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Syracuse residents will have an opportunity to hear directly from the candidates vying for the mayoral seat during a debate on Tuesday, October 14, at 8 p.m. The debate will feature candidates Sharon Owens, Tom Babilon, Alfonso Davis, and Tim Rudd. This event comes just 11 days before early voting begins for the November election.
Sharon Owens, the Democratic candidate and current deputy mayor, is considered a front-runner after a landslide victory in the Democratic primary. She has been endorsed by Mayor Ben Walsh and other prominent local figures. Owens has raised the most campaign funds, totaling $232,000, with significant support from downtown developers and community leaders.
Tom Babilon, representing the Republican Party, will face off against Owens in the general election. Independent candidates Tim Rudd and Alfonso Davis are also in the race, though they face legal challenges regarding their candidacies.
The debate will be moderated by Chris Baker, who oversees public affairs coverage for Syracuse.com. The candidates will not receive questions in advance, ensuring a spontaneous and dynamic discussion. The debate is crucial as it will be the last major public event before voters head to the polls on November 4.
The winner of the election will succeed Mayor Ben Walsh, who is stepping down due to term limits, and will take office in 2026. The new mayor will be tasked with overseeing significant city projects, including the demolition of the Interstate 81 viaduct and managing the anticipated growth related to Micron's expansion in the area.