Jim Barber, an announced candidate for the New York State Senate seat in the 51st district and the would-be Democratic challenger to Sen. Jim Seward, issued this statement upon the notice of Seward's retirement.

"I wish Senator Seward and his family all the best as he focuses on his health. I want to thank him for his more than three decades of public service and hope to build upon the work that he has done to bring resources to our rural communities."

- Jim Barber, Candidate for New York State Senate District 51

The 51st Senate District covers all or part of these counties:  Otsego, Delaware, Cayuga, Chenango, Herkimer, Tompkins and Ulster counties.

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