Hayes Clement, a Democrat and former candidate for mayor, has withdrawn from the race for Kingston’s Ward 3 Common Council seat citing professional and family responsibilities. Despite suspending his campaign, his name will still appear on the June 24 Democratic primary ballot. He has thrown his support behind Marissa Marvelli, his opponent in the race.
Clement, who had previously secured the endorsement of the city’s Democratic Committee, stated that recent changes in his business and increased personal commitments made it impractical to continue his campaign. He expressed confidence in Marvelli’s community involvement and encouraged voters to back her candidacy.
Party officials consider it unlikely that Clement will win the primary. However, should he be elected and choose not to serve, the vacancy would be filled through an appointment process until the next general election in 2026. Marvelli is set to appear on the November ballot regardless of the primary results, running on the Working Families line. She will compete against Joe DiFalco, who is running on the Conservative line. The seat is currently held by Democrat Reynolds Scott-Childress, who is not seeking re-election.
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