Thank You

I'd like to thank all the candidates that ran spirited campaigns for this year's election cycle. There were many good candidates that did not grasp the brass ring, but that doesn't mean we should hang our heads in defeat. The remaining two months of 2005 should be spent analyzing the poll data and the reasons for not picking up any seats for City Hall.

Some positives.

Russell Gallo got home from fighting in Iraq, was elected District Leader, set up a campaign committee and put together a Republican Club for the 47 AD. All this year. Russell pulled in a strong 30.5% in a first time campaign. Congratulations.

Pat Russo, the candidate with the best shot of winning, grabbed 45% of the vote. He had 46% in 2003 and was hoping the Mayor's coattails would push him over the threshold. Apparently, there weren't any. Four years from now, Mr. Gentile will be voted out by term limits. Maybe Mr. Russo will give it a go again. Third times a charm?

Peter Boudouvas took another stab at district 19 and pulled in almost 38% of the vote. District 19 is a winnable district for Republicans so there is definitely hope in 2009 when Mr. Avella cannot seek re-election.

Raquel Walker wanted to run as a Republican, but when she first registered to vote, she decided not to select a party, but did. That's the "Independence" Party con. A friend of mine did the same thing. Ballots are now clearly marked, I choose no party at this time. Ms. Walker ran only as a Conservative and had an uphill battle. But she pulled in a respectable 14% on a third party line. Thank you for the effort and we hope to see you on the Republican line four years from now.

New Yorkers wisely shot down the State Constitutional Amendment. When New Yorkers see Democrats and Republicans agree whole-heartedly on bad policy, then you should vote No. You should vote NO for anything you don't understand. Ballot initiatives always turn up again. If you understand it, then you an decide YES or NO. But if you don't understand it, NEVER vote YES. It is safer to knock something down.

Next year is State elected offices, Congressional seats and one US Senator. Another exciting year in the world of New York politics.