For those not aware, NY-29 is the seat formerly held by Eric Massa. Governor Patterson has no intention of setting a special election citing the cost to taxpayers. With Eric Massa gone, GOP candidate Tom Reed for months has been pleading for a special election. Now his path is no longer guaranteed.
Meet the tea party inspired activist Angelo Campini. Via local blog The Fighting 29th came across this quote
"I find his campaign to be a little out of the can," Campini said. "I don’t believe for a second he didn’t have this planned all along. Running for mayor (of Corning) was no more than a stepping stone. He’s a lawyer, he’s got plenty of connections. He probably felt it was time for him to take the next step and join the big boys. His responses are straight from the Republican Party talking points."
Checking his website (go google it) he has a cogent solid tea party platform talking points - Investing Social Security in the stock market, ending federal income taxes etc. On a hunch did some snooping and found through a google search you are led to a error page of Mr. Campini from the We Surround Rochester, Glenn Beck's 912 Project.
Suspicions warranted and confirmed!
Delving further into the original source of the quote above from the Corning Leader
"I’ve been saying rhetorically for a year that I’d run for office if I could," Campini said. "The situation presented itself. Our seat is an open seat. One day I looked myself in the mirror and said ‘If I don’t do this, I’m a hypocrite.’ People have had enough politics as usual. They want to take back our government."
How bitterly ironic?! We all owe Glenn Beck and Fox News are hearty kudos. Without their inspiration and red meat irrational alarming rhetoric, Tom Reed wouldln't have a primary opponent. I'm sure he's thanking Glenn Beck right now.
On the Democratic side is the only declared candidate, Matt Zeller, local guy and Afghan combat vet. On a personal note, I went to college with Matt so call me biased when I say this: he is shrewd, innovating thinker, and a knack for problem solving. I'm sure they will all be on full display on the campaign trail.
This will be an interesting race to follow from now til November.
If you can spare a donation for Mr. Zeller, send some dollars his way or join his Facebook page:
Act Blue Page: Matt Zeller for Congress
Facebook: Matt Zeller