Janet Burman will be the Republican candidate for Syracuse Mayor after defeating Tom Babilon in Tuesday’s primary. Burman believes she won the nomination because voters recognized that she had experience in business, government, and charitable giving. Now that she’s secured a spot on the November ballot, Burman will continue with her public safety focused message, but broaden her audience.
“I started the campaign off focusing on Republicans in order to get the necessary signatures to get on the ballot. Then I shifted to, my focus to voters of all persuasions,” said Burman.
Democrats have a large enrollment advantage in the city, but Burman said her platform is resonating with voters of all affiliations. She said in her experience, local politics is much more civilized than what we see of national politics.
“People at the local level are genuinely interested in hearing what all the candidates have to say,” said Burman. “It’s not the polarization and vitriol that characterizes national politics. It’s great that people in the city are very reflective and contemplative about the issues and are genuinely interested in solutions.”
Burman said her priorities are what set her apart from incumbent Mayor Ben Walsh. Her focus is on public safety, cost effective and reliable city services, and supporting existing businesses impacted by the pandemic.
