The Citizen staff report

Area Democrats have crossed party lines and endorsed Republican David Gould for Cayuga County sheriff.

Gould said the move is an indication people are looking for change.

Gould is challenging fellow Republican incumbent Rob Outhouse in the November election.

The Cayuga County Democratic Committee voted Monday night to endorse Gould after "several committee members spoke very highly of him," said party chair Laurie Michelman.

Gould said the cross-party endorsement was a significant step in his campaign.

"We were embraced wholeheartedly by the Democratic committee, and we're very proud of it," Gould said.

"I will certainly take this momentum into the future," he said. "I believe the citizens of our county are looking for a change in leadership at the sheriff's department and this change will come in the November election."

"He's very involved in human services and in the community," Michelman said.

The committee also endorsed current Auburn corporation counsel Tom Leone for Cayuga County Court Judge and Aurora farmer Barbara King for the 123rd Assembly District seat currently held by Republican Gary Finch.

Michelman said the committee's support of Leone was unanimous.

"He's clearly qualified," she said. "He'll make an excellent judge."

King, a political newcomer, showed Democratic committee members "she has the ability to fight for issues," Michelman said.

The committee also reconfirmed Monday its previous endorsements, which include incumbent David Valesky for the 49th Senate District; Michael Arcuri for the 25th Congressional seat now held by retiring U.S. Rep. Sherwood Boehlert; and Dan Maffei for the 25th Congressional seat held by incumbent Republican James Walsh.

"The committee is thrilled to endorse the entire slate," Michelman said. "It's a very strong team."