Change of Course for Congressman Chris Collins

Days after being indicted on charges of insider trading and a pledge to fight those charges and continue his run for re-election to Congress, an about-face on Saturday morning for Chris Collins.  The 27th District representative announced that he would serve out the remainder of his term, but would not seek re-election.

Collins said that after discussions with family and friends he said he decided that it was in the best interest of his constituents, the Republican Party and the Trump agenda to withdraw from the race.  No doubt the criticism directed at him and pressure from the Republican Party played a large role in the decision.

Who are possible replacement for him as the Republican candidate?  The list is long.

A short time after Collins withdrew, Erie County Comptroller Stefan Mychjliew announced that he is a candidate for the Congressional seat.

Saturday afternoon, Buffalo businessman Carl Paladino announced he's interested in throwing his hat in the ring.

Others also mentioned are State Senators Robert Ortt, Chris Jacobs, Patrick Gallivan and Michael Ranzenhofer.

Erie County Legislator Lynn Dixon.

Iraq war veteran David Bellavia.

Meanwhile the Democratic candidate for the office, Nate McMurray called for Collins to resign the office rather than to serve out the remainder of the term.