Clayton Perry Explores Possibility of Mayoral Candidacy Despite DWI Conviction
Clayton Perry, a former District 10 Councilman, is contemplating a return to politics, expressing interest in running for the position of Mayor of San Antonio. Despite a previous conviction involving driving under the influence and leaving the scene of an accident, Perry has indicated that he is not averse to re-engaging in public service.
Perry’s Past Legal Troubles
Perry pleaded no contest in 2023 to multiple charges stemming from a November 2022 incident. These charges included driving while intoxicated and fleeing the scene of an accident. The incident, in which Perry was alleged to have crashed his vehicle into a Honda Civic at a North Side intersection, led to a national news uproar and censure from the City Council.
Documents released by the Bexar County District Attorney’s Office reveal that Perry consumed 14 drinks at a bar on the night of the incident. Following which, he tried to hand over his keys and wallet to a fast-food restaurant cashier, apparently having forgotten to order food, thereby raising suspicion about his state. Perry was sentenced to 12 months probation and 24 hours of community service in April 2023.
Perry’s Consideration for Mayoral Candidacy
Perry, despite his past legal problems, has shared that public encouragement is a significant part of his consideration for a return to public service. “I really enjoyed it on council, and people have been saying, ‘Clayton, you need to get involved again and run for office,” Perry shared during an interview. His decision to run for mayor is, however, yet to be confirmed.
Obstacles to Perry’s Mayoral Run
Paul Jimenez, Perry’s former chief of staff, suggests that Perry’s conservative political orientation could be the rallying point of opposition should he decide to run. “I don’t think that somebody who is as openly conservative could win the mayor’s race in San Antonio,” Jimenez stated in an interview. Perry’s potential bids are currently being viewed in light of his past legal issues and political orientation.
Other Notable Mayoral Contenders
At the time of reporting, District 9 Councilman John Courage and District 8 Councilman Manny Pelaez are the only high-profile candidates to have formally announced their candidacy for the upcoming mayoral contest. However, others are reported to be considering runs, including tech entrepreneur Beto Altamirano, District 4 Councilwoman Adrianna Rocha Garcia, and District 6 Councilwoman Melissa Cabello Havrda. The upcoming mayoral race is anticipated to be a competitive contest.
While Perry’s past legal troubles and political orientation present challenges should he decide to run, they are not definitive barriers to a return to public service.
Public sentiment remains a crucial factor in Perry’s decision to run for mayor, and his previous legal problems could swing the tides of public opinion should he formally announce his candidacy. The conclusive decision is yet to be announced, and the political scene remains watchful of his next steps.
