Photo: Adrienne Bresnahan / Moment / Getty Images
Voters in Central New York are heading to the polls today (June 24) for the primary elections, with a significant focus on the Democratic primary for Syracuse mayor. The candidates vying for the position are Deputy Mayor Sharon Owens, Syracuse Common Councilor Pat Hogan, and Councilor Chol Majok. The winner will advance to the general election, aiming to replace Mayor Ben Walsh, who is stepping down due to term limits.
Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. today. Only registered Democrats in Syracuse can vote in this primary. The winner will face Republican Thomas Babilon, former Common Councilor Tim Rudd, and activist Alfonso Davis in November. Rudd and Davis are running as independents, though their candidacies face legal challenges.
Sharon Owens, who has Mayor Walsh's endorsement, could become Syracuse's first Black mayor if elected. She has raised $232,000, with significant support from downtown developers and community leaders. Pat Hogan, backed by the city's Democratic committee, has raised $177,000, mainly from landlords and business owners. Chol Majok, a former refugee from South Sudan, has emphasized his role in police oversight and budget processes.
For more information on polling locations and hours, voters can visit the Onondaga County Board of Elections website.