Capital Region Scene

Nichols to run for Reilly's seat

Democratic Albany County Legislator and Assembly staffer Tim Nichols announced today his plan to run to succeed his boss, Bob Reilly, in the Assembly district that will include Niskayuna, Colonie and part of Schenectady.

“I’m excited about the challenges that are ahead and I’m ready to take them on,” he said in his announcement in front of his Latham home.

Pointing to his record in the county legislature, Nichols highlighted his effort to end predatory towing in the county and the modernization of item pricing in county grocery stores. If elected, his focus will be on economic development with an eye toward help small businesses, ensuring public education and public employees have a strong voice in Albany and reforming the financing of elections.

The race to succeed Reilly, who announced his retirement last month, has attracted Democrats Phil Steck, an Albany County legislator, and Kevin Frazier, an Assembly staffer. Additionally Democrat Joe Landry, supervisor for Niskayuna, is considering a run.

A primary date has not been set, but it will likely be in August. In assessing his chances, Nichols said he doesn’t consider himself an underdog and thinks voters will take him seriously.

Additionally, Republican Jennifer Whalen, who narrowly lost to Reilly in 2010, is the likely Republican candidate.

A story will appear in The Daily Gazette tomorrow.

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Video of today's announcement:

today's events