Ryan Challenges Mascia's Petitions in 149^th Assembly race

July 31, 2012 – Buffalo, N.Y. Assembly-member Sean Ryan [D-144^th] has filed a challenge in Erie County Supreme Court against the Erie County Board of Elections and his opponent in the Democratic Primary for the 149^th Assembly seat, Joseph Mascia. Ryan challenges the validity of over 85% of the signatures on Mascia’s petitions and also alleges Mascia’s candidacy is barred by the federal Hatch Act. Mascia maintains the suit is without merit and vows to continue his campaign until victory in the September 13 primary.

Joseph Mascia states: “I collected the majority of those signatures myself, in one on one meetings with the voters of the district. There is absolutely no merit to the Hatch Act claims, to the best of my knowledge they haven’t even contacted the federal agency to determine if there’s a violation. It’s a frivolous claim, it’s intended as an intimidation tactic and harassment; it’s a feeble attempt to prevent discussion of the legitimate issues in this campaign.”

Ryan’s suit was filed July 26. He alleges that Mascia’s re-election to a 4^th term as Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority Commissioner is in conflict with his candidacy in the newly reconfigured 149^th Assembly district. Mascia feels that; “This is a new district and the people are entitled to a new approach. The stale politics of elected lawyers catering to entrenched special interests and powerful lobbies has got to go. I represent the people, the little guy and that’s why they’ll stop at nothing to try to defeat me. But, guess what? I’m a fighter, I’m going to win this challenge at the Board of Elections, I’m going to win this lawsuit, and I’m going to win the September primary. Each win will be a victory for the people!”