The swollen field of potential Republican candidates for the seat of retiring Rep. Thomas M. Reynolds decreased by one today when White House aide Nick Sinatra said he will not run.
Sinatra, 27, told Erie County Republican Chairman James P. Domagalski he expects to pursue a master's in business administration next year after President Bush leaves the White House.
"He had received strong encouragement, but at this time not seeking public office is the right decision for him personally," Domagalski said.
Sinatra, a graduate of St. Joseph's Collegiate Institute and Yale University, has served as Northeast political director for the Bush White House.
Republican leaders from throughout the 26th Congressional District are expected to discuss the race when they meet Wednesday in Batavia.
Sinatra was a name being tossed around, but this was expected. He had his eyes set on other objectives right now and this is more of a personal decision for him. But I think that if the environment was right, you would have seen Sinatra in this race. The GOP in Erie County really see him as their next big thing. He'll be around for some time, especially with his experiences in the Bush White House.
