By Michael Mroziak
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wbfo/local-wbfo-954305.mp3
Alden, NY – Jane Corwin is now the official Republican candidate to fill the vacancy in the 26th congressional district. The State Assemblywoman held a news conference in Alden, Wednesday, describing herself as a fiscal conservative who will work to cut federal spending and grow jobs.
Critics suggest Corwin's wealth put her to the front of the line among GOP hopefuls. But the candidate, whose family earned its fortune by founding and then selling the Talking Phone Book company, says it's her ideas that voters will consider.
"To me, a candidate can't buy a race because races aren't about money but ideas," Corwin said. "If the ideas I put out there make sense to the voters in the district, that is how I will get elected."
Corwin is running to fill the congressional seat vacated by Chris Lee, who resigned after a photo featuring him shirtless appeared on the Internet.
It now appears a special election in the 26th district could be delayed as the state acts on legislation to comply with federal regulations dealing with military voting. Governor Andrew Cuomo said Wednesday he is submitting a bill that would double the time between when a special election is announced and the actual date of the vote. He said his bill would create a 70 to 80 day timeframe.
"For years, New Yorkers serving in the military abroad have been inadvertently left out of the electoral process," Cuomo said in a statement. "This measure will rectify the discrepancy between New York state and federal laws regarding special elections, allow members of the military to have their voices heard, and ensure fair and accurate representation of the citizens of New York."
Cuomo is still not giving any hints on when he will call a special election. If and when he does so, it could be a three-way race.
Amherst businessman Jack Davis tells the Buffalo News he plans to run again even though Republicans have endorsed Corwin. The Democrats say they will nominate a Democrat.
Davis returned to the GOP last year after three failed runs as a Democrat in the 26th. Davis says he will run as an independent if necessary, and has committed to spending $3 million of his own money on the campaign.