GLENS FALLS, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- Glens Falls Mayor Bill Collins is dropping out of the race for re-election, citing the need for party unity. He served on the common council for eight years before being elected mayor four years ago.

He lost the democratic party primary election to Diana Palmer, the city's 3rd Ward councilwoman. Republicans do not have a candidate on the ballot, so Palmer has a clear path to election.

She issued a statement on Monday saying the news came as a surprise to her, saying "I want to thank Mayor Collins for his service to the city and for ensuring a smooth transition in the months ahead. Glens Falls is at an important moment, and I'm ready to get to work."

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