Sean Ryan Triumphs Over Acting Mayor Scanlon in Buffalo Democratic Primary

Sarah Johnson
June 25, 2025
Brief
State Sen. Sean Ryan defeats Acting Mayor Christopher Scanlon in Buffalo, N.Y.'s Democratic primary, securing 46.5% of the vote for mayor nomination.
In a surprising turn of events in Buffalo, N.Y., Acting Mayor Christopher Scanlon has been ousted in the Democratic primary by state Sen. Sean Ryan. The race, which unfolded on Tuesday night, saw Ryan clinching the nomination with a solid 46.5% of the vote, while Scanlon trailed behind at 35.3%, according to the Associated Press.
Scanlon, who stepped into the role after the resignation of Buffalo’s longest-serving mayor, Byron Brown, last October, was aiming for a full term. In his concession speech, he expressed deep gratitude to his supporters, calling the campaign the "most humbling experience" of his life, while apologizing for not securing the win.
On the other side, Ryan, backed by the county Democratic Party, celebrated his victory with a call for unity. He emphasized the need to bring Buffalonians together, not just as Democrats but as a community. Clearly buoyed by the wider-than-expected margin of victory in a crowded field, Ryan’s confidence signals a strong start to his campaign for the general election.
This primary result shakes up the political landscape in Buffalo, as the city looks to a new leader to tackle its challenges and bridge divides. With Ryan at the helm of the Democratic ticket, the road ahead promises a fresh perspective for the city’s future.
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Editor's Comments
Well, folks, Buffalo just played a political game of musical chairs, and Acting Mayor Scanlon didn’t find a seat when the music stopped. Sean Ryan’s victory margin was wider than a Buffalo winter snowdrift—guess the voters were ready for a new plow to clear the city’s path. Here’s hoping Ryan’s unity talk isn’t just hot air; Buffalo could use less political frostbite and more warm handshakes.
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