By Joyce Kryszak
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wbfo/local-wbfo-691620.mp3
Buffalo, NY – There is a growing "who's who list" in the bid to succeed Thomas Reynolds for the 26th congressional seat. But the list also includes some names many people have never heard of.
Early on, the race to find a GOP candidate saw some of the recognizable names that you would have expected, such as as State Senator George Maziarz and State Assemblyman James Hayes. When they dropped out, the party went looking for a less expected but still recognizable face. Anchorman Don Postles' name was tossed around for awhile.
But the county's top Republican thinks it is time to go the other way.
County Executive Chris Collins has recruited fellow businessman Rick Lewis for a possible run. He is the president of the Talking Phone Book. But most voters probably have never heard of him. Collins said that can be changed, citing himself as a perfect example.
"It's amazing what a little advertising on the television can do for your name ID," said Collins.
And all that requires is a little money. Well, actually lots of money. The 2006 race for the 26th district soared to more than seven million dollars. But Collins said Lewis is prepared to spend at least a million of his own money if he decides to run. He said that, along with a proven track record as a highly successful businessman, could make people sit up and take notice.
Collins said Lewis is expected to decide about a possible run within the next week.
A pending Supreme Court decision could make his money and that of other wealthy candidates a bit harder for a less wealthy opponent to match.
The court will decide later this month whether or not to wipe out a provision that allows a triple fundraising match against an opponent who self-funds his campaign. The challenge to the so-called "millionaires amendment" is being brought by businessman and two-time Democratic congressional candidate, millionaire Jack Davis. He too is condidering another bid to fill the open congressional seat.
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