Murphy the Centrist

For the most part, I view visits from representatives and senators with a certain pessimism.

In general, their handlers have them on such a tight schedule that press access is limited and question-and-answer periods are short and topic-driven.

Not that I blame them -- when you represent a district like New York's 23rd, you generally have a lot of ground to cover in a short period of time.

But that was not the case when New York's 20th Congressional District Representative Scott Murphy rolled into the Tri-Lakes region Tuesday.

Another Palin endorsement for Hoffman?

Speaking during an appearance on Fox Business Channel, Congressional candidate Doug Hoffman said he expects to be endorsed by former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin.

The Saranac Lake accountant has Conservative and Tea Party support ahead of the September 14 Republican primary. Hoffman received an endorsement from the former vice presidential candidate last fall before a special election for New York’s 23rd Congressional District seat.

Duprey, Sayward endorse Lazio

Rick Lazio announced today he's picked up endorsements from a pair of North Country Assembly members.

Janet Duprey and Teresa Sayward both pledged their support for the former Long Island Congressman in his bid for governor.

Who will run against Gillibrand