Albany Herald

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Here it is.

That miraculous spawn of democracy that is election day. Sometimes, in the political process, when the sun sets on election day, a victor is crowned and the transition of power begins.

But, at least for the mayor's race, I don't think we'll know who the outright winner is for quite some time.

All three of the candidates are well-known, large personalities who command devout followings in their own segment of the community and that's why I believe, that when the polls close tonight, we'll end up with a runoff.

Now who will end up in the runoff is anyone's guess.

B.J. Fletcher is a rising political force in Albany whose followers view her as the agent of change that would turn the economic climate around in Albany.

Dorothy Hubbard, on the other hand, is heralded by her following as a principled official who incorruptibility -- as one supporter told me this weekend -- is what is needed in the mayor's chair.

Former State Rep. John White is a soldier of the old guard, a warrior in the legislature during the 70's, 80's and 90's who still resonates with a hardcore constituency that remembers his time in service under the Gold Dome.

With these three personalities dueling today, I can't see how any one candidate will be able to overcome that 50 percent plus 1 vote margin needed for an outright victory.

But, if there is one thing I'm even more sure of, it's that politics in this town are unpredictable at best.

So get out there and vote. Be a cheerleader for your candidate and get ready for round two...the runoff.