NORWICH – District Attorney Joseph A. McBride announced his candidacy for Chenango County Judge at a gathering of his supporters shortly after noon Thursday in downtown Norwich.

Speaking to the crowd from the steps of the Chenango County Courthouse, McBride cited his extensive legal experience as his most compelling qualification for the post. “I have participated in over 65 jury trials over the past 28 years,” he said, “and have been involved in almost every major criminal trial in Chenango County in the last 20 years.”

McBride was first elected Chenango’s District Attorney in 1999. Among numerous community involvements, he is also a first-term member of the Norwich City Schools Board of Education.

The County, Surrogate and Family Court judge position has been held for the last 12 years by the Hon. W. Howard Sullivan, who will be retiring at the end of 2012. McBride, a Republican, is the second candidate to announce his interest in the position. Norwich attorney Frank Revoir, also a Republican, announced his candidacy Monday. The contest will necessitate a GOP primary for the Republican spot on November’s ballot, although the time frame for that primary has not yet been set by the state.

A complete story will appear in Friday’s edition of The Evening Sun.