Assemblyman Harry Bronson has handily defeated challenger Rachel Barnhart for the Democratic nomination in the 138th Assembly District — by 55 to 45 percent.
Barnhart says she’s disappointed, but not yet ready to give up on serving the Rochester community.
For the Republicans, it’s too close to call: 50 percent for Peter Vazquez, 49 percent and change for Bob Zinck, and some write ins. The difference between Vazquez and Zinck is only half-a-dozen votes. There are at least 14 absentee ballots to be counted on Tuesday. The winner runs against Harry Bronson in November. This one may well be headed for a recount.
In the 133rd, the vote from Livingston county tilted the Republican Party primary to the late Bill Nojay, who remained on the ballot despite his suicide on Friday because the ballot can’t be changed within seven days of an election. Nojay defeated Honeoye Falls Mayor Richard Milne 57 to 43 percent, although Milne did win the Monroe County vote. Milne conceded late last night and said he’s expressed his interest in running to the key party bosses who will now decide the candidate.
The Nojay win, powered by the vote from Livingston and Steuben Counties, means the Monroe, Livingston and Steuben County GOP Chairs will meet this evening in Geneseo to choose the party’s candidate. Monroe County Republican Party Chair Bill Reilich says they’re considering half-a-dozen possible names.
A six-county race between five Republicans, all eager to replace the retiring Senator Michael Nozzolio, went to the party’s favorite candidate.
Canandaigua Town Supervisor Pam Helming edged out her four challengers, including Floyd Rayburn who won Monroe County. Helming took 32 percent and Rayburn was close behind at 30. Brian Manktelow took 17 percent, Sean Hanna 11 and Jon Ritter seven percent.
Melissa Barrett easily turned back a challenge from Matthew Nafus for the Democratic Party nomination to run for Monroe County Court judge. The margin was 58-to-42 percent.