Elmira mayor's unlikely election chronicled in new book

Retired astronaut Eileen Collins speaks at local career event

Mar. 13, 2026 at 9:27am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A new book chronicles the unlikely election of Elmira mayor John Tonello, who faced opposition from his own Democratic party when he decided to run. Tonello, a retired astronaut and Elmira native, was the keynote speaker at a local Aviation Career Day event.

Why it matters

Tonello's election victory despite party opposition highlights the challenges of the political establishment and the desire for new voices and perspectives in local government. His story also showcases the accomplishments of Elmira native Eileen Collins, a retired astronaut who returned to her hometown to inspire the next generation of aviation professionals.

The details

According to the report, Tonello joined the Chemung County Democratic Committee but felt frustrated by the expectation that he should "wait his turn" before running for office. Despite this opposition, he decided to run for mayor of Elmira and was ultimately elected. The article also mentions that Collins, an Elmira native, was the keynote speaker at a local Aviation Career Day event, where she discussed her aviation career with students.

  • Tonello joined the Chemung County Democratic Committee prior to deciding to run for mayor.
  • Tonello was elected mayor of Elmira.
  • Eileen Collins, a retired astronaut and Elmira native, was the keynote speaker at a local Aviation Career Day event.

The players

John Tonello

The mayor of Elmira who faced opposition from his own Democratic party when he decided to run for office.

Eileen Collins

A retired astronaut and Elmira native who was the keynote speaker at a local Aviation Career Day event.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I joined the Chemung County Democratic Committee, but I was frustrated by the feeling I got that I should 'wait my turn' and spend a year or two sitting on the bench”

— John Tonello, Mayor of Elmira

The takeaway

Tonello's election victory despite party opposition highlights the desire for new voices and perspectives in local government, while Collins' return to Elmira to inspire the next generation of aviation professionals showcases the positive impact that accomplished individuals can have on their hometown communities.