Skip navigation menu
Hero background image

sharon owens for syracuse mayor

ENDORSEMENTS

<p>Mayor Ben Walsh</p>

Mayor Ben Walsh

"We are in a moment in the City of Syracuse - a moment of growth, momentum, and opportunity - and we need a leader who not only understands the challenges we face, but also has the heart and the experience to meet them head on.  That leader is Sharon Owens.  Her passion for this community runs deep.  While she may not have been born here, Syracuse is in her bones.  She knows our neighborhoods, she knows our people, and most importantly, she cares deeply about both.  I’ve seen firsthand her ability to lead with integrity, to manage complex systems, to turn struggling institutions around, and to deliver for residents across this city.  From the Southwest Community Center to City Hall, Sharon has led with both compassion and competence.  There is no one more prepared to be the next mayor of Syracuse.  That’s why I am proud to endorse Sharon Owens to be our city’s 55th mayor and my successor.”

<p>Senator Rachel May</p>

Senator Rachel May

Sen. May said, “I really admire Sharon’s positive, people-centered vision for a city built around thriving and healthy neighborhoods. Our whole region - the whole state, actually - is in a housing crisis, and Sharon will use every tool in the toolbox to help more people make a good home here in Syracuse. I’ve watched her dive into the details, whether it’s financing tools, design options, planning and zoning, street safety, code enforcement, eviction protections, accessibility, or park improvements. She asks good questions and truly listens to the answers. And she brings to every issue and every interaction a genuine passion for this city and its people. As we shift from being a city built for high-speed through traffic to one designed for human beings, I believe Sharon will bring the vision and experience to make Syracuse the kind of home we all want to live in, which is why I endorse her for Mayor.”

<p>Chief Michael Monds</p>

Chief Michael Monds

“Sharon Owens has always been a champion for Syracuse’s first responders. She understands that public safety isn’t just a talking point—it’s about making sure the men and women on the front lines have the resources, training, and facilities they need to protect our community. I’ve worked alongside Sharon and seen her commitment firsthand. She listens, she leads, and she delivers. That’s why I proudly endorse her for mayor.”

<p>New York State Comptroller<br>Tom DiNapoli</p>

New York State Comptroller
Tom DiNapoli

“Sharon Owens has the experience, integrity, and fiscal responsibility Syracuse needs right now. She understands that every tax dollar must be spent wisely, and she has the leadership skills to work with the state and local partners to close the city’s budget gap while protecting essential services. I’m proud to endorse Sharon because she’s committed to transparency, accountability, and building a stronger future for all Syracuse residents.”

<p>Onondaga County Clerk Emily Essi Bersani</p>

Onondaga County Clerk Emily Essi Bersani

“I proudly endorse Sharon Owens for Mayor of Syracuse. As a dedicated public servant and proven leader, Sharon brings both vision and experience to the challenges facing our city. Her deep roots in the community and her tireless advocacy for equity position her to be the leader Syracuse needs. Syracuse deserves a mayor who listens, leads, and delivers. I believe Sharon Owens is that leader.”

<p>New York Attorney General Letitia James</p>

New York Attorney General Letitia James

“It is my honor and my privilege to work with you as we focus on affordability and and as we focus on public safety, together,” said Attorney General Letitia James. “I look forward to working with you, and I congratulate you. I proudly endorse Sharon Owens for mayor.”

Photo by Solon Quinn Studios.

<p>Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins</p>

Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins

“Sharon Owens is the steady, compassionate, and results-driven leader Syracuse needs right now. She has shown she can bring people together, protect public safety, expand affordable housing, and grow good-paying union jobs—all while governing with integrity. I’m proud to endorse Sharon because she will deliver for every neighborhood and every family in Syracuse.”

<p>Syracuse Common Councilor Corey Williams</p>

Syracuse Common Councilor Corey Williams

“During my time on the Common Council, I have requested the assistance of the Deputy Mayor a number of times. Not only did she deliver, but went above and beyond my expectations each time. I look forward to working with Mayor Owens and proudly endorse her historic candidacy.”

<p>Assemblyman Al Stirpe</p>

Assemblyman Al Stirpe

“I’m endorsing Sharon Owens for Mayor because she’s a results-driven leader who knows that a strong city means a strong region. Sharon will bring people together to strengthen neighborhood safety, expand housing options, and grow jobs. Syracuse’s success drives Central New York’s success—and Sharon Owens is the partner we can count on to deliver.”

