Lazio: ‘I’d Like to Welcome Ed Cox Back to the Republican Party’

Azi Paybarah — Mon, 22 Mar 2010 16:16:19 -0400

Chris Smith argues that by backing Democrat-turned-Republican Steve Levy, the GOP State Chairman Ed Cox may save the Republican Party. That's because, unlike Republican candidate Rick Lazio, Levy may help them pick up congressional and state senate seats.

Smith writes: "Even if Levy is able to win the Republican nomination, he’d remain a long shot to beat Andrew Cuomo. But Cox’s move could still turn out to be a crafty play: Levy would be a powerful draw in key districts where Republicans have a good chance of picking up seats in Congress and the State Legislature. Two prime targets represent Suffolk: Congressman Tim Bishop and State Senator Brian Foley."

The view from Rick Lazio's camp is slightly different.

"I'd like to welcome Ed Cox back to the Republican Party," Lazio said on Saturday.

Observer » Lazio: ‘I’d Like to Welcome Ed Cox Back to the Republican Party’

Lazio: ‘I’d Like to Welcome Ed Cox Back to the Republican Party’