One of the newer members of the Onondaga County Legislature is exploring a primary bid for a state assembly seat held by a 27-year veteran Democrat. Maurice Brown acknowledged it’s a risky proposition.
He said before he filed his paperwork, Assemblymember Bill Magnarelli told him he wasn’t seeking re-election. Well, that changed but Brown isn’t deterred.
“I like my chances. I'm not going to get in the race unless I think I'm going to win," Brown said. "So part of the exploring means can I raise enough money? Can I get enough union support or local support?”
Brown said there’s been a positive response so far. He said the community wants someone different.
“It's not a referendum on him as it will be viewed," Brown said. "For me, it's about the kind of assembly member I want to see, and I'm not seeing that. Maybe it's age, maybe it's a different style.”
Brown is 33 and Magnarelli is 76. Brown calls himself a progressive Democrat who wants to challenge the establishment.
“There is a notion that he's done his time, even from the party leadership. And there's no succession plan in place," Brown said. "So folks are happy to know there is someone competent stepping up. The question isn't whether or not, the question is now or two years from now.”
Brown said it would be disingenuous of him to seek reelection to a new four-year county legislature term only to leave halfway through. He added the state assembly needs a voice like his now to champion legislation like the New York for All Act.
“So ICE can't just come in our communities and cooperate with local sheriffs departments," Brown said. "We need leaders on that because people need protection. We can't sit idly by.”
So far, no others have expressed interest in the seat.
