Meet Tom Reed (R CAND, NY-29).

Tom’s been planning to run in the general election [for this seat] – which as you might recall, was 1st-term Eric Massa’s, until he fled it on what could only be called ‘lurid’ circumstances – since last year. He’d be happy to run in a special election, too – assuming that Governor Paterson plans to follow the Constitution and actually schedule one.

Tom’s site is here. This race was always a strong pick-up opportunity; but this latest shenanigan from Paterson should seriously concern everybody.

Moe Lane

Why is Gov. Paterson (D, NY) flirting with impeachment?

Article I, Section 2, US Constitution:

When vacancies happen in the Representation from any State, the Executive Authority thereof shall issue Writs of Election to fill such Vacancies.

WHAM.com:

Henrietta, NY — Multiple Democratic sources now confirm that party chairs decided Monday night that Matthew Zeller is their candidate should a special election to replace Rep. Eric Massa take place.

As Jim Geraghty notes, there should be no ‘should’ here; the US Constitution is not ambiguous about the subject.  There is a vacancy in NY-2329 [OOPS!]: its citizenry have the Constitutional right to representation with all due speed; complaints may be directed to the former office holder. Subject closed.

I assumed that this report was simply an April Fool’s joke, but surely the governor is not seriously considering ignoring his mandated duty under the law?

Even if he is a Democrat?

Moe Lane

PS: Tom Reed is the GOP candidate for this district.

Crossposted to RedState.