Democrat Joe Morelle began election day as the Majority Leader of the New York State Assembly. He ended it as Congressman-Elect, filling the 25th District seat left vacant by the death of Congresswoman Louise Slaughter.
Morelle said last night that he will carry on her legacy, working to unite not divide. He credits Slaughter with convincing him to run for State Assembly and launching his political career. He said he’s humbled at the outcome.
Morelle easily defeated Dr. Jim Maxwell, the Republican candidate, with 58-to-42 percent of the vote. Maxwell said last night he was grateful for the opportunity to run, worked hard, got well out of his comfort zone and met a lot of good people.
Morelle was elected twice last night: to fill the remaining weeks of Louise Slaughter’s term, and for a full two year term beginning in January. He will likely be sworn in as a member of Congress as early as next week, giving him extra weeks of seniority.