With just days to go before Election Day, a historic number of women are running for local office across Ontario County — many of them challenging the region’s long-held political norms.
Democrats and independent candidates are contesting more seats than ever, giving voters real choices in town, village, and city races that have long been dominated by Republicans.
Among the most notable developments: more women are stepping up to run — and they’re doing it together. A group of women candidates gathered in front of the Ontario County Courthouse this week to mark the moment. The courthouse is the same one where Susan B. Anthony once walked through the doors to cast her now-famous ballot.
The photo op wasn’t just symbolic — it was a reminder of how far the county has come and how many more voices are seeking a seat at the table.
Here are just some of the women running this year:
- Rebecca Keogh – Bristol Town Board
- Sheila Sulli – East Bloomfield Town Board
- Jamie Lee Hall – South Bristol Town Board
- Lisa Maslyn – Gorham Town Board
- Peggy Gochenaur – East Bloomfield Town Clerk
- Birgit Marie Coffey – West Bloomfield Town Board
- Julie Eveleigh – West Bloomfield Town Board
- Lisa Moore – South Bristol Supervisor
- Kim Aliperti – Geneva Town Board
- Jan Regan – Geneva Wards 3 & 4 Supervisor
The slate represents a broad cross-section of towns across the county — from Geneva to Gorham, from South Bristol to West Bloomfield.
According to organizers, there are 101 open seats in this election cycle and 74 non-Republican candidates running — including 49 Democrats. It’s a significant shift in a county where local governments have historically leaned heavily red.
The group behind the effort says the goal isn’t just to win seats — it’s to show voters that they have real options and that their voices matter.
With just seven days left until voters head to the polls, these candidates are making one final push to inspire turnout — and change.
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