My thanks to Robinia for posting about this earlier today, which is perhaps the biggest news today. The Capitol reports that Tom Golisano is starting up his own 527 group to fund state senate candidates. Here is an excerpt of the story from the Democrat and Chronicle:
Rochester-area billionaire Tom Golisano plans to make a "major announcement'' about his involvement in this year's elections next week, an aide said today, and a published report said it's going to be good news for Democrats trying to win control of the state Senate.
Golisano, who has run unsuccessfully for governor three times and owns the Buffalo Sabres, may spend $1 million on each of several Democrats seeking to capture seats now held by Republicans, according to The Capitol, a magazine that covers state government.
Golisano aide Stephen Pigeon said today the announcement will be next Tuesday in Albany involving ''New York State government and politics.'' He wouldn't comment further and Golisano didn't immediately return a call seeking comment.
Democrat Richard Dollinger of Brighton, who is challenging Republican Joe Robach of Greece, as well as challengers for two Erie County seats now held by Republicans, could be beneficiaries of Golisano's largesse, according to the magazine, which cited an unnamed source.
First, some background on "Golisano aide Stephen Pigeon." Pigeon is said to be behind-the-scenes of the Joe Mesi campaign. So there is no surprise that once this 527 group comes to fruition, Mesi will be a beneficiary. That's big money for Mesi.
I have nothing against Golisano, especially as a Buffalo Sabres fan. I also like a lot of the business decisions he has made and his work with charities and his own foundation have been great for Western New York.
One of the more interesting things from The Capitol piece was this about Harry Konst, Kathy Konst's husband and campaign manager.
Harry Konst, who is managing his wife's campaign, claimed he has not discussed the Senate bid with her and said he did not know who Golisano is.
Wow. He's from the Buffalo area and doesn't know who Golisano is? Really?
Anyway, more candidates could be targets according to The Capitol. Dan Squadron could be a target. Other candidates - Democrats and Republicans alike - could be beneficiaries as well. Assembly candidates could be targeted too.
I must add this: As great as this may sound, it shows why the system is flawed. In reality, one man could buy three or four senate races (possibly more) for candidates in November. That is a scary thought. It's a great news story, but if we are going to push forward a clean money, clean elections platform in this state, we can't have candidates accepting up to $1 million from one of the richest men in New York. |
