With Owens Out, The Suddenly Emboldened Are Seeking to Derail Yesterday's Front Runner

   When it looked like a leaning blue seat with Bill Owens still in, GOP upstart Elise Stefanik prospered as the candidate who would run an enthusiastic race and maybe, just maybe if the stars aligned, beat the incumbent.
     But Rep.Owens is out and the race in NY21 is a toss up and we hear the DC brain trust who orchestrate these things wants someone older...with more electoral experience...Someone who is a lawyer....better yet a tough-as-nails prosecutor...Like Warren County DA Kate Hogan. She's the new buzz candidate on the eastern front, meanwhile out west Matt Doheny is talking about getting in to see if the third time is a charm.

Warren County DA Kate Hogan

 

     It's about gravitas and money. Ms. Stefanik's appeal is also her weakness...Young and enthusiastic, but lacking in the gravitas of an older, more distinguished type like Mr. Owens.
     It doesn't surprise me to see the vultures circling the prey, and Ms. Stefanik best keep both eyes open as the old bulls will flock to who who the DC mandarins say can have the money and their wisdom and influence.

Matt Doheny at his 2012 Wedding in Alex Bay

 

     The window is narrow as petitions start in March, and county committees are already screening people. The minor, me-too parties also matter and Ms. Stefanik has courted them....But in the end, if word comes from on high that the money people want someone else, those who want to win will be hard pressed to stand behind Ms. Stefanik.
Field of potential candidates widens in wake of Owens’ announcement