SYRACUSE, N.Y.— Throughout a heated campaign, Ben Walsh’s opponents dubbed him a “Republican in sheep’s clothing.” When he took the stage to declare victory Tuesday, he was flanked on either side by some of Syracuse’s best-known Democrats.

If you’d just wandered in from the street, you’d have thought you were at the Democratic victory party.

Newly elected Councilor Joe Driscoll (D) stood over Walsh’s right shoulder, nodding his head. To Walsh’s left was Council President-Elect Helen Hudson (D), grinning ear-to-ear. County Legislator Monica Williams (D) stood behind him, along with a beaming Katie Sojewicz (D) a handful of others.

In fact, the only Republicans onstage were Walsh’s parents, Jim and DeDe.

The city decisively elected Walsh Tuesday, making him the first mayor in 100 years who doesn’t belong to a major political party. He was swept into office with a Republican name and a cadre of powerful Democrats behind him.

In his corner were former chairmen of the city Democrats and the city Republicans. He had business owners, community activists and even that handful of elected officials.

Aside from making history, Walsh’s victory was a clear message from city voters to leaders of the two major parties: We don’t need you to pick our candidates.

By Chris Baker

cbaker@syracuse.com,

syracuse.com

Photo: syracuse.com