Rufus Elefante
Politician from Utica, New York / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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Rufus Pasquale "Rufie" Elefante (April 11, 1903 – November 15, 1994) was an American political boss from Utica, New York.[1] Originally a Republican, who worked as a trucker, Elefante rose to power during the late 1920s. Though he never held public office,[2] he came to control the Democratic political machine in Utica, which dominated Utica politics from the 1930s through the 1950s. Although the machine oversaw a period of economic stability for Utica, its tolerance of organized crime led to widespread corruption and vice, giving Utica the nickname "Sin City".[3] Elefante was the most powerful figure in Oneida County during his time, and is still regarded as the Utica politician with the largest legacy. He remains a very controversial figure in Utica politics.[1]
Rufus Pasquale Elefante | |
---|---|
Chairman of the Utica Democratic Committee | |
In office 1928–1980s | |
Personal details | |
Born | (1903-04-11)April 11, 1903 |
Died | November 15, 1994(1994-11-15) (aged 91) |
Occupation | Political boss, trucker |