In an easy victory, Democrat Bill Magnarelli has won his fifth term as assemblyman for the New York state 120th District.
“I’m feeling very good. I think it’s going to be a great night for Democrats.” (Bill Magnarelli, Democrat, 120th Assembly District)
With 97 percent of the vote counted, Magnarelli defeated Republican Kristen Rounds by 76 to 24 percent, according to The Post-Standard. The unofficial vote was Magnarelli with 31,273 to Rounds with 9,809.
At a celebration in Liverpool, he joined other local Democrats in thanking his supporters. The television screens covered two corners of the room with CNN and News10Now polling results.
People at the Democratic committee’s party cheered throughout the evening. They were especially loud for two winners – Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama and Democratic congressional candidate Dan Maffei, who won the 25th Congressional District.
Magnarelli has represented the 120th Assembly District for four terms. The 120th Assembly District includes Northside, Westside, Eastwood and Valley areas of Syracuse, Geddes and Van Buren.
At the polls earlier Tuesday, some voters portrayed their support for Magnarelli as party and personal loyalty.
One voter from Geddes chose Magnarelli partly due to his loyalty to the Democratic party.
“I would vote for Bill anytime — I think he’s a hard worker — he’s got a good heart for the people and he’s a good Democrat.” (Mark J. English, lawyer, registered Democrat, Geddes)
For others like retired New York State Trooper, Pete Patterson, it was Magnarelli’s experience that got their vote.
“I vote for people I know people – I know their track record – I know Magnarelli.” (Pete Patterson, retired state trooper, Geddes)
Magnarelli says he plans to continue where he left off in office. He has secured a million dollars from New York state for the city of Syracuse, “Say Yes to Education” pilot program. He says he will work on getting more money for the project.
For Democracywise, I’m Chloe Sommers.
-30-
