David Alvarez appears to have an edge over fellow democrat, Nathan Fletcher, in a very tight race for second place in yesterday’s special mayoral election. Republican Kevin Faulconer easily secured his spot in February’s runoff election with a first place showing.

With 100 percent of precincts reporting, Faulconer brought in 89,043 votes (43.58 percent), with Alvarez at 52,283 votes (25.59 percent) and Fletcher closely behind him with 49,645 votes (24.3 percent). County officials report that mail-in and provisional ballets will be tallied before official results are solidified.

Alvarez, who is only 33-years-old, created a strong surge with voters in recent weeks and fought through a hoarse voice to explain for KUSI news why he felt his campaign flourished as of late.

“People are coming together because they see in my story —– the story of many San Diegans —- that you work hard, and you make things possible,” stated Alvarez.

Faulconer, 46, benefited in the election from being the only viable Republican candidate, and from his familiarity with the citizens in his work on the San Diego City Council.

“The experience that I bring —– I served seven years on the council and my ability to work with my friends on the council —– I’m going to need that as mayor,” spoke Faulconer confidently to KUSI news.

Assuming that Alvarez holds on to the narrow 2600 vote margin, he and Faulconer will showdown in a runoff election in February.