David Nachbar, Pittsford: I handicapped him as a “Wild Card” behind Green and Koon.
He’s a former Bausch & Lomb executive who is now operating a private business.
He also lost a State Senate bid to unseat Jim Alesi in 2008 and was considering a primary against Massa the year prior.
He could be a tough sell to Southern Tier voters but no Democrat stands a chance without Monroe County so a candidate from the northern part of the district makes sense.
Mary Wilmot, Pittsford: Here’s a new one for you. I’ve confirmed she’s been approached by Democratic Party leaders. Wilmot is currently Governor Paterson’s Regional Director for this territory, has experience in the non-profit and business management fields, a masters degree in education, and some time off to be a mom is also on her resume. In handicapping this one must remember that Wilmot, being of the Wilmot family that owns many local malls, has access to deep pockets and that could be desirable for the DCCC. (Same could be said for Nachbar) Wilmot also currently works for the only man in charge of scheduling this special election.
Surely one strategy the DCCC is considering involves making the NRCC sink some money into this race to weaken their footing a bit in other Specials or going into November. Accomplishing that without having to make an overwhelming investment of their own becomes an added plus. That line of thinking favors Wilmot and Nachbar, but it also favors a “let’s take our time” approach to candidate selection.
Unless the Dems find something “under a stone” I suspect you’ll see the following two names at the end of any short list and then it comes down to who wants it and who owns the intangibles to endure an intensely scrutinized political campaign. (9 months smashed into 40 days)
