Serino Set To Become Dutchess Exec; Parisi To Head DA Office

DUTCHESS COUNTY, NY — There was one county-wide victory for Republicans and one for Democrats Tuesday in Dutchess County.

Former state senator Sue Serino, a Republican, defeated Democrat Tommy Zurhellen for the county executive job.

According to unofficial results, Serino received 38,666 votes, or 57 percent, to Zurhellen’s 29,596, or 43 percent.

“Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, to our community for putting your trust and support in me,” Serino said on Facebook. “I am truly honored to be able to continue serving Dutchess County.”

The job of county executive opened up after Marc Molinaro was elected to Congress to represent New York’s 19th District. William F.X. O’Neill completed Molinaro’s term as executive.

Serino’s Senate district was redrawn and she lost the seat to incumbent Michelle Hinchey.

Dutchess County’s district attorney’s position became up for grabs when William Grady, a Republican, retired after four decades. Who would replace him became an in-house race.

On Tuesday, Democrat Anthony Parisi bested Republican Matthew Weishaupt 34,810 to 32,539, according to unofficial results.

Parisi is the DA’s office’s major crimes bureau chief, and Weishaupt is the chief assistant district attorney.

On Facebook, Parisi thanked his supporters.

“The people have spoken,” he said, “and I look forward to serving you as your next District Attorney.”