GOP showdown in the 130th

The Republican primary for New York’s 130th State Assembly District has emerged as one of the most competitive races in this month’s local primaries, following incumbent Brian Manktelow’s decision not to seek re-election. Three candidates—George Dobbins, Summer Johnson, and Mark Johns—are vying to represent a district covering Webster and all of Wayne County. Dobbins, endorsed by Monroe County Republicans and Manktelow himself, positions himself as a voice for younger voters, despite lacking prior elected experience. A Lyons native who studied law at Georgetown University, he currently practices real estate law in Rochester and has worked on Manktelow’s campaigns. His campaign slogan centers on bringing a new generation’s perspective to the district. Johnson, who served as Marion town supervisor from 2023 to 2024, frames herself as the candidate most aligned with the district’s conservative values, citing its 61% support for Donald Trump in the 2024 election. She argues her decade-long record better reflects the district’s principles compared to her opponents. Johns, the most experienced candidate, previously served in the Assembly from 2011 to 2021 and was appointed to the Monroe County Legislature in 2022. His campaign focuses on reforming Albany politics, particularly pushing for term limits, which he claims would address issues like part-time work, high salaries ($142,000 annually), and excessive perks for lawmakers. A video outlining these concerns launched his campaign. The winner of the GOP primary is expected to easily win the general election, as Republicans have held the district since 1855. The race underscores internal party divisions over leadership, experience, and policy priorities.