The political winds are blowing Democrat in New York. The GOP is trying to hold on against that gale and keep its slim majority in the State Senate.
Three local Democrats have decided that the wind could fill their sails and carry them to victory over Joe Robach. Former State Senator, Rick Dollinger, resigned his judgeship so that he would be free to make the run. Brighton Supervisor, Sandy Frankel, jumped in less than 24 hours later. Finally, Rochester School Board member, Willa Powell, who previously lost to Robach (by a 2-1 margin) also decided to give it another shot.
The fact that these three plan to fight it out among each other is evidence that they all think the time is ripe for a Democrat win in the 56th Senate District. Frankel has been mentioned as a possible candidate so many times, for so many offices, I've lost count. She generally shies away from any contest she thinks she can't win. (The Lt.Gov. run doesn't count; I doubt she thought she could win, but it was a no lose effort since she did not have to give up her seat as Supervisor.) Dollinger gave up the seat rather than risk losing to Robach a few years ago; he feels the shift in the wind. Ms. Powell, well, she has little chance against the other two Democrats, let alone Joe Robach.
Either Frankel or Dollinger will be a formidable opponent for Robach. The fact is, the GOP is unlikely to hold on to the State Senate. This race will be close, and Joe may hang on, but the GOP has a number of vulnerable seats, so it seems quite likely that Joe Bruno will not be a thorn in Gov. Spitzer's side much longer.
Republican party strategists had hoped that Rudy Giuliani would be at the top of the ticket. Having a favorite son running for President could have brought a higher GOP turnout that might have helped Republicans running statewide. Now they will have to hope that John McCain runs a strong Presidential campaign.
Still, it may be entertaining to watch these three fight it out for the chance to run. Frankel and Dollinger's initial comments lead me to think this may not be a "genteel" battle.
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1 comment:
Repoman,
The Three Amigos attended and spoke at the Monroe County Legislative meeting Tuesday night. Some lawyers are known as ambulance chasers, these three candidates are news camera chasers.
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