Buffalo, NY – State Assemblymember Sam Hoyt joins those who have announced interest in seeking the seat in the newly mapped 28th Congressional District.
Hoyt released a statement Wednesday, only a few hours after long time Democratic Congressperson John J. LaFalce announced his retirement.
"John [LaFalce] called me this afternoon to let me know what he was doing," Hoyt said in his statement.
"We were both a bit wistful, but I know he is leaving on his own terms, with grace and distinction. His was a long, storied career and he served this community with honor."
Hoyt, a Democrat who currently represents the 144th Assembly District including Grand Island and a large portion of the City of Buffalo, has long been considered a top candidate for either Congress or Mayor of Buffalo.
The newly created, so called "earmuff" congressional district stretches from Buffalo to Rochester along Lake Ontario, with the larger portions in Erie and Niagara Counties.
Hoyt acknowledged it would be a difficult district to represent, however, said that he has the energy and enthusiasm he believes would be necessary.
Democratic State Senator Byron Brown has also announced his intentions to seek the congressional seat.
Hoyt, Brown and any other Democratic challengers would have to battle incumbent Representative Louis Slaughter, whose district in Rochester is folded into the newly formed district.