ONEIDA COUNTY, N.Y. (WKTV) - Two Democrats are squaring off Tuesday night for the right to challenge State Senator Joseph Griffo.

Former Minority leader of the Oneida County Legislature Michael Hennessy wants to represent the people of the 47th District in the State Senate.

Hennessy cast his primary ballot in Sherrill Tuesday afternoon. He said he is confident about his chances and looking ahead to November.

"I'm hoping we'll survive and go on to the general election," Hennessy said. "I'm looking forward to bring our case to Democrats, Republicans, Independents - about why I'm a better candidate than Joe Griffo."

Meanwhile, Hennessy's Democratic primary opponent, Maria Pavelock voted in Clinton, but spent a good portion of Tuesday afternoon greeting voters at Jefferson Elementary School in Utica.

Pavelock has received the endorsement of the Democratic Party. The former International Consultant believes she's put in the legwork to come away Tuesday night as the victor.

"I'm very hopeful," Pavelock said. "I really think that the past several months, traveling thousands of miles, meeting with hundreds of people - I have every reason to think I'm going to win this primary today."

Incumbent Senator Joseph Griffo does not face a Primary Challenger.