In a significant development in the Salem mayoral race, incumbent Julie Hoy has conceded to challenger Vanessa Nordyke, who appears to be on her way to victory after the release of new vote results. Early returns showed Nordyke leading Hoy, a trend that continued as the final results came in. Meanwhile, in the Salem City Council races, Dave Inbody has taken the lead against Deanna Gwyn, who has also conceded. Betsy Vega is leading in her contest against Mai Vang for the City Council Ward 6. Grassroots campaigns have notably outperformed big money interests in these elections, reflecting a shift in voter sentiment.