A Syracuse University student has entered the race for the 120th Assembly District, setting up a challenge to Oswego County Legislature Chairman Jim Weatherup.
Maurice Waldron announced Friday that he is running for the Central New York Assembly seat after Weatherup became the first candidate to enter the race following Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay’s decision not to seek reelection.
Waldron said he is a pre-law student at Syracuse University pursuing a degree in Political Science and Public Policy. He said he is running because he believes Oswego County residents “deserve a representative who understands their struggles, shares their values, and am ready to fight for their future.”
He criticized long-time officeholders, saying voters deserve “more than someone who has been in elected positions for over 23 years with no real victories for our county.”
Waldron said he has lived in Oswego County for nearly a decade and graduated from Paul V. Moore High School, where he served as class president and played varsity football and wrestled. He said those experiences shaped his work ethic and leadership style.
He said his studies focus on how policy decisions affect everyday people, especially in rural communities.
Waldron also pointed to his personal experience living with Type 1 diabetes as a reason for entering the race. He said families should not have to choose between their health and financial stability and called for better representation for working-class residents.
He said he supports quality education for students in cities, suburbs, and rural towns. He also described himself as a strong supporter of the Second Amendment and said he grew up hunting and fishing.
Waldron said he wants to protect rural traditions and support local businesses while pushing policies that help families remain in their communities.
“I am ready to bring energy, accountability, and a fresh perspective to Albany—and to fight every day for the people of Oswego County,” Waldron said.
Weatherup, a Republican from Central Square, previously announced his campaign for the open seat. He has said he plans to focus on affordability, agriculture, infrastructure, and public safety.
The 120th District includes all of Oswego County and part of northern Cayuga County. Republicans hold a 2-to-1 enrollment edge in the district.
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