New Paltz, N.Y.,
pro-gay mayor loses election

The mayor of a New York town who presided over unofficial weddings for 24 gay and lesbian couples in 2004 lost his bid for reelection Tuesday. New Paltz mayor-elect Terry Dungan defeated Jason West by an unofficial vote of 514-379, according to the Associated Press. West's term will expire on May 31.

In February 2004, Ulster County charged West with 24 misdemeanor counts for performing the ceremonies in his capacity as a legal official. The charges were later dropped.

West has been described as a rising star of the Green Party and was endorsed by Ralph Nader a week before the election. (The Advocate)