Abdelazim to Submit Binghamton Mayoral Petitions

Tarik Abdelazim is preparing to formally announce his candidacy for mayor of the city of Binghamton.

The 43-year-old Abdelazim is expected to submit petitions to the Broome County Board of Elections on Tuesday to secure the Democratic party line in the November general election.

Supporters of the former city director of planning, housing and community development have been circulating petitions in Binghamton over the last several days.

A month ago, Broome County Democratic chairman Timothy Grippen announced his name would appear on petitions as a placeholder in an effort to ensure the party would appear on the ballot.

At the time, Grippen said "two good candidates" were still considering running for mayor but that they needed more time to make a final decision.

Abdelazim said he waited to make arrangements with his employer, the Center for Community Progress, before moving forward on his campaign.

Abdelazim's official announcement that he will run against Republican Mayor Richard David is expected on Wednesday.

Abdelazim said he has "loved" helping communities across the country but he remains "passionate" about his desire to improve things in the city of Binghamton.

Grippen had said Democrats found it difficult to line up candidates because local Republicans had used "Donald Trump style personal attack campaigns” against those who had earlier expressed an interest.

Grippen said Michael Treiman ended his challenge “after being assaulted and the safety of his family threatened.”

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