Sayegh Not Seeking Re-Election; McCracken Announces Candidacy for Legislature

By Holly Crocco

Local elected officials have begun circling an open seat for Putnam County Legislature after it was reported that Legislature Chairwoman Amy Sayegh, R-Mahopac Falls, will not be seeking re-election next year.

Sayegh allegedly notified party leaders Dec. 18 of her decision not to run again.

Within hours, Mahopac School Board Trustee Tanner McCracken announced his candidacy

“I’m a lifelong conservative Republican and a proven fighter for lower property taxes, real government transparency, affordability, and strong financial policies,” he posted on social media. “As your Mahopac School Board trustee, I didn’t just talk about these issues – I delivered results. Now it’s time to bring that same proactive, fresh leadership to the County Legislature.”

First elected in 2020 at the age of 20, McCracken was the youngest person ever to be elected to the Mahopac School Board. He is a 2017 Mahopac High School graduate and has been a resident of Mahopac since 2006.

In his announcement last week, McCracken cited crushing property taxes, the out-of-control cost of living, and unaffordability for seniors and young families as reasons he’s stepping up.

“Mahopac has been my home since I walked into Mahopac schools at 7 years old,” he said. “Serving my community and fighting to make sure my neighbors can afford to live here is personal to me… I’m ready to work hard, earn your support, and earn your vote.”

Republican Carmel Town Councilman Frank Lombardi also expressed interest in the seat.

“With Putnam County Legislator Amy Sayegh deciding not to seek another term on the Legislature in District 8, I have been asked to give strong consideration to running for her seat, in a district that I have lived in for over 20 years,” he wrote on Facebook.

Lombardi has 14 years of experience serving on the Carmel Town Board, having been deputy supervisor for more than 10 years.

“I am strongly contemplating running next year and will make a decision in the near future,” he wrote. “I hope to have the support of my neighbors and friends.”