Corcoran Defeats Schleimer in District 2 BOL Race; Cunzio Victorious in District 3
The Republicans picked up an open seat on the Westchester County Board of Legislators Tuesday night as Bedford Councilman Francis Corcoran defeated Mount Kisco village Trustee Karen Schleimer in District 2.
With 100 percent of the districts tabulated early Wednesday morning, Corcoran, 52, was out in front 4,900-4,385. He ran on the Republican, Conservative and Reform Party lines, while Schleimer, 65, had the backing of the Democratic, Independence and Women’s Equality parties.
Corcoran will take the seat on or about Dec. 1, once the election is certified because of the resignation of Democrat Peter Harckham earlier this year. Interim Legislator Alan Cole was appointed in June to represent the district. Corcoran will participate in the 2016 budget process once he is seated.
Corcoran greeted his jubilant supporters with the news of his victory on Election Night at Gianfranco’s restaurant in Bedford.
“I could hardly believe the actual reality,” he said. “There were so many people who volunteered. This would never have happened without so many folks who worked on trying to get out the vote.
“I want to thank all the people in northern Westchester who put their trust in me that I’ll do the right things to represent our needs down in White Plains in the county legislature, making sure that we protect the quality, the character and the affordability of northern Westchester,” Corcoran continued. “We’re different. Our voice needs to be heard and I think I could be the person who will go down there and make sure that’s the case.
“I never thought I’d be up here speaking to you as your next county legislator. I’m pretty happy that I am.”
Schleimer thanked her supporters and said that the election was “very, very tight.” She said the financial backing of County Executive Rob Astorino and the state GOP on behalf of her opponent was a significant factor in the outcome.
Despite the disappointment of defeat, Schleimer said the race was “a great experience” and she would continue to serve Mount Kisco as a trustee.
Cunzio Wins District 3
Another open seat on the Board of Legislators also went to a Republican Tuesday night.
Margaret Cunzio comfortably won election to the District 3 seat by defeating Democrat John Diaconis 4,043-3,156.
Cunzio will take over from two-term legislator and fellow Republican Michael Smith, who decided against running for re-election.
