By Mark Scott
Buffalo, NY – Harold Ford Jr. continues a cross-state tour as he publicly flirts with a possible Democratic primary challenge of Senator Kirsten Gillibrand.
Ford made a Sunday visit to Buffalo followed by a visit to the State Capitol yesterday. He admits he knows little about upstate cities but plans "to learn a lot more" in the coming weeks.
Ford is casting himself an independent alternative.
"I think a more independent, stronger and steadier voice is something that could be more effective," Ford said.
Gillibrand's campaign released a statement saying the notion that Ford "is independent is completely contrived."
Ford has taken a 30 day leave from the Wall Street firm as he makes his decision on whether to run.