Charles Francis requests runoff against 3-term Raleigh mayor

RALEIGH, North Carolina (WTVD) -- Charles Francis, Democratic candidate for Raleigh's mayor, announced that he will request a runoff against incumbent Nancy McFarlane, who is unaffiliated.

Francis made the announcement during a press conference on Sunday afternoon. During his announcement, Francis also challenged McFarlane to a television debate. The three-term Raleigh mayor said she's willing to accept.

McFarlane, couldn't pull off a sure win on Tuesday, coming up shy of the 50 percent vote total needed to take the win.

In a statement, she said, "I look forward to continue speaking with voters about my record of public service and our city's accomplishments, as well as my vision for our city where our growth and prosperity benefits all residents."

The Raleigh Professional Fire Fighters Association tweeted in response to the runoff announcement. They will be hosting a joint meeting with the Raleigh Police Protective Association to screen the mayoral candidates and make a decision on an endorsement. The meeting will be on October 23 at the Teamsters Union Hall.

The Runoff election is November 7, the same day as the other municipal elections. If you did not vote on Election Day, you can vote in a runoff.

Early voting starts October 19.