By David Tyler

Matt Johnson, a 2019 graduate from East Syracuse Minoa Central High School, announced last week that he is running for the Onondaga County Legislature. He is vying for the Democratic nomination for the third district, which encompasses the town of Cicero and portions of the northern part of the town of Manlius, including parts of Fremont, Minoa and Kirkville.

Johnson, 19, serves as vice president for Tillie’s Touch, a local nonprofit whose mission is to mentor youth in education and sports.

“I will proudly advocate for solutions on issues that affect everyday people within our county,” Johnson said of his candidacy. “This campaign will be discussing the importance of fiscal responsibility with taxpayer dollars, the need for transparency within county government, and building a better future for Onondaga County.”

In 2019, Johnson managed Rita Paniagua’s successful campaign for Syracuse Common Council and in 2020 he managed Shadia Tadros’ campaign for Syracuse City Court judge.

“These experiences have allowed me to grasp a good understanding of the political process, and I am also proud to say that both of those women are now elected officials,” Johnson said.

The Onondaga County Democratic Committee is expected to make its nominations by Feb. 17.

On Feb. 8, Johnson said he is currently the only one vying for the Democratic nomination.

Republican Tim Burtis, of Brewerton, is the incumbent in the third district. He has held the seat since 2015.