A Grimm Situation

The developing story surrounding a criminal indictment against two-term Rep. Michael Grimm (R) will most probably put a marginal seat in the Democratic column.  Since Rep. Grimm's legal proceedings will almost assuredly continue through the election, New York City Councilman Domenic Recchia now becomes a slight favorite to convert the seat in November. Since the U.S. Attorney waited until the New York candidate filing deadline had passed to take formal action against Grimm, Republicans will be unable to replace him on the ballot.  The Congressman is also the Conservative and Independent parties' nominee.  Conservative Party Chairman Mike Long already issued a statement saying his organization will continue to support Grimm. Republicans on Capitol Hill did not waste any time in distancing themselves from Grimm.  The National Republican Congressional Committee removed the congressman from its "Patriot Program,” which raises money for vulnerable incumbents. For more information, please contact David Ashinoff at (202) 547-5013 or ashinoffd@agc.org.