More Confusion in NY-29

The state of the race in New York’s 29th congressional district is cloudier today than it was two weeks ago. Though the Democrats have settled on a candidate, Matthew Zeller, a young former CIA employee, it may be a moot point. The candidate selection process undertaken by the Democrats only serves in the case of a special election. Governor Paterson has not called for a special election and continues to appear unlikely to do so. Without a special election, the contest will go on as planned, with a September primary and the general election in November. If a special election is called, Zeller will be the Democrat candidate, however if there is no special election, there will be a primary that is open to other candidates. Support from the party establishment may help Mr. Zeller in a primary, but does not guarantee victory, if other, potentially stronger candidates, join the race.

The single Republican candidate in the race, Tom Reed, has been calling for a special election since the seat became vacant. As he should. A special election would certainly favor him over Zeller, who is currently an unknown in the district. A November general election would give Zeller more time to introduce himself to voters and have the added benefit of being able to run on the same ticket as Andrew Cuomo, who Democrats hope will carry them to victory this fall up and down the ballot.

Another important thing to remember, which sometimes even slips my mind, is that even if a special election occurs, there will still be a September primary and November general election, as the special election would only fill the remainder of the current term, not the next full two-year term.