In a historic primary election, democratic socialist Maurice 'Mo' Brown has defeated 28-year incumbent Bill Magnarelli to become the Democratic nominee for New York State Assembly District 129. Brown won by approximately 100 votes after mail-in ballots were counted, overcoming a well-funded opposition campaign that included nearly $155,000 in ads from DoorDash and endorsements for Magnarelli from Governor Kathy Hochul.
Brown's victory is part of a national trend of democratic socialists defeating establishment candidates. 'The community has spoken, and the message is clear: Housing, healthcare, and education are human rights,' said Brown. He emphasized that the victory was a collective effort against 'big money and establishment politics.'
Brown ran as part of the 'Affordability Slate' alongside Jo Bennett, who won her primary for Onondaga County Legislator in District 15, and Tammy Honeywell, who lost her race but remains active. The slate was endorsed by Syracuse DSA, the New York Working Families Party, and Citizen Action of NY. Brown also received an endorsement from U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders, a full-circle moment for Brown, who began his political activism as a delegate for Sanders' presidential campaign.
The Syracuse DSA chapter, established in 2018, has grown to hundreds of dues-paying members and focuses on mutual aid, international solidarity, opposing ICE, and electing democratic socialists. The chapter's success in this primary reflects a broader movement in Central New York, as noted by Jo Bennett: 'I've never seen a movement like this in Central New York. This is historic.'
Brown and Bennett will now face Republican opponents in the general election on November 23rd. Both districts are heavily Democratic, increasing the likelihood of their victories. Brown stated, 'I will be so honored to represent our communities in Albany. I am ready to fight together to deliver on these needs and provide for all our people.'
The implications of this primary victory are significant. It demonstrates growing support for democratic socialist policies such as affordable housing, healthcare as a human right, and protections against ICE. It also signals a rejection of corporate influence in politics, as Brown's grassroots campaign overcame substantial spending by special interests. The success of the Affordability Slate may inspire similar efforts across the state and country, challenging long-standing incumbents and reshaping the political landscape.
For more information, visit the Syracuse DSA website at https://syracusedsa.org.
