BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — Democrat Mike Keane has declared victory in the race for Erie County District Attorney, beating his Republican opponent James Gardner.
Keane has served as acting DA since March after former DA John Flynn stepped down. Before that, Keane served as First Deputy District Attorney for seven years.
Keane delivered a victory speech at the Erie County Democratic election-watch party at the Buffalo Convention Center Tuesday night describing his work for justice in the community.
@DAErieCountyNY Michael Keane declaring victory for a four year term. @WKBW pic.twitter.com/fJK1DEUI2H
— Eileen Buckley (@eileenwkbw) November 6, 2024
“Justice and fundamental fairness must be pursued continuously and tenuously by the people that work in the Erie County District Attorney’s Office, and we do that every day,” stated Keane.
Keane went into the race with wide support from a number of different law enforcement agencies. According to his campaign website, Keane received support from the Buffalo Police Union, Erie County Sheriff's Union and the Buffalo Firefighters Union among other groups.
Just last month, Keane and Gardner were hosted by St. Joseph's Collegiate Institute for a political debate. You can watch that entire debate below.
Keane faced difficult attack ads by his opponent. 7 News Senior Reporter Eileen Buckley asked him if he was worried at any point during the campaign.
"Was there any point that you were worried and concerned about winning?" Buckley asked.
"No, no," replied Keane.
"Not even during those vicious attack ads?" Buckley questioned.
"I was never worried," responded Keane.
