A local high school teacher is turning to politics, hoping to replace longtime state senator John DeFrancisco in Albany.
John Mannion is seeking the democratic nomination for the 50th district seat.
Mannion, a biology teacher at West Genesee High School, says he's passionate about environmental issues, as well as education.
He says he's a political outsider, but one who knows how the system works from his time advocating for education reform and funding in Albany.
Mannion says his background makes him the ideal candidate to work across the aisle.
"I've been a teacher for 25 years, which means I get a fresh set of bosses every 41 minutes and there are usually 25 or 26 of those,” said Mannion.
DeFrancisco is currently seeking the Republican nomination in the race for Governor.