Syracuse’s Leading Black Women Leaders Endorse Pat Hogan for Mayor

Syracuse, N.Y. — Councilor Pat Hogan Gains Support from Prominent Female Leaders

Pat Hogan, a Common Councilor in Syracuse, is receiving significant backing in his bid for mayor from influential citywide elected officials. This coalition includes Council President Helen Hudson, Councilor-at-Large Rasheada Caldwell, and School Board President Tamica Barnett, all of whom are set to publicly announce their support today for Hogan ahead of a competitive Democratic primary set for June.

Support from Trailblazing Leaders

The endorsement of these three accomplished Black women comes shortly after concerns arose within the party regarding the Onondaga County Democratic Committee’s choice to endorse Hogan, a white male, over three Black female candidates.

“This isn’t about identity politics,” Caldwell emphasized in her endorsement statement. “It’s about who can effectively lead and make a difference.”

A Diverse Democratic Slate

In the upcoming primary, Hogan finds himself in a race against Deputy Mayor Sharon Owens, Councilor-at-Large Chol Majok, Police Community Engagement Director Jimmy Oliver, and activist Alfonso Davis. Notably, Hogan is the only candidate of a different ethnicity in this year’s lineup. Historically, the party committee had previously endorsed white male candidates in prior mayoral elections, while primary voters selected a Black man and a Latina woman in recent years.

All Candidates Ready for the Primary

Every candidate has successfully gathered sufficient signatures to secure their place on the June 24 primary ballot. Syracuse has yet to elect a Black mayor and has only had one female mayor in its history, Stephanie Miner.

Unified Endorsement from Black Political Leaders

The Hogan campaign is set to reveal a joint statement of endorsement from Hudson, Caldwell, Barnett, Councilor-at-Large Amir Gethers, and former city Democratic chair Bruce Conner, all prominent Black political figures. They express that the diverse candidate field this year is a positive development for the party, while highlighting Hogan’s extensive record as a city and school district employee and his longtime service as a city councilor.

“In this diverse race, Pat Hogan emerges as the leader most equipped to unite the city and guide it towards a future of inclusive and accountable leadership,” the statement reads.

Active Campaigning for Hogan

The supportive leaders are committed to campaigning for Hogan in the weeks ahead, urging voters across Syracuse to familiarize themselves with his platform and join the coalition advocating for a stronger, more united city.

Concurrent Campaigns for Councilors

Caldwell and Gethers are concluding their initial four-year terms and are also seeking re-election against Democratic challengers this year. Gethers expressed his support for Hogan earlier this winter and introduced him at a campaign kickoff event.

Influential Endorsements and Leadership

Hudson marks her 14th year on the council, having served as president for the past eight years. She has made significant endorsements throughout her career, including supporting incumbent Mayor Ben Walsh during previous elections. Notably, Hudson received more votes than any other citywide elected official in 2021.

Barnett, during her second term on the school board, has held the position of board president for three years since her initial election in 2019. She is also recognized as the first Black woman promoted to the rank of lieutenant in the Syracuse Fire Department.

For further inquiries, city reporter Jeremy Boyer is available via email or at (315) 657-5673 on social media.