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The race for the next mayor of Syracuse, New York, is heating up as the four candidates prepare for two upcoming debates. Sharon Owens, Timothy Rudd, Alfonso Davis, and Thomas Babilon will participate in the debates scheduled for October 14 and October 22. The first debate, hosted by Syracuse.com and WCNY, will air at 8 p.m. on WCNY. The second debate will be broadcast on WSYR-TV.
Sharon Owens, the Democratic candidate and current deputy mayor, emerged as a front-runner after winning the Democratic primary. She has received endorsements from outgoing Mayor Ben Walsh and other local leaders. Owens has raised $232,000 in campaign funds, with significant backing from downtown developers and community leaders.
The Republican candidate, Tom Babilon, will compete against Owens, while independent candidates Tim Rudd and Alfonso Davis face legal challenges regarding their candidacies. The debates will be moderated by Chris Baker, who oversees public affairs coverage for Syracuse.com, ensuring a dynamic and spontaneous discussion as candidates will not receive questions in advance.
The election, set for November 4, will determine who succeeds Mayor Ben Walsh, who is stepping down due to term limits. The new mayor will oversee significant city projects, including the demolition of the Interstate 81 viaduct and managing growth related to Micron's expansion in the area. Early voting will take place from October 25 to November 2.