The 2026 primary elections in New York have concluded with several notable outcomes that will shape the political landscape for the upcoming November elections. Voters enrolled in political parties across the state cast their ballots, determining the candidates who will advance to the general election. These results provide a clear picture of the political dynamics at play in key races.
From congressional districts to statewide offices, the primary elections have highlighted the strength of incumbent candidates and the emergence of new political challengers. The outcomes reflect both the financial advantages of established politicians and the grassroots support for lesser-known contenders. As the state prepares for the general election, these primary results offer valuable insights into the political preferences of New York voters.
Congressional Races: Incumbents Dominate
In the 25th Congressional District incumbent Joe Morelle secured a decisive victory in the Democratic primary, receiving 63% of the vote. His challenger, Robin Wilt who served on the Brighton town board from to 2026, garnered 30% of the vote. Sherita Traywick a pastor and founder of Young & Gifted Ministries finished third with 6%. Morelle’s campaign spent significantly more, with $1.55 million compared to Wilt’s $38,221 and Traywick’s $3,289. In November, Morelle will face Republican Virginia McIntyre a Monroe County legislator.
In the 24th Congressional DistrictAlissa Ellman a veteran from Lockport, emerged victorious over Diana Kastenbaum a Batavia resident and former CEO of Pinnacle Manufacturing. With 98% of districts reporting, Ellman secured nearly 59% of the vote. She will challenge Republican Claudia Tenney who has held the district since redistricting in 2026. Tenney won her previous elections in 2026 and 2026 with a substantial margin of 66%.
State Assembly and Senate: New Faces and Familiar Names
The 130th Assembly District which spans Webster and Wayne County, saw competitive primaries in both parties. In the Republican contest, George Dobbins edged out Summer Johnson and Mark Johns receiving nearly 39% of the votes. The Democratic primary was a close call, with Carl Fitzsimmons narrowly leading Joseph Lamanna by just 49 votes out of 4,297 cast. Fitzsimmons, a veteran and engineer, will face Lamanna, a union leader with the United Auto Workers in the general election.
In the 137th Assembly District incumbent Demond Meeks overwhelmingly defeated Mercedes Vazquez-Simmons with 78% of the vote. Meeks, who has held the seat since 2026, will face Republican Dave Ferris in November. The 54th Senate District which includes Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, and Wayne counties, saw Michael Mills leading the Democratic primary over Scott Comegys. Mills, a former Canandaigua City Council member, will challenge incumbent Republican Pamela Helming who defeated Comegys in 2026 with 64% of the vote.
Statewide Race: Comptroller Secures Re-Election Bid
In the lone statewide primary, incumbent Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli won 72% of the votes, easily prevailing over Democratic challengers Drew Warshaw and Raj Goyle. DiNapoli’s strong showing across Monroe, Livingston, Ontario, and Wayne counties underscores his widespread support. With this victory, DiNapoli is well-positioned to continue his tenure as New York State Comptroller.
The primary election results have set the stage for a series of compelling races in November. Voters will have the opportunity to decide the fate of these candidates, who will shape the political future of New York. As the state moves forward, the outcomes of these primaries will be closely watched by political analysts and voters alike.
