Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - "Whoever did this, knew months ago, and waited to drop the charges." Republican strategist Carl Calabrese said the latest allegation to rock Tuesday's special election in New York's 27th Congressional district, is a regular campaign tactic.
The Erie County District Attorney's office is reviewing a complaint of voter fraud against State Senator Chris Jacobs. Jacobs is accused of registering to vote and running for office, using his Orchard Park address, while still living at his primary home in Buffalo in 2019.
"The DA is looking into it," said Calabrese. "But he's not working over the weekend and there won't be any decisions on Monday. But that's the purpose. That's why it's done," he said.
Jacobs is running against Democrat Nate McMurray in the special election. He is also involved in a three way Republican primary against Darien attorney Beth Parlato, and Erie County Comptroller Stefan Mychajliw. The primary winner will be on the fall ballot in the district that was formerly occupied by ex-Congressman Chris Collins.
In the past, a late campaign tactic such as an allegation of voter fraud, could have maximum impact on the polls, but Calabrese says not this year. "This is an election year unlike any other. Many voters have opted for mail-in ballots due to the pandemic."
The Erie County Board of Elections says a record number of voters, over 100,000, have requested mail-in ballots this year.
Calabrese says that's significant, adding he thinks the campaign tactic against Jacobs, is going to be a moot point.