SCHENECTADY – Mayor Gary McCarthy fought off a challenge on his way to a fourth term, winning the Democratic primary Tuesday against City Councilwoman Marion Porterfield.
McCarthy won the Democratic line by 1,457 to 1,190 in unofficial results. Porterfield was also trying to get on the general election ballot on the Working Families Party line, but was challenged to a primary by Edward Varno for that line. That race was too close to call Tuesday night, with both candidates getting 26 votes.
Either way, it means the fall ballot will offer three candidates for mayor: McCarthy, Republican Matt Nelligan, and either Varno or Porterfield.
Neither McCarthy or Porterfield could be reached for comment after the final vote tally came in.
Voters earlier Tuesday said they were largely content, though Porterfield made a strong showing among voters who said they want change.
“It was a tough call because change is good, but I’m not unhappy with the current mayor,” said voter Julia Brown.
Others said they are pleased by economic development and the demolition of abandoned properties, but that more needs to be done
“I have good friends that struggle. They’re people of color and have a little more difficult time with accessing certain programs,” said voter Brianne Brinker, who added that being challenged might improve McCarthy’s performance.
“It helps keep the incumbent accountable, see maybe some of their blind spots,” Brinker said.
McCarthy, 66, has been mayor since April 2011, while Porterfield, 67, has been on the City Council since April 2012.
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