Sharon Owens cruised to victory in Syracuse’s Democratic primary Tuesday night. The deputy mayor easily defeated two opponents with a commanding lead, earning 58 percent of the vote from early and absentee ballots. Owens widened that gap as all votes were tallied, ultimately securing a 62 percent share of support from fellow democrats.
Sharing her win via Facebook from Atillio’s restaurant where supporters celebrated last night, she spoke about the race ahead for mayor as a marathon.
“The momentum is only going to build. It’s only going to build,” Owens promised supporters during her acceptance speech. “We’re speaking about the future. We’re speaking about inclusivity. We’re speaking about diversity. We’re speaking about all of us. Look at this room!”
Pat Hogan came in second with 23 percent and Chol Majok earned 15 percent. They, along with others yet to announce, may run in November on independent party lines. Tom Babilon is on the republican line.
In other primaries, incumbent Rasheada Caldwell and newcomer Hanah Ehrenreich claimed the nomination for two Syracuse councilor-at-large seats, easily bumping out incumbent Amir Gethers. In the county legislature’s 8th district, former common councilor Chad Ryan defeated Tammy Honeywell in a bid to represent parts of the city’s west side and Inner Harbor.