Syracuse, NY — Common Councilor Chol Majok is aware that he came in third place in Tuesday's three-candidate mayor primary election.
However, Majok, who is 40 years old, insisted that His inclusion on the ballot was a victory for refugees and immigrants. and other minority communities.
"Such an opportunity allows us to amplify the voices of those who are marginalized," Majok stated. Around 11 p.m. on Tuesday, after admitting defeat in the Democratic primary to Deputy Mayor Sharon Owens, he stated, "It can be challenging to oppose the established order. This battle must be constructed piece by piece."
Majok has often stated that he never considers a political contest lost, as each one serves as a valuable lesson.
I never fail," he stated. "Throughout this journey to reach our goal, we acquired more than we relinquished.
Majok became the First individual formerly displaced as a refugee chosen for city-wide position When he secured an at-large council seat two years ago, he was optimistic about leveraging that success to win the mayoral race.
Rather than beginning otherwise, Majok addressed his supporters at 10:45 p.m., commencing with recognizing Owens' win, stating that she had captured "the public’s affection."
Majok secured roughly 15% of the votes in the city’s Democratic primary, coming in third place behind Owens and City Councillor Pat Hogan, based on preliminary results from Tuesday evening.
For his followers, Majok depicted a grim outlook for Syracuse's future under the leadership of Mayor Ben Walsh, who was Owens' superior, particularly concerning the city's young people.
Syracuse isn't doing well at all," Majok said to his followers. "It has been brought low. Children are actually worse off today compared to eight years back, which wasn’t great either.
Majok stated that his campaign centered around the newly formed American community, simultaneously extending a hand to individuals from all ethnic backgrounds who felt disillusioned.
Born in South Sudan, he arrived in Syracuse amidst a large influx of refugees referred to as the "Lost Boys." Currently, he holds a leadership position in workforce development at St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center.
Majok resides in the Elmwood district of the city. Having attended local educational institutions, he graduated from the city’s school system. Majok holds a Bachelor’s degree from the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University. Furthermore, he acquired a Master’s degree from the University of Albany followed by earning a Ph.D. in Education from St. John Fisher University located in Rochester.
Majok has two additional years remaining in his four-year tenure on the city’s Common Council.
We enjoyed a tremendous journey," Majok said to supporters at Ocean Bites restaurant on the North Side. "I've faced many challenges. Being here today feels like both an honor and a privilege.
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