Democratic Party in Syracuse faces a significant turning point, according to Sharon Owens
In the heart of New York, Syracuse is gearing up for a pivotal election in November. Sharon Owens, the Democratic mayoral nominee, won resoundingly with over 60% of the vote in June, marking a significant victory for her campaign [1]. However, her path to victory may not be without challenges, as she navigates the complexities of Syracuse's political landscape.
Owens, who has been working under independent Mayor Ben Walsh, is having meetings with leaders within the Syracuse Democratic Party who want to see change [2]. The discussions are expected to cover her campaign, plans for the local party, and her expectations from Gov. Kathy Hochul in the general election [2].
The Syracuse Democratic Party's endorsement in the recent mayoral Democratic primary went to Common Councilor Pat Hogan, a candidate opposing Owens [1]. This decision marks the third consecutive election cycle where the local Democratic Party backed a candidate who lost the primary [1]. Despite this, Owens remains confident about her chances in November, recognising the party is "facing a reckoning" and expressing a desire to unify and build the party upstate [1].
Owens's campaign has been actively consolidating support across party lines. She has secured endorsements from unions such as the North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters Local 277 [3], and her focus on community and economic development plans may help facilitate reconciliation post-primary [3].
If Owens wins in November, she would become the first Black mayor of Syracuse and only the second woman to lead the city. However, she will face competition from two independents and a Republican candidate in the general election [4]. Despite this, Owens is confident that she will succeed, citing the common challenges cities face, such as poverty rates, and the need to be on the same page for future success [1].
Meanwhile, two Democrats are attempting to get on the ballot as independents in the Syracuse mayoral race [4]. This dynamic adds another layer of complexity to the upcoming election, as Owens seeks to unify the party and lead Syracuse forward.
Sharon Owens, the Democratic mayoral nominee, is discussing her campaign, local party plans, and expectations from Gov. Kathy Hochul with Syracuse Democratic Party leaders. Amidst political challenges within the party and competition from other candidates, Owens aims to tackle policy-and-legislation issues such as migration, war-and-conflicts, and community development, as featured in general-news.