<p>Common Councilor at-Large Rita Paniagua</p>

Common Councilor at-Large Rita Paniagua

“I am honored to endorse Sharon Owens for Mayor of Syracuse. Sharon is a proven leader who listens with empathy, acts with integrity, and works tirelessly to build stronger neighborhoods. She understands the challenges our families face and has the experience to bring real solutions. I believe Sharon will unite our community and move Syracuse forward with fairness, collaboration, and vision.”

<p>First District Councilor Marty Nave</p>

First District Councilor Marty Nave

“I represent the most diverse district, citizens from throughout the world who share many religions, cultures and traditions. My district also has numerous issues which cannot be solved overnight. I believe Sharon Owens will take a different approach to address and solve our problems. Therefore I will give my full support to Sharon Owens as our next Mayor.”

<p>Fifth District Councilor and Democratic City Chair Jimmy Monto</p>

Fifth District Councilor and Democratic City Chair Jimmy Monto

“As the first openly LGBTQ person elected to the Syracuse Common Council, I am proud of Sharon’s efforts to ensure a diverse workforce that is treated fairly and equitably. In these times especially, integrity matters, Sharon has proven herself to be a leader that embodies the utmost integrity.  I look forward to seeing what Mayor Owens will accomplish in the city that we both love.”

<p>Syracuse City Auditor Alexander Marion</p>

Syracuse City Auditor Alexander Marion

"Sharon is a committed community leader who shares my belief in Syracuse's potential. I am eager to work together to build more housing and protect tenants, improve infrastructure, and support our immigrant neighbors. She has my support to be Syracuse's next Mayor." 

<p>Senator Chris Ryan</p>

Senator Chris Ryan

"I’m proud to support Sharon Owens for Syracuse Mayor. Sharon knows that real progress starts with collaboration by bringing people together, listening, and getting things done. She’s earned the respect of organized labor and community leaders because she leads with integrity and puts people first. I have no doubt she’ll bring that same spirit of partnership and purpose to City Hall."

<p>Democratic Caucus of the Onondaga Legislature</p>

Democratic Caucus of the Onondaga Legislature

"On behalf of the Democratic Caucus of the Onondaga County Legislature, I am proud to endorse Sharon Owens to be our next Mayor of Syracuse,” said Minority Leader Nodesia R. Hernandez. Sharon is deeply rooted in our community, cares about the people who live here, and has unparalleled experience and skills to serve our city as we rise to meet the moment. Early voting starts this Saturday and I am calling on us all to vote Sharon Owens for Mayor." 

The Democratic Caucus of the Onondaga Legislature is represented by: Minority Leader Nodesia Hernandez (17th District), Dan Romeo (7th District), Palmer Harvey (9th District), Maurice Brown (15th District), and Charles Garland (16th District).

<p><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary)">New York Working Families Party (NYWFP)</span></p>

New York Working Families Party (NYWFP)

The NYWFP is committed to electing leaders who will focus on improving the lives of workers and their families instead of leveraging the power of government for the benefit of the rich and well-connected. Candidates who apply for the Working Families Party endorsement complete a robust questionnaire and interview process. 

At a time when local elected officials are on the frontline of protecting our communities and democracy, NYWFP is investing deeply in elections across the state to ensure New Yorkers have trusted leaders who fight for working families.

<p>College Democrats of America</p>

College Democrats of America

The College Democrats of America are committed to supporting progressive candidates who harbor a similar vision to youthful democrats across the country. We firmly believe that the election of proponents of sustainable climate policy, LGBTQ+ equality, abortion rights, voting accessibility, a livable wage, and readily available healthcare to all levels of government is a step in the right direction. So, whether you’re gunning for local or federal office, please reach out if you share our priorities. 

<p>College Democrats of New York </p>

College Democrats of New York

College Democrats at Syracuse University, CDNY, and CDA back experienced leaders who are committed to standing up for New Yorkers against the chaos and dysfunction coming from Washington. Sharon Owens is the leader Syracuse deserves—committed to affordable housing, economic opportunity, and policies that support college students. She has been a strong advocate for college students, pushing for tenant protections, affordable education, and job opportunities that help young people build a future in Syracuse. We look forward to helping her become the city’s next mayor.

