Mark Benjamin has been nominated as the Republican candidate for the 131st Assembly District, setting up a new race this fall following Assemblyman Jeff Gallahan’s decision not to seek re-election.
Benjamin was selected by the Committee to Fill Vacancies and will carry the party’s banner into the November general election, with backing from Gallahan as he steps away from office amid health challenges.
In announcing his candidacy, Benjamin thanked Gallahan for his service, calling him a dedicated representative who consistently put constituents first. He also expressed appreciation to party leaders for their support and said he plans to spend the coming months meeting voters across the district, including families, farmers, business owners, and community leaders.
Benjamin framed his campaign around concerns with state leadership, criticizing one-party control in Albany and pointing to rising costs and population loss as key issues. He said his priorities include lowering utility bills, reducing taxes, and advocating for policies he believes better reflect the needs of upstate and rural communities.
The 131st Assembly District spans parts of Ontario, Seneca, Cayuga, Cortland, Madison, Broome, and Chenango counties.
Benjamin, a Seneca County resident of more than two decades, brings a background in business and community service to the race. He co-founded multiple businesses earlier in his career and has worked in community relations, where he has been involved in environmental and economic development efforts.
His civic involvement includes roles with the Seneca Falls Rotary, Seneca Falls-Waterloo Kiwanis, and the Seneca County Chamber of Commerce, where he previously served as chair. He has also held leadership positions with regional nonprofit organizations and received recognition from Rotary International for his service.
Benjamin said his campaign will focus on affordability, small business support, and increasing representation for rural communities in Albany.
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