Army veteran, farmer, and longtime public servant Dave Knapp has officially launched his campaign for New York’s 126th Assembly District, promising to fight for affordability, public safety, and local control.
The district seat, which includes parts of Onondaga and Cayuga counties, is open following Assemblyman John Lemondes’ decision to run for Congress.
Knapp, a West Point graduate and former Army captain, currently serves on the Onondaga County Legislature. He framed his campaign as a response to what he called “one-party rule” in Albany.
“Governor Hochul and one-party rule in Albany have driven up costs, weakened public safety, and overreached with policies that hurt communities like ours,” Knapp said in his announcement. He pointed to state-backed green energy projects and bans on gas-powered appliances as examples of Albany pushing past local concerns.
Knapp has deep roots in the area — his family has farmed in southern Onondaga County since 1804. He returned to the family farm after serving in the military and went on to work in the insurance industry, town government, and eventually county leadership, including as chairman of the legislature.
Outside of politics, Knapp has long been involved in the community — volunteering for the local Apple Festival, mentoring students applying to service academies, and even once playing goalie in lacrosse.
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