NY-25: Candidate Field Building

Now that veteran New York Rep. Louise Slaughter (D-Rochester) has been laid to rest after she unexpectedly passed away on March 16th, candidates are beginning to announce for the vacant 25th Congressional District.  Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D) has yet to announce whether he will call a special election or allow the seat to remain vacant until the regular November 6th vote.  If the special election is scheduled, the local political party leaders will determine nominees so no special primary election would be conducted.
 
Yesterday, supported by several individuals who were said to be considering their own candidacies, such as the late Congresswoman’s daughter, state Assembly Majority Leader Joe Morelle (D) announced his candidacy and immediately becomes the race favorite.  Brighton Town Board member Robin Wilt also joined the Democratic field.  On the Republican side, party leaders appear to be coalescing around surgeon James Maxwell who weeks ago launched a campaign against Rep. Slaughter.  Area State Sen. Joseph Robach (R) announced that he would not run for Congress and will support Dr. Maxwell.

--Jim Ellis