In a dimly lit corner of Consol’s restaurant, Binghamton University student Anthony Galli sat nursing a beer, waiting for the election results for Broome County Legislature.
At 10:12 p.m., Galli announced his loss to Democrat incumbent Daniel Reynolds by a nearly 2-to-1 vote.
Galli, a junior majoring in political science, announced in September that he would run for Broome County Legislator on the Republican and Student Voice Party lines.
Fifteen people attended Galli’s election night viewing party. The event featured free food and live coverage of the presidential election results.
The night began on a high note, with attendees talking, joking and enjoying the food. The little restaurant was covered with posters in support of Galli.
“I woke up this morning and just felt tired, but as soon as I walked in the door, I was so excited to see all the signs, the food, my friends,” Galli said. “It was a source of comfort.”
As the night went on, Galli expressed how the pressure of waiting for the results was affecting him.
“I think — I’m going crazy,” Galli said. “I am excited for what will be, and I am nervous for what will be. I just want that moment to come, but I don’t want it to come.”
Galli announced the results from each of the polling places as they came in. Despite being behind every time, attendees cheered for the votes he did receive.
When the final results came in, the entire party applauded Galli, followed by a “Rally for Galli” chant.
Galli, looking exhausted and older than he really is, took his loss with stride.
“It was a roller coaster, with a lot of highs and lows,” Galli said. “I’m very grateful to all my friends for being here for me. I never thought that I would be in a position to run in a [county] election at 21.”
Christopher Giamanco, a senior majoring in finance, said he was impressed by Galli’s efforts.
“The event was great, and his entire campaign was incredible,” Giamanco said. “To start a campaign only 4 to 5 months ago is insane.”
Giamanco said he hopes to see Galli run again in the future.
“I hope that he continues to fight, and that he really continues to explore politics,” Giamanco said.
According to Galli, he is uncertain about whether he will run again.
“Who knows what the future will hold?” Galli said.