Photo: Anton Petrus / Moment / Getty Images
Three Democratic candidates vying to become the next mayor of Syracuse participated in their first debate on Wednesday (April 30). The event, hosted by syracuse.com at Syracuse University's S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, featured Deputy Mayor Sharon Owens, Common Councilor Chol Majok, and Common Councilor Pat Hogan. They discussed their plans for the city if they win the June primary and the November general election.
During the debate, the candidates addressed significant issues facing Syracuse, including crime rates, public housing, and the economy. The removal of the Interstate 81 highway and the Micron project were also topics of discussion. Each candidate shared their vision for tackling these challenges, with Hogan emphasizing the need to address lead contamination and improve children and family programs, particularly within the Children Rising Center.
The primary election is scheduled for June 24, with early voting running from June 14 to June 22. The winner of the Democratic primary will face Republican candidate Thomas Babilon in the general election. Current Mayor Ben Walsh is unable to seek re-election due to term limits.
The debate was moderated by Chris Baker, public affairs editor at syracuse.com. Candidates were not given questions in advance, allowing for spontaneous and direct exchanges on pressing city issues.