SCHENECTADY, N.Y. -- Schenectady Mayor Brian Stratton has hinted he might run for the 21st Congressional District seat that will open because current Representative Mike McNulty decided not to run for re-election. Now Stratton says he's out.
"A very emotional decision for me," he said. "My father served in the seat for 30 years before Congressman McNulty."
The Democrat denies he was pushed out by some in the party, saying the decision was entirely his.
"Schenectady has never been stronger," he said. "There's so many great things going on and so many wonderful things that are about to happen that I want to be a part of that."
The race for the 21st District Congressional seat has taken a few twists and turns, as the mayor of Schenectady announces he won't run, and another candidate picks up the endorsement of the current congressman's sister. Our Steve Ference reports.
Candidate Tracey Brooks said, "Mayor Stratton is a very dear friend, and I enjoy very much working with him before. I'm surprised by his decision. I'm happy for him that he's had the time to make the decision that's been right for him and his family."
For former aide to Hillary Clinton, Tracey Brooks, it's one less opponent. Already, Albany County legislator Phil Steck is in, and others may soon announce -- one reason why Brooks was pleased to pick up her first endorsement from Congressman McNulty's sister, Green Island Mayor Ellen McNulty Ryan.
McNulty Ryan said, "There will be other candidates who are bright and qualified, but I believe Tracey Brooks is by far leading the pack."
Bottom line, Stratton said he's not going to run because his priority remains Schenectady. He also said he will not endorse anyone -- at least not yet -- because he still believes there are a few more people who will jump into the race.
"Had I decided to go forward with the campaign, I think I could have done extremely well and could have won," said Mayor Stratton.
Congressman McNulty isn't endorsing anyone either -- calling all the campaigning candidates "outstanding people," adding that he "doesn't want to choose among friends."