John Safford (left) and Michele Madigan.

By Michael Mashburn From Daily Voice

Polls are closed in New York, where voters in Saratoga Springs decided who will lead the city for the next four years.

Republican incumbent John Safford was leading Democratic challenger Michele Madigan by 52% by 48%, with 96% of precincts reporting, as of 12:05 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 5, early returns showed.

Safford, a retired US Army lieutenant, first won election in 2023, becoming the city’s first Republican mayor in a decade. His re-election campaign has focused on restoring civility and efficiency to city government, strengthening partnerships with nonprofits and local institutions, and maintaining public order — including his support for a camping ban on city property. He also created a Charter Review Commission to examine potential updates to the city’s governing structure.

Madigan, who previously served five terms as Commissioner of Finance, has campaigned on affordable housing, streamlined permitting, and sustainability initiatives. She has promoted a “housing-first” approach to addressing homelessness and voiced opposition to punitive measures like camping bans.

The winner will oversee a city of nearly 29,000 residents known for its tourism, economic growth, and active civic engagement.

Official certification by the Saratoga County Board of Elections will be made in the coming days.