Sean Ryan wins Buffalo Democratic mayoral primary, defeating acting Mayor Scanlon after Byron Brown’s resignation.

Sean Ryan Secures Democratic Nomination in Buffalo

Buffalo, New York, is poised for new political leadership following state Senator Sean Ryan’s decisive victory in the city’s Democratic mayoral primary. Ryan defeated acting Mayor Christopher Scanlon, who had sought a full term after stepping in for longtime mayor Byron Brown, who resigned in October.

Ryan, endorsed by the Erie County Democratic Party, thanked voters and emphasized unity in his victory speech. “I know we need to unite Buffalo, not just as Democrats, but as Buffalonians,” Ryan declared, signaling his intention to build consensus and move the city forward after a period of political transition.

Scanlon, who assumed the mayor’s office after Brown’s departure to lead an off-track betting agency, expressed gratitude to his campaign team and supporters. “It was a lot of work and the most humbling experience of my life to have the type of support that the campaign has had to this point,” Scanlon stated during his concession. He apologized for “not getting it done” but urged his backers to stay engaged in the city’s civic life.

Margin of Victory and Political Implications

The Associated Press called the race for Ryan late Tuesday, reporting that he secured 46.5% of the vote in a competitive, multi-candidate field. Scanlon followed with 35.3%. Ryan, reflecting on the outcome in comments to Buffalo Toronto Public Media, said he was “so pleasantly surprised with the margin” of victory, which positions him as the likely frontrunner in the general election.

The primary marks a turning point for Buffalo’s city government, as Ryan prepares to lead following the departure of Byron Brown—the city’s longest-serving mayor. Ryan’s campaign emphasized themes of unity and progress, seeking to bridge divisions and rally support across the community.

Scanlon’s tenure, though brief, was shaped by the challenges of succeeding a long-standing incumbent and navigating a competitive political landscape. As the city looks to November’s general election, the focus now turns to Ryan’s vision for Buffalo’s future and his efforts to bring together residents in pursuit of common goals.