‘It's time for new leadership' – Local Dems respond to Daria Devlin's mayoral endorsement
'We are so humbled and honored to have received this endorsement from the Democratic party it was a very long process, a very thorough one, and really a difficult one because I think everybody understands that this is a really important and critical time for Erie,' said Devlin.
Erie Co. Democratic Party endorses Daria Devlin for mayor
The chairman of the Democratic party said the decision was based on three components that are issues in the city — The current projected deficit in the future, urban blight and general city services.
'When you put all that together, the committee felt that maybe it's time for new leadership,' said Sam Talarico, chairman of the Erie County Democratic Party.
Devlin said the endorsement was an opportunity for the committee to say to the voters, 'Let's pay attention, we believe, and we are putting confidence in Daria's leadership.'
She recalled how Mayor Joe Schember has served Erie well, but the challenges require a level of leadership that is not being provided by City Hall. The mayor said he is not concerned about the endorsement.
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'It doesn't really bother me, to be honest, because we all presented all three of us that are running, and I gave a very heartfelt presentation, and I had actually knew in advance. I had heard that it was probably going to go to her, and that's fine,' said Mayor Schember.
Talarico felt Mayor Schember has accomplished much in his two terms. He thinks it's time to pass the torch.
'Things are going on in the party. Even nationally, there's general tendency and attitude that maybe we need to turn the page, look for some new bolder leadership with some new ideas and Daria Devlin really made a compelling case about that,' said Talarico.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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