County Legislator Clinton Young ousted three-term incumbent Ernest Davis in the Mt. Vernon Democratic mayoral primary, a result that sent shockwaves through the city.

Young edged out Davis with 52 percent of the vote, despite being outspent six to one during the campaign. Young?s bid to unseat Mayor Davis was bitter from the start. The race was marred by personal attacks and mudslinging between the former allies.

?What I saw reminded me of the segregated South; the intimidation tactics to keep people from voting,? said Young of the election.

Young thanked his supporters, who organized the grassroots campaign, saying their cause was bigger. Young said Davis? departure signifies the end of an era that was long overdue.

Davis humbly addressed his supporters and said he is proud of his tenure in the city. Davis said he will probably not challenge Young in the general election even though he has the support of the Independent and Conservative party lines.

Young must still win a general election race against Mount Vernon GOP Chairwoman Janet Snyder. However, the city is largely Democratic, so most people are anticipating a Young administration will be leading Mount Vernon by next year. Related Information Mt. Vernon mayor loses Democratic line Westchester Vote 2007 Primary Results