(From the diaries with a few light edits. Be sure to bookmark Jonah's NY-13 Blog for the latest news on this race. - promoted by James L.)
All signs point to a McMahon vs. Harrison primary on the Democratic side of this race. Today brings us news that we might also have a primary on the Republican side. Dr. Jamshad Wyne (R), GOP Finance Chair in Staten Island has indeed entered the race;
The Todt Hill resident, who has gone back and forth on the race over the last two weeks, announced yesterday he would challenge Frank Powers, a Metropolitan Transportation Authority board member and retired Wall Street executive, for the GOP congressional nod.
Wyne had stated after Frank Powers won the Richmond County GOP endorsement that he likely would vote for the Democrat Mike McMahon. There is a lot of frustration on the GOP side among ranking members with their party's choice. If Wyne does follow through and challenges Powers in a primary that would be even better news for us. My guess though is we will see the party get him out, whether offering him the nomination for another office or just removing him from the party leadership.
Also interesting is the possibility that the Conservative Party will break with the GOP nomination and support their own candidate, possibly Paul Atanasio. If this happens this seats even further to a likely pick up for us. Primaries are scheduled for September 9th.
As Democrats, we have an incredible opportunity before us, to turn a red seat blue and bring true change and real leadership to the residents in Staten Island and Brooklyn. That will not happen if we are not united as a party.
Therefore, I am withdrawing my bid for the 13th Congressional district, and will support our party's nominee, Mike McMahon.
Thank you to all of the people who believed in me, worked for me and fought for me over the last year - especially those who encouraged me to stay in the race despite the altered political landscape.
Most of all, I would like to thank the voters of the congressional district, who welcomed me with open arms and believed in my message.
I have not made any decisions about my political future and have no further comment at this time.
