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Kimberly Mata-Rubio, a mother turned advocate for stricter gun laws after losing her daughter in the Uvalde school shooting, was defeated in her bid for mayor of Uvalde, Texas.

Running on a platform of unity, she lost to Cody Smith, a two-term former mayor, in the recent election. Despite the loss, Mata-Rubio vowed to continue her advocacy, emphasizing that her campaign marked the beginning of her efforts.

Smith, who did not focus on the shooting during his campaign, expressed a desire to foster healing within the community. Following his victory, he indicated plans to engage with victims’ families, educators, and city officials regarding a fitting tribute to those lost in the tragedy.

This local election unfolded against the backdrop of another national debate on gun control spurred by a recent mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine. The national conversation on gun regulation continues, with President Biden visiting Lewiston and advocating for bipartisan consensus on gun safety measures.

Biden emphasized the need for “common sense, reasonable, responsible measures” to ensure public safety in everyday spaces, highlighting a shared interest in protecting community freedom across the political spectrum.