<p>Democrats of Syracuse University</p>

Democrats of Syracuse University

“The Democrats at Syracuse University are proud to endorse Sharon Owens, an alumni and an incredibly dedicated public servant for our city, for Mayor of Syracuse city. As deputy mayor, she has proven to be a capable fighter for the needs of Syracuse Residents and students. We are honored to have the ability to endorse her historic candidacy and look forward to working to elect her as the next mayor of Syracuse.”

<p>Citizen Action of New York &amp; Central New York</p>

Citizen Action of New York & Central New York

"Citizen Action of New York is proud to announce its endorsement of Sharon Owens for Mayor of Syracuse. A lifelong advocate for equity and justice, Owens brings bold, community-centered vision to city Hall - one that puts the needs of working families, neighbors, and everyday Syracusans first.

Sharon Owens has spend her career fighting for the people of Syracuse, said Shana. Dhalin, Citizen Action of New York Board President. She will be a mayor who prioritizes working families, affordable housing, quality education, and public safety rooted in community needs - not punishment."

<p>Eleanor's Legacy</p>

Eleanor's Legacy

"Eleanor's Legacy is proud to endorse Sharon Owens for Mayor of Syracuse. As an organization dedicated to supporting pro-choice Democratic women running for office in New York State, it is an honor to stand behind Sharon's historic campaign. When elected, she will become the first Black mayor and only the second woman to lead the city. At a time when women's rights and democratic values are under attack, we need leaders like Sharon - leaders who break barriers and build bridges. We are thrilled to support her in this pivotal moment for Syracuse."

<p>1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East</p>

1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East

"The healthcare workers of 1199SEIU held candidate interviews, read through the questionnaires, and reviewed the record of the Syracuse Mayoral candidates. The members of 1199SEIU chose Sharon Owens as the most qualified candidate to be the next Mayor of Syracuse. We look forward to working with Sharon in her historic campaign and when she becomes Mayor."

<p>New York League of Conservation Voters</p>

New York League of Conservation Voters

"Sharon Owens has long worked to confront the environmental injustices facing Syracuse - from household toxins to poor air quality - and she understands that the environment and environmental justice must be central to the city's future. Her leadership on mapping Syracuse's carbon footprint and her focus on health, safety, and equity make her the right choice to lead this city in an era of climate change. We are proud to endorse Sharon Owens for Mayor of Syracuse."

<p>The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 43</p>

The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 43

"This endorsement comes from the heart of our organization, representing the collective support of our 1,500 members who believe in your vision and commitment to advocating for the needs of working families. We are confident that your candidacy will resonate with the values and aspirations of our members, and we are eager to assist in propelling your campaign towards a triumphant outcome. Your dedication to championing the causes that are crucial to our members and the broader community has not gone unnoticed, and we trust that you will continue to be a formidable ally in the pursuit of progress and fairness."

<p>Upstate Progressive PAC</p>

Upstate Progressive PAC

"We are proud to strongly endorse your campaign for the upcoming 2025 primary!"

<p>Syracuse.com/Advance Media NY Editorial Board</p>

Syracuse.com/Advance Media NY Editorial Board

"The next mayor of Syracuse will preside over the metamorphosis of downtown after the Interstate 81 viaduct comes down, an influx of new residents drawn here by Micron, the remaking of public housing in Syracuse and the once-a-decade renegotiation of the sales tax split with Onondaga County.

At this pivotal time, with the city already moving on a positive trajectory, continuity of leadership is a good thing.

The editorial board endorses Sharon Owens, the deputy to Mayor Ben Walsh for eight years, in the June 24 Democratic mayoral primary against two members of the Common Council, Patrick Hogan and Chol Majok."

"Owens didn’t just start cooking up some ideas to build traction for a half-hearted campaign. Over decades, she displayed the leadership skills, temperament, team building, common sense and empathy to run effectively something big and important. She could be a historic and impressive mayor. We’ll see, but she’s more ready, more tested than her opponents. We look forward to watching her make her own mark.

The editorial board endorses Owens to be the next mayor of Syracuse at this historic juncture when Interstate 81 is coming down, a new neighborhood around it goes up and the Micron boom arrives."

