Retirement of District Attorney Ritts brings changes to the Ontario County District Attorney contest
Jason MacBride Poised to Become Ontario County District Attorney
After a heated primary race, Jason MacBride has emerged as the clear frontrunner in the race for Ontario County district attorney, following the retirement of incumbent Jim Ritts. MacBride, a former top prosecutor and assistant district attorney, won the June GOP primary against Ritts, who later announced his retirement in August 2025 [2][3].
Ritts originally planned to run on a Conservative line, but he has since stepped back to allow a smooth transition [1][3]. A recent court ruling knocked MacBride off an independent ballot line, but he is currently appealing, and the outcome of this appeal may no longer matter due to Ritts' retirement [1][3].
The race has been influenced by controversy over a 2024 courthouse "Fall Fest" event during Election Day, which became a point of criticism and political conflict between Ritts and MacBride [3][4]. MacBride intends to continue his campaign to "earn people's trust and votes" and could assume the DA role sooner to handle significant upcoming cases [1].
Residents interested in staying informed about the latest news can download the free FingerLakes1.com App on iOS devices (iPhone, iPad) [5]. FingerLakes1.com, the region's leading all-digital news publication, founded in 1998, also offers a Morning Edition to deliver the latest headlines to your inbox each morning.
In the Ontario County district attorney's office, seven suspects are set to be prosecuted in a high-profile abuse and homicide case [6]. As the election approaches, MacBride's campaign remains focused on earning the support of the community and securing a victory in the November election.
[1] FingerLakes1.com [2] Democrat and Chronicle [3] The Post-Standard [4] The Ithaca Voice [5] FingerLakes1.com App [6] Ontario County District Attorney's Office
MacBride's campaign is intensifying with the upcoming general election, navigating the complexities of policy-and-legislation and politics, as he aims to earn the support of the community for the Ontario County district attorney's position. The recent court ruling and subsequent appeal have not dampened his spirits, as he intends to continue his mission to uphold justice in the face of general-news events such as the high-profile abuse and homicide case that is under the jurisdiction of the Ontario County District Attorney's Office.
