A compelling political narrative is unfolding in Buffalo, New York, where two prominent Black women, India Walton and Zeneta Everhart, are competing for a seat on the Common Council. This local election carries significant weight, particularly in the wake of the racially motivated mass shooting at Tops Friendly Market and the devastating December blizzard, both of which disproportionately impacted Buffalo’s Black community.
Walton, a former nurse and labor organizer, gained national attention in 2021 when she unexpectedly defeated incumbent Mayor Byron Brown in the Democratic primary. Her democratic socialist platform ultimately led to Brown's successful write-in campaign in the general election, backed by centrist Democrats, business leaders, and Republicans who viewed Walton as too progressive.
Everhart, a former television producer and state senate aide, became a public figure after her son, Zaire Goodman, was injured in the Tops supermarket shooting. Goodman survived a neck wound, but the incident propelled Everhart into advocacy against gun violence and racial injustice, including testifying before Congress.
While Everhart had considered running for the Masten district seat prior to the tragedy, she acknowledges that the outpouring of community support following the attack solidified her decision. She views her candidacy as a way to give back to the neighborhood that rallied around her family. The supermarket, a grim reminder of the city's trauma, sits just outside the district both women hope to represent.
The candidates offer contrasting approaches to leadership. Walton positions herself as a disruptor willing to challenge the established political order, while Everhart emphasizes her collaborative style and ability to build consensus. These distinct perspectives are reflected in their endorsements, with Walton backed by the Working Families Party and Everhart endorsed by the Erie County Democratic Party.
Despite their political differences, both women acknowledge a mutual respect. Everhart has stated that she doesn’t consider them adversaries. This race offers a unique glimpse into the complexities of local politics, where personal narratives intersect with broader societal issues.
The primary elections, taking place across New York State, will determine party nominees for various local positions, including county legislators, town supervisors, district attorneys, mayors, and New York City Council members. No statewide offices are up for election this year.
