Cornell scientist running for Ithaca Common Council

Cornell University scientist Dr. Nathan Sitaraman has announced his bid for a seat in the Common Council representing Ithaca’s new Third Ward.

Sitaraman, who is running for the ward’s four-year seat, is the first candidate to declare their candidacy. Come next year, the Third Ward will have different representatives as Rob Gearhart has announced that he won’t be seeking reelection, while Jeffrey Barken will be stepping down in June.

The Ithaca Voice reported Monday that Sitaraman has the Working Families Party’s endorsement, is campaigning as a “progressive Democrat focused heavily on addressing systemic inequality, protecting reproductive rights, and improving our infrastructure.”

Prominent progressive figures in local government have endorsed him, including current Alderperson Jorge Defendini and Tompkins County Legislator Veronica Pillar.

Staff Report

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