Bath, N.Y. -- Former Congressman Randy Kuhl (R-Hammondsport) announced Wednesday that he is not running for his old seat in Congress.
Kuhl was elected to represet the 29th District in Congress in 2004 but lost his bid for a third term to Eric Massa in 2008. Massa resigned the seat on Monday.
Former Corning Mayor Tom Reed is the only Republican who has officially announced that he is running for the seat in 2010. Monroe County Executive Maggie Brooks (R) remains undecided.
No Democrats have officially entered the race. Both Monroe County District Attorney Mike Green and Hornell Mayor Shawn Hogan declined the chance to run for the seat.
New York Governor David Paterson has said that he will call for a special election in the coming days.
Congressman Randy Kuhl’s Statement on his Political Future:
“Over the last week, I have heard from hundreds of my former constituents urging me to run for my old congressional seat. Their emotional plea to me was humbling and most appreciative. But after careful consideration, I have decided to forego a run for Congress. I want to sincerely thank everyone who has supported me during my 28 years of public service. I look forward to helping the 29th District in any way that I can and I urge my neighbors and friends to support Tom Reed for this congressional seat.”
