Onondaga County Legislator Maurice “Mo” Brown has declared victory over longtime New York state Assemblyman Bill Magnarelli after the counting of absentee ballots a week after the state’s primary elections showed a tight race for the 129th state Assembly District.
“No recount needed, our campaign is moving to the general, and I am the democratic nominee for the 129th Assembly. Central New Yorkers are tired of politics as usual, and today’s election results show how urgently they need a government that stands up to big money and works for them,” Brown said in a statement Tuesday. “I’m thankful voters trust me to carry their message to Albany, where I will fight for everyone’s right to housing, healthcare, and education.”
Magnarelli on Tuesday also conceded the election, which will end his 28-year tenure in the state Legislature’s lower chamber.
“It has been an honor and a privilege to represent the people of Central New York in both the Syracuse Common Council and the NYS Assembly for over 30 years. Unfortunately all good things come to an end,” Magnarelli said in a statement. “I congratulate Mo Brown on his win and wish him the best of luck. I want to once again thank all of my constituents who have supported me through the years. I am grateful to you all.”
Magnarelli was first elected to the state’s lower chamber in 1998. He serves as chairman of the Assembly Transportation Committee. The incumbent touted his 28 years on the job and said that time produces results while Brown, in the county legislature for three years, says he can bring something new to the table.
Brown doesn’t face a Republican candidate in the general election in November and Magnarelli has not faced a Republican opponent in a general election since 2020.
The 129th Assembly District includes parts of the city of Syracuse, the town of Geddes, the town of Van Buren and part of the village of Baldwinsville.
Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3.