VESTAL, NY (WSKG) — Binghamton Mayor Rich David has announced a run for New York’s 52nd State Senate District in 2022.
His announcement on Tuesday came a month after current Republican State Sen. Fred Akshar announced he would not seek reelection and is instead running for Broome County Sheriff.
David, also a Republican, announced his decision to run in Downtown Binghamton on Tuesday. Before introducing the mayor, Akshar urged his supporters to vote for David, as well as a litany of other Republican candidates for state and local offices.
“We are a united team, we are a united party, and we are united in our support for one another,” Akshar said.
Democrats control both legislative chambers and the governor’s mansion in Albany. David said that grip motivated his decision to run.
He said he wants to push back with demands for lower taxes and support for law enforcement.
“I’ve supported law enforcement as mayor, making sure the Binghamton Police Department has the resources necessary to keep our community safe,” David said. “I’m running to do the same in Albany.”
David announced he formed an exploratory committee for the state senate seat in June. At that time, he also endorsed Akshar for sheriff.
The 52nd Senate District currently covers Broome, Tioga and Chenango Counties, as well as part of Delaware County. Redistricting based on 2020 Census data, however, could change that.
The 10-person independent commission assigned to draw New York's congressional and state legislative maps must submit them to the legislature no later than Jan. 15, 2022. The commission will hold nine public hearings focused on each region of the state beginning July 20.
Candidates must file for state legislative primary elections by April 7.
Tom Quiter of Chenango County is also running for the seat. Quiter, a Libertarian, lost to Akshar in 2020.