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In the race to become the next mayor of Syracuse, Deputy Mayor Sharon Owens has filed a lawsuit challenging the validity of petitions submitted by candidate Tim Rudd. Owens alleges that Rudd witnessed a signature being forged and still submitted the paperwork to the Onondaga County Board of Elections last month. Rudd, a former city budget director, is seeking to secure an independent line for the November election. He claims he followed all necessary rules and regulations.
The lawsuit, as reported by Syracuse.com, aims to remove Rudd from the ballot. Owens, who is running for the Democratic nomination, is challenging Rudd's petitions alongside city resident Rickey Brown, a supporter of her campaign. Rudd filed his petitions with 1,717 signatures, surpassing the minimum requirement of 1,443 for an independent candidacy.
This legal challenge adds to the already heated mayoral race, where current Mayor Ben Walsh cannot seek re-election due to term limits. The Democratic primary, set for June 24, has also seen its share of disputes. Owens' supporters have previously challenged the petition signatures of other Democratic candidates, such as Alfonso Davis and Jimmy Oliver, jeopardizing their spots in the primary.
With the legal proceedings underway, the outcome of Owens' lawsuit could significantly impact the mayoral race. If Rudd is removed from the ballot, he could still pursue other options to remain in the election. Meanwhile, the Onondaga County Board of Elections will review the objections and make a decision that could be contested in court.