes” and creating attainable housing options for residents across Columbia.
Optimism and a Vision for the Next Four Years
Rickenmann closed his remarks with optimism and resolve.
“Tomorrow, I get up and go to work knowing I’ve got four years to complete all these things we want to get done,” he said. “We’re going to keep our staff busy, keep our city growing, and keep Columbia moving forward.”
With his decisive win, Rickenmann now looks to build on the foundation of his first term—continuing to shape Columbia into what he describes as “the best place to live, work, and raise your family.”
Council Races: Brown, Lumpkin, and Johnson Headed to Runoffs
Several City Council races remain undecided and will head to runoff elections in two weeks.
With all precincts reporting, Peter Brown led the at-large council race with 47% of the vote. Julie Lumpkin followed with 30%, and Ashley McCall received 24%. Since no candidate surpassed the 50% threshold, Brown and Lumpkin will face off in a runoff election.
In the At Large race, Sam Johnson held a narrow lead with 7,146 votes to incumbent Aditi Bussells’ 6,514. However, Johnson’s 47% share also fell short of the majority required to avoid a runoff. The two will meet again on November 18.
Meanwhile, incumbent Tina Herbert secured another term on council based on unofficial results, earning 63% of the vote to challenger Christa Williams’ 37%.