Morinello victorious in 145th Assembly District

Collins, Higgins re-elected, Jacobs tops Small

Former Niagara Falls City Court Judge Angelo Morinello has defeated incumbent Assemblyman John Ceretto in the 145^th district.

In Niagara County, Morinello, a Republican, topped Ceretto, a Democrat, by 2,607 votes (20,829 to 18,222). In Erie County, Morinello bested his opponent by 1,855 votes (5,719-3,864). In total, Morinello had 55 percent of the votes cast.

Ceretto did not show up at an election party in downtown Niagara Falls. The audience was told he was looking into absentee ballots.

Just before 11:30 p.m., Ceretto conceded the election. In an email, he said, "I congratulate my opponent, Angelo Morinello, for winning a hardfought race. Western New York families deserve a state Assembly representative who will clean up the corruption in Albany, lower taxes, bring funding to our area for better roads and bridges and create more good-paying job opportunities. I am proud of the campaign that I ran and I give a heartfelt thanks to all of those who supported me along the way. I wish Mr. Morinello well in Albany."

Ceretto was first elected in 2010.

Republican Congressman Chris Collins released the following statement announcing his successful re-election as the representative for New York's 27th District.

"I am honored and humbled to be re-elected by the hardworking people of New York's 27th District," he said. "Voters here in NY-27 have chosen to reject the status quo in Washington and support individuals focused on creating economic opportunities for all Americans.

"This election has brought several vital issues for Western New York to the national forefront. I will continue to fight to bring back our manufacturing jobs, secure our borders, negotiate better trade deals, and stand up to our enemies. Western New Yorkers can count on me to advocate for their interests and enact policies that protect the hardworking families in our community."

Collins defeated Democrat Diana Kastenbaum.

In the 26^th Congressional District, Democrat Brian Higgins defeated Republican Shelly Schratz.

Meanwhile, in the 60^th Senate district, Republican Chris Jacobs bested Democrat Amber Small.

All election results are unofficial.