<p>Syracuse Teachers Association</p>

Syracuse Teachers Association

The STA, which represents more than 3,000 teachers and education professionals across the Syracuse City School District, voted overwhelmingly to support Owens' candidacy following a series of conversations about her vision for Syracuse, her longstanding support for public education, and her commitment to uplifting students, educators, and families.

<p>North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters Local 277</p>

North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters Local 277

Local 277, part of a regional council that advocates for fair wages, safe working conditions, and high-quality craftsmanship, voted to support Owens following discussions about her plans for equitable economic development, investment in local infrastructure, and commitment to creating family-sustaining jobs.

<p>United Food and Commercial Workers District Union Local One</p>

United Food and Commercial Workers District Union Local One

The United Food and Commercial Workers District Union Local One representing 17,000 members in Upstate New York and Northern Pennsylvania - proudly endorses you for your candidacy in this year's election for Mayor of Syracuse.

On behalf of the members of Local One and their families, we believe your candidacy would be beneficial to the labor movement.

The labor movement will play an intimate role in the success of our state and nation in the 21st Century. Our goal is to continue to protect and represent our membership and we are confident we are doing that by this endorsement.

We wish you the best of luck in the upcoming election, and are looking forward to working with you.

<p>United Auto Workers Region 9</p>

United Auto Workers Region 9

"Your positions reflect a clear understanding of the issues that matter to UAW members, working families, and the broader labor movement. We extend this endorsement with the hope that, if elected, you will continue to uphold and promote the values we fight for every day: dignity in the workplace, fair wages, strong labor standards, and policies that protect the rights of all workers."

<p>The Greater Syracuse Labor Council (AFL-CIO)</p>

The Greater Syracuse Labor Council (AFL-CIO)

On behalf of the leaders and delegates of the Greater Syracuse Labor Council, AFL-CIO, I am pleased to inform you of our endorsement of your candidacy for the 2025 election campaign.

Your distinguished record of service demonstrates your commitment to the rights of workers, quality health care, and numerous other issues of importance to working people in Central NY. We will be notifying the general public about our endorsement of your candidacy.

If we can be of any further assistance to your campaign, please do not hesitate to contact us. We wish you the best of luck in the upcoming election and we look forward to working with you in the future.


<p>International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT) District Council 4</p>

International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT) District Council 4

IUPAT District Council 4, representing painters, glaziers, drywall finishers, glassworkers, billboard posters, printing press workers and prenatal/perinatal healthcare workers, held its bi-monthly meeting on September 15, 2025.  The agenda included requests for endorsements from many candidates.  Following a review of your completed candidate questionnaire and a question-and-answer period, the council delegates unanimously voted to support and endorse you for Mayor of the City of Syracuse.

Congratulations, and thank you for your pledge to represent working people.  We look forward to working with you on the issues that matter to our membership.

<p>CSEA Central Region 5</p>

CSEA Central Region 5

“Sharon Owens has always stood with working people, and that’s why CSEA is proud to stand with her. She understands the value of public service and has shown time and again that she listens, leads with integrity, and fights for the dignity of workers and all Syracuse residents. Sharon is a leader who puts working people first, and that’s exactly what Syracuse needs.”

<p>Teamsters Local 317</p>

Teamsters Local 317

“The Teamsters are pleased to endorse and support Sharon Owens for Mayor of the City of Syracuse. Deputy Mayor Owens has always supported workers’ rights to organize as well as supporting Project labor agreements for construction projects.  Deputy Mayor Owens supports adequate funding for health care and education and believes workers deserve a living wage.”

<p>Sierra Club Central-Northern New York Group</p>

Sierra Club Central-Northern New York Group

The Sierra Club Central-Northern New York Group, a regional branch of the national Sierra Club with more than 2,500 members, advocates for clean air and water, the protection of forests and open spaces, and environmental justice across Upstate New York. 
Sierra Club Central-Northern New York Group also formally endorsed Owens, crediting her commitment to environmental issues and trust that she will keep these issues at the forefront of her campaign.

<p>Congressman Pat Ryan’s Patriot PAC<br></p>

Congressman Pat Ryan’s Patriot PAC

Sharon Owens earned the endorsement of Patriot PAC NY, Congressman Pat Ryan’s new political organization dedicated to building the bench of servant leaders both in New York and across the country. Every endorsed “Patriot” will come from a background of public service, including the military, law enforcement, union leadership, public school teachers, and first responders.