A Choice Between Conflict and Cooperation in District 9

The June 16 runoff election for the District 9 at-large seat is shaping up to be more than just a political contest. In many ways, it has become a referendum on the tone, direction and stability of the current Columbus City Council itself.

After Tuesday’s election, local dentist Dr. Cathy Cook and current Councilor John Anker emerged as the top two vote-getters, advancing to the runoff after neither candidate secured a majority vote.

Cook finished first with 13,389 votes, or 37.57%, followed closely by Anker with 12,316 votes, or 34.56%. Dr. Rocky Marsh received 6,715 votes, or 18.84%, while John Van Doorn earned 3,215 votes, or 9.02%.

What makes this runoff particularly telling is that both Dr. Rocky Marsh and Dr. John Van Doorn — former opponents in the race — have now pledged their support behind Dr. Cook. That move speaks volumes. It suggests that despite political differences during the campaign, there is a broader consensus forming around the need to restore balance, professionalism and civility to local government.

But this runoff is about far more than percentages.

It is about leadership style. It is about temperament. It is about whether Columbus wants continued political chaos or a return to professionalism and civility inside council chambers.

When the council voted 6-3 in March 2025 to appoint John Anker to the seat following the resignation of former Councilor Judy Thomas due to health concerns, many citizens hoped he would bring fresh energy and perspective to the council. Instead, what followed has become one of the most divisive periods in recent council history.

Since his appointment, Anker has frequently found himself at the center of confrontation, controversy and conflict. Meetings have often deteriorated into tension-filled exchanges that have distracted from the real work of governing and solving problems for the citizens of Columbus.

Perhaps the most revealing moment came not from a political opponent, but from Mayor Skip Henderson himself during a heated council exchange.

“Mr. Anker, you are, I think, the most reckless individual I have ever met,” the mayor said carefully but firmly. “I have never met anybody as arrogant as you, who makes this about themselves. You don’t know the process because you are a hired gun. You came in here for one reason. You did it. You got rid of the city manager. You don’t know how to hire people. All you know how to do is fire people.”

Those were not casual comments. They reflected growing frustration inside City Hall over the increasingly combative and disruptive atmosphere surrounding the current council.

Now voters must decide whether that is the direction they want to continue.

Supporters of Dr. Cook argue that she represents a calmer, more solutions-oriented approach focused on governance rather than confrontation. At a time when citizens are frustrated with political division nationally and locally, many voters appear to be searching for steady leadership rather than political theater.

Ultimately, the runoff may come down to a simple question: Does Columbus want conflict, or does Columbus want cooperation?

On June 16, voters will answer that question.