The political landscape in New York‘s 61st Senate District is heating up as voters prepare to cast their ballots in the Democratic primary. Incumbent Jeremy Zellner and challenger Jon Rivera are locked in a fierce battle, each presenting their vision for the district that encompasses AmherstGrand Island the city and town of Tonawanda and parts of northwest Buffalo.
The race has drawn significant attention, with over 8,000 early votes cast in Erie County, making it the most contested primary of the year. As the candidates make their final appeals, the stakes are high for the diverse communities within the district.
The Candidates’ Paths to the Primary
Jeremy Zellner who has held the seat since, brings a wealth of political experience to the table. His journey into elected office began after defeating Republican Dan Gagliardo in a special election. Zellner’s background as the chair of the Erie County Democratic Committee and his tenure as a county Board of Elections commissioner have equipped him with a deep understanding of the political process.
Zellner emphasizes his ability to deliver resources and stand firm on critical policy issues. ‘I want to get things done,’ he stated, highlighting his support for initiatives like the New York for All and the New York Health Act. His campaign has also focused on protecting the community through immigration policies and advocating for a moratorium on data centers.
Jon Rivera on the other hand, represents a newer voice in the political arena. He announced his candidacy in, even before the mayoral election that vacated the Senate seat. Rivera’s campaign has been marked by a call for generational change and a critique of the party’s selection process. ‘People are just being placed into positions,’ Rivera argued, pointing to what he sees as a disconnect between party leaders and voters.
Campaign Strategies and Public Financing
Both candidates are leveraging New york state‘s Public Campaign Financing Program which provides matching funds for small donations. This program, launched in 2026, allows candidates to receive up to $375,000 in public money, fostering a more level playing field. According to financial disclosures, the candidates have spent a combined $2 million since, with Zellner outspending Rivera by nearly three times.
Despite the financial disparity, Rivera has been vocal about his support for key issues, including healthcare, immigration, and the moratorium on data centers. ‘This moratorium is about ensuring that New Yorkers have the time to ask questions,’ Rivera stated during a rally against a proposed data center in Tonawanda. His campaign has focused on engaging the community and addressing concerns about energy reliability and environmental impact.
Zellner, meanwhile, has highlighted his legislative achievements and his ability to navigate the complexities of Albany. ‘We’ve been able to deliver a lot of resources into the community,’ he said, pointing to his work on immigration policies and the data center moratorium. His campaign has emphasized his experience and his commitment to standing up for the district’s diverse needs.
The Issues at Stake
The race in the 61st Senate District is not just about the candidates but also about the issues that matter most to voters. Healthcare, immigration, and the environment have emerged as key topics, with both candidates expressing strong support for progressive policies. The moratorium on data centers, in particular, has become a rallying point, reflecting concerns about energy consumption and environmental impact.
As the candidates make their final pitches, voters are being urged to consider the broader implications of their choice. The district’s diversity, encompassing both affluent and economically challenged communities, adds another layer of complexity to the race. ‘You have some of the poorest people in our community and some of the wealthiest people in our community,’ Zellner noted, emphasizing the need for policies that address the district’s varied needs.
With primary day on the horizon, the outcome of the race remains uncertain. However, one thing is clear: the voters of New York’s 61st Senate District have a critical role to play in shaping the future of their communities.
