The political season in the city of Syracuse has begun. Syracuse Mayor Stephanie Miner has made a relatively early announcement of her intentions to run for re-election.
"I am officially a candidate for mayor of Syracuse," Miner declared at the Inner Harbor on a chilly January afternoon in Syracuse, in front of dozens of supporters and city hall staffers. She announced her intention to run for a second term, saying her record in the areas of economic development, education and crime will move ahead in a second term.
"I've been surrounded by terrific people, who are passionate, committed and very smart, and together along with the spirit and perseverance of the Syracuse people, we've been able to really move forward, and we can continue to do that," the mayor said.
Miner says her record will hold up against any challengers. Onondaga County Republican Party Chairman Tom Dadey has a handful of names on a list of possible contenders, including state Senator John DeFransisco, Onondaga County Legislature Chairman Ryan McMahon and state Supreme Court Judge Ed Carni. Dadey says a Republican challenger would be a priority, but he also wouldn't rule out cross-endorsing a Democrat. Common Councilor Pat Hogan, a Democrat, is considering challenging Miner. Dadey expects his party to designate a candidate in May.
