The race in New York’s 23rd Congressional District just keeps getting more interesting:
Scozzafava released the following statement at 2 :06 p.m.:
I want to thank you for your support and friendship. Over the past 24 hours, I have had encouraging words sent to my family and me. Many of you have asked me whom you should support on Tuesday.
Since announcing the suspension of my campaign, I have thought long and hard about what is best for the people of this District, and how to answer your questions. This is not a decision that I have made lightly.
You know me, and throughout my career, I have been always been an independent voice for the people I represent. I have stood for our honest principles, and a truthful discussion of the issues, even when it cost me personally and politically. Since beginning my campaign, I have told you that this election is not about me; it’s about the people of this District.
It is in this spirit that I am writing to let you know I am supporting Bill Owens for Congress and urge you to do the same.
It’s not in the cards for me to be your representative, but I strongly believe Bill is the only candidate who can build upon John McHugh’s lasting legacy in the U.S. Congress. John and I worked together on the expansion of Fort Drum and I know how important that base is to the economy of this region. I am confident that Bill will be able to provide the leadership and continuity of support to Drum Country just as John did during his tenure in Congress.
In Bill Owens, I see a sense of duty and integrity that will guide him beyond political partisanship. He will be an independent voice devoted to doing what is right for New York. Bill understands this district and its people, and when he represents us in Congress he will put our interests first.
Please join me in voting for Bill Owens on Tuesday. To address the tough challenges ahead, we must rise above partisanship and politics and work together. There’s too much at stake in this election to do otherwise.
This probably shouldn’t come as a surprise considering that Scozzafava’s husband endorsed Owens earlier today.
What impact this has on the outcome is anyone’s guess, but I personally wouldn’t believe any poll that comes out at this point. There’s too much changing too fast for anyone to accurately measure what voters are thinking.
This is going to be fun to watch.
November 1st, 2009 at 4:02 pm
And this surprises … why?
November 1st, 2009 at 4:49 pm
This is lose-lose for my conservative friends. A Hoffman win affirms the terrible schism on the right. A Hoffman loss signals that the over-hyped palin-power is just that. The headline “conservative wins in conservative district” is not news.
But most of all, a Hoffman loss seems to mean that the voters of this district will get representation by someone who is actually versed in the issues, and actually lives there. A Hoffman loss is a win for them.
November 1st, 2009 at 9:52 pm
Thank you, other “James,” for demonstrating typical far-Left arrogance: “this district will get representation by someone who is actually versed in the issues.” Puh-lease!