Christy Bianconi announces candidacy for county legislature

Christy Bianconi (D), LCSW-R, has officially announced her candidacy for Tompkins County Legislature, District 14, in the 2026 election. With 30 years of residency in Tompkins County and 20 years in human services, Bianconi brings a wealth of experience to the race. A dedicated mental health professional, she served four years as a Supervising Psychiatric Social Worker with the Tompkins County Mental Health Department, leading crisis intervention and supporting vulnerable residents. 

“We need more frontline voices in office—people who understand the real challenges our community faces because they’ve lived and worked through them,” Bianconi said. “Too often, career politicians lose sight of how their policies affect everyday people. Frontline workers see that gap firsthand, and I’m running to make sure our community gets the resources and support we deserve.” 

Currently a Clinical Quality Manager expanding mental health access statewide, Bianconi leverages her county roots and policy know-how. Her campaign prioritizes:  

• Affordable Living – Tackling rising property taxes (+$115 this year), soaring rents ($1,500 median), and the living wage gap.  
• Housing & Homelessness – Pushing for shelters like Cherry Street and opioid recovery services.  
• Mental Health & Social Services – Expanding care to cut opioid overdoses (34 in 2023).  
• Equity & Sustainability – Defending our triple sanctuary status and energy efficiency.  
• Government Accountability – Securing Upstate’s fair share from Albany’s $227 billion budget. 

Bianconi lives with her partner and two stepsons in an energy-efficient West Hill farmhouse, a testament to her sustainability commitment. She’s proud that her campaign is run by close friends and family—none of them career politicians, but an authentic grassroots group that nearly tripled the required petition signatures, gathering over 200 when only 85 were needed. She’s listening, learning, and ready to fight for a stronger, more affordable future—guided by her pledge: “Listening to You, Fighting for Us.” 

Join her campaign at community events, listening sessions, and grassroots efforts ahead. Visit Christy4tompkins.com (with a contact form) or follow @christy4tompkins on Facebook.