Garnell Whitfield plans to run for mayor of Buffalo, sources say

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — Sources told WIVB News 4 Monday that former City of Buffalo Fire Commissioner Garnell Whitfield plans to run for mayor of Buffalo.

Last week, longtime Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown was offered the position of Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corporation’s next CEO and president. In a statement, Brown said a contract must be negotiated before the position is accepted.

He called it “an exciting opportunity” and said for now, he is still fully committed to his role as mayor.

Whitfield is the son of Ruth Whitfield, who was killed in the Tops mass shooting on May 14, 2022.

He declined to comment when News 4 asked whether he’s running.

If Brown does resign from office, Buffalo’s City Charter says that the Buffalo Common Council president becomes the acting mayor, which is a role currently held by Chris Scanlon.

Buffalo’s mayoral election will take place in November 2025.

Katie Skoog joined the News 4 team in April 2024. She is a graduate from the University at Buffalo. You can view more of her work here .