After Assemblyman John Lemondes announced his bid for Congress, longtime Onondaga County legislator Dave Knapp launched his campaign to succeed him in the 126th State Assembly District, which includes parts of Onondaga and Cayuga counties, including Auburn.
Knapp, a Republican from LaFayette, has served in local government for over two decades, including 12 years on the LaFayette Town Board and more than a decade in the county legislature. He previously chaired the legislature and led the Ways and Means Committee, gaining experience working across party lines.
A farmer and Army veteran, Knapp’s family has operated farms in southern Onondaga County since the early 1800s. He also works in the insurance industry and emphasizes local roots and community involvement in his campaign.
Key issues in his platform include housing affordability, local control over energy and development projects, and reforming state mandates that affect Central New York communities. He becomes the first Republican to declare for the seat, while several Democrats have expressed interest but not officially entered the race.
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