Stillwater's Youngest Mayor Sworn In

The city of Stillwater has a new mayor and he's the youngest mayor in the city's history.

Monday, April 13th 2009, 8:51 pm

By: News 9


By Amy Lester, NEWS 9

STILLWATER, Oklahoma -- The city of Stillwater has a new mayor and he's the youngest mayor in the city's history.

Mayor Nathan Bates was sworn in Monday. It was a big step for a 27-year-old Oklahoma State University student.

Bates isn't quite used to his new title yet.

"I would say for the past week probably, I've been waking up and said, 'Wow, am I still dreaming?' Bates said. "It turns out that I'm not."

He moved to Oklahoma for school, after spending four and a half years in the Navy. He decided to take a chance and run for Mayor.

"I think it's an excellent opportunity to kind of get my feet wet and see what kind of difference and what kind of change I can make," Bates said.

Bates won by just 27 votes, against the incumbent. Voter turnout was about 10 percent.

"It's very important for people to get out there and voice their opinion," Bates said. "I hope that with the 27 vote margin that it encourages people in the future to exercise that freedom."

We found many people who never went to the polls. They look at Bates with optimism.

"It's pretty unusual, sure, but I think it's neat to see that people are interested in new ideas and change," said resident Chad Gill.

Bates admits he doesn't have experience but, he considers this a challenge and a way to make a difference.

"A lot of people have entrusted their faith in me and I am just hoping I don't let them down," Bates said.

Nathan Bates will serve a three year term as mayor. He said he's not sure if he wants to continue in politics after that.

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