Eight candidates are vying to replace the retiring Jack McEneny in the 109th Assembly district. It is the first time in 20 years that someone has a shot at the Assembly seat that includes the state Capitol. Hudson Valley Bureau Chief Dave Lucas reports.
Issues, Answers and Endorsements are spread across a six-candidate Democratic field: William McCarthy Jr. is a lawyer and political newcomer making his first bid for public office. He considers himself among the front runners going into Thrusday's primary.
McCarthy is an assistant attorney general working in the administration of NY AG Eric Schneidermann.
Patricia Fahy has been endorsed by the Albany Times Union, the Working Families Party and Citizen Action and she says she "feels good" about the hotly contested race. She's been called "the darling of establishment Democrats" but would like to see Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver included in the latest ethic investigation.
Albany Common Councilman Frank Commisso Jr. carries the endorsement of Mayor Jerry Jennings - he is the son of powerful city Democrat Frank Commisso - he's also taken a stand on the situation involving Sheldon Silver.
Albany County Legislator Chris Higgins for the last 5 years has represented Albany's Center Square neighborhood - a big opponent of the city's proposed 220-million dollar downtown convention center, he'd rather see a community college set up a downtown branch.
Some consider Former Albany County Executive Jim Coyne a "dark horse" on the race card.
Coyne favors eliminating New York's Sales Tax on clothing and home heating oil...
Ted Danz and Joe Sullivan are the two Republicans vying for the 109th seat - Danz is in a primary race against Fahy for the Independence Party Line...
Danz says he's the only businessman on the ballot and the only candidate who doesn't live in the city of Albany.
Republican Joe Sullivan and Democratic candidate Margarita Perez could not be reached in time for broadcast.
