Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - The Erie County Democratic Committee will select a candidate to endorse in the NY-26 special election on Thursday evening. Three candidates will be interviewed to be selected as the candidate to replace Brian Higgins.
Chairman Jeremy Zellner tells WBEN whoever the executive committee endorses, he will nominate, as he meets with his Niagara County counterpart to select the candidate for the special election.
Democrats will hear from Nate McMurray, New York State Sen. Tim Kennedy and Erie County Legislator Jeanne Vinal.
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Zellner says he wants a candidate who can step in and make an impact immediately. "We're losing a lot of clout with Congressman Higgins leaving after 20 years. He had a lot of seniority in Congress, he was able to deliver a lot of resources to our community," says Zellner. "I want someone who can make sure that we continue to receive the the amount of federal resources that we've been getting, and that I can make a difference for our community and keep keep the the momentum going with Buffalo and Western New York."
Zellner says he has another domino concern if Kennedy is chosen. "We're going to lose that clout in the State Senate. We can't afford to lose that much seniority and governmental experience with those two seats," adds Zellner. He says finding a replacement for Kennedy can't be taken lightly either. "This is not a time to find activists who are keyboard warriors. We're looking for someone who's serious and who understands how government works, and will stand up for our values, but also realize that government has to function," he explains.
Higgins will leave Congress on Feb. 4 to take over leadership at Shea's Buffalo Theatre.