Musings for 2006 Elections

I've been reading many opinions on Republican candidates for next year's Statewide elections and I think I've come to some conclusions. Don't hold me to any of these, but for right now, this is where I am:


Governor. John Faso. He ran a strong and almost successful campaign in 2002 for Attorney General. Mr. Faso could certainly receive the endorsement of both the Republican Party and the Conservative Party (which would prove very important for a Gubernatorial race). A platform of fiscal discipline, non-partisan redistricting, Medicaid reform and pro-business initiatives could make him a winner over Elliot Spitzer. Other names floated are Sec. Randy Daniels and As. Patrick Manning.


Attorney General. Jeanine Pirro. She has been very successful in Westchester and has been making a name for herself. Yes, there are certainly issues that will come up to knock her down, but after seeing her in an interview, she appears to be strong, determined and very capable of challenging anyone the Democrats run. Other names floated are Rick Lazio and Sen. Michael Balboni.


US Senator. Randy Daniels. I continue to believe the best challenger against Sen. Clinton would be Mr. Daniels. His recent speech (a portion you can find on my April 28 entry) sounds like a man ready to run for Governor. Mr. Daniels, if you ever find my blog, please consider being a New York representitive in Washington. The party hasn't picked a favorite, yet many names are surfacing as challengers such as Adam Brecht, William Brenner and Ed Cox.


State Comptroller. Peter King. He served as Nassau County Comptroller for twelve successful years and fourteen years as a US Congressional Representitive serving on the FInancial Services Committee and the International Relations Committee. I am not exactly sure what Mr. King's ambitions are, but if he is to take the next step as a public servant, a statewide office such as comptroller would be an appropriate move.
***UPDATE*** AP reported that State Chairman Minarik sat down for lunch with Rick Lazio last month. The report indicates that there was talk of Mr. Lazio returning to the statewide scene and all talk points to an Attorney General run. However, there were hints in the report that the NY GOP is asking Mr. Lazio to concider the State Comptroller race. I think Rick Lazio should dive into the Comptroller race. Mr. King, keep doing your job in Nassau.