Candidate withdraws from race for Democratic chairman

STAFF REPORT

YOUNGSTOWN — Sam Matheny, who was campaigning for the vacant Mahoning County Democratic Party chairmanship, is out of the race.

Also, Matheny, who works at the county board of elections, is throwing his support behind Atty. David Betras for the position.

“I am happy to accept Buck’s [Matheny’s nickname] endorsement and support and look forward to working with him and other Democrats in Mahoning County as we have much work ahead of us,” Betras said.

Jaladah Aslam, the party’s vice chairwoman of labor relations, is also campaigning for the seat, vacated last week by county Treasurer Lisa Antonini.

Those wanting to run for chairman — as well as the vacant position of party treasurer — have until 6 p.m. Tuesday to submit a letter of intent, dated and signed, to acting chairman Kenneth Carano.

As of Wednesday, no one else had contacted Carano to express interest in the position.

County Democratic precinct committee members will hear from the candidates and vote April 27.