The race for the White House will likely wind through Western New York soon. The state's presidential primary is three weeks away and one of the nation's most powerful Democrats says New York is at play.
In exactly three weeks, registered party members will be able to vote in the state's presidential primary. And Senator Charles Schumer says regardless of political affiliation every New Yorker should be happy that the state finally matters.
In Buffalo on Monday, Schumer said usually by April races are settled. But given the contests underway, he says, New York could make the difference for Democrats and Republicans.
"What does that mean? It means first the candidates come here a lot more and pay more attention. And second, often they make promises that they keep when they become president," said Schumer
"I've always felt that the primary system has hurt us because they'll promise Ohio the sun, the moon and the stars, and ignore us. And now it's a little different. We're in play. Both parties. So, I think it's a great thing."
The Brooklyn Democrat is supporting his former colleague in the Senate, Hillary Clinton. Schumer says he believes Clinton will win the New York primary and go on to be the next president.