In the effort to recall El Paso Mayor John Cook and two city representatives, a judge denied Cook's request for a temporary injunction on Monday.

This means the recall election can go forward.

Cook's attorneys argued the recall petitions circulated by local churches are illegal - because signatures were allegedly collected inside those churches.

Attorneys representing local pastor Tom Brown said those who signed the petitions in church were just participating in the political process - something they have a constitutional right to do.

"We are very elated our first amendment right to free speech has been protected in this community, mayor Cook can just go deal with reality, and the reality is he's facing a recall election," said Theresa Caballero

KFOX14 tried to contact Cook for a comment but he has not yet returned our calls.

The recall election against the mayor, and city representatives Steve Ortega and Susie Byrd is set for April 14.