Pooler was considered a leading prospect of a Democratic gain. But her Republican opponent that year, Syracuse City Councilman James T. Walsh, was a much more difficult target for her attacks. Walsh won handily, with Pooler winning only 42% of the vote.
Despite being seen as a potential gain for Democrats, Pooler faced a tougher challenge from her Republican rival, Syracuse City Councilman James T. Walsh, who won the election decisively.  Pooler garnered only 42% of the votes cast.