Garnell Whitfield plans to run for mayor of Buffalo, sources say

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — Sources told WIVB News 4 Monday that former City of Buffalo Fire Commissioner Garnell Whitfield plans to run for mayor of Buffalo.

Last week, longtime Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown was offered the position of Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corporation’s next CEO and president. In a statement, Brown said a contract must be negotiated before the position is accepted.

He called it “an exciting opportunity” and said for now, he is still fully committed to his role as mayor.

Whitfield is the son of Ruth Whitfield, who was killed in the Tops mass shooting on May 14, 2022.

He declined to comment when News 4 asked whether he’s running.

If Brown does resign from office, Buffalo’s City Charter says that the Buffalo Common Council president becomes the acting mayor, which is a role currently held by Chris Scanlon.

Buffalo’s mayoral election will take place in November 2025.

Latest Local News

Tonawanda to install four-way stop where teen was killed

Grand Island student struck, killed on South Parkway

Save Our Buffalo Churches group claims church closures are against Canon Law

Buffalo Common Council President Chris Scanlon says he’s getting his ducks in a row for possible acting mayor position

Chautauqua County man admits to aiding kidnapping in connection with PA murder

Katie Skoog joined the News 4 team in April 2024. She is a graduate from the University at Buffalo. You can view more of her work here.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo.