Tools

GOP Oneida County Sheriff candidates make last minute push

By EMMA WRIGHT

Story Created: Sep 13, 2010 at 10:55 PM EDT

Story Updated: Sep 13, 2010 at 11:15 PM EDT

(WKTV) - Two candidates in one of the most talked about local primary races, the Oneida County Sheriff's race, spent Monday night making a final push to voters.

Dave Townsend and Jim Masucci made their final campaign pitches to a group of voters at a 'Meet the Candidates' forum in Western. Both republican candidates touted their backgrounds. Masucci talked about his 25 years in law enforcement and Townsend about his experience in government.

Primary eve wasn't without political bickering, however. Back in August, Dave Townsend accused Jim Masucci of carrying a gun without a valid permit. State Police investigated and have since said that Masucci's gun is in the clear.

"People still ask me about the gun," Masucci said. "I'm going to be carrying it for a long time."

"People kind of make the statement, how can this guy not have a license and be a cop," Townsend inquired.

Political newcomer and Rome Public Safety Commissioner Jim Masucci says the race has been a whirlwind. Meanwhile, Dave Townsend says his 20 years as 115th District Assemblyman have prepared him for the race.

On the Democratic side, New York Mills Mayor Robert Maciol will face off against corrections officer Angela Gumbarevic.

Primary polls are open Tuesday from 12 p.m.- 9 p.m.

What's On