In an unusual development, Primary Day 2012 was scheduled on a Thursday; it also featured an unusual number of closely-watched races.
Political newcomer Mike Amodeo won the Democratic Primary in the 60th Senate District over former County Legislator Charles Swanick and longtime politician Alfred Coppola.
Amodeo now faces incumbent Mark Grisanti, the Republican who has been assailed by Conservatives for his vote in favor of same-sex marriage, and Swanick, who has earned the Conservative Party line.
"This district is a Democratic district and deserves democratic representation in Albany," Amodeo said in a statement released following the vote count.
In the 62nd Senate District's Republican Primary, incumbent George Maziarz routed challenger Johnny Destino.
Former East Aurora Mayor David DiPietro won the Republican Primary in the 147th Assembly District. DiPietro beat Daniel Humiston, David Mariacher and Chris Lane to earn the GOP nod in a district that enjoys heavy Republican registration. Christina Abt awaits in the November election.the Independence Primary last night by 70%.
Chris Scanlon won the all-important Democratic Primary in Buffalo's South District Council race.
Anthony Verel will be the Republican candidate in a district that has long been a Democratic stronghold.