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Hudson will have a new mayor in 2026 as Joseph Ferris, a Democrat, has won the mayoral race. Incumbent Mayor Kamal Johnson conceded the election on Wednesday (November 12), after trailing Ferris by over 40 votes. Johnson, who ran on the Working Families Party line, acknowledged his defeat despite winning four of the five write-in votes counted that day.
Ferris, a government relations manager, ran his campaign on promises of a more efficient city hall and improving pedestrian safety. He expressed gratitude for the support from Hudson residents, saying, "I’m honored that the voters of Hudson trusted me to become their next mayor." Ferris plans to engage with city officials and department heads before taking office in January.
The election was closely contested, with Ferris receiving 49% of the votes and Johnson 46%. According to the Times Union, Johnson performed well in the city's more diverse and long-term resident areas, securing 72% of the vote in the Second Ward. However, Ferris gained strong support in the wealthier First Ward, where he received 72% of the vote.
Johnson, who has been mayor since 2019, reflected on his tenure, highlighting achievements in housing and community engagement. He expressed no regrets about his campaign and wished Ferris success in his new role. Johnson stated he has no immediate plans for the future but assured residents he would remain involved in the community.