The 2011 Rochester mayoral special election took place on March 29, 2011, in the city of Rochester, New York, United States. Thomas Richards was elected over former mayor William A. Johnson Jr. to serve for the remainder of the term.
Background
Incumbent Democratic Thomas Richards had been sworn in as interim mayor after Robert Duffy was elected lieutenant governor in 2010, previously having served as the City of Rochester Corporation Counsel and subsequently deputy mayor.Large majority favors Richards There was some controversy about whether Richards was officially mayor, or whether the power appointing a new mayor rested solely with the City Council. The council decided to hold a special election rather than wait for a general election to be held in November. The immediacy of the election precluded the possibility of primaries, so candidates were chosen directly by the party leaders. Having decided to contest the special election for the rest of Duffy's term, Richards resigned to ensure he could run without violating terms of the Hatch Act, which could have jeopardized federal funding.Thomas Richards resigns as Rochester mayor; Carlos Carballada to take his place
Candidates
Democratic Thomas Richards - interim mayor
Working Families William A. Johnson Jr. - former mayorRichards wins special election
Independence William A. Johnson Jr.
Green Alex White - businessman
Results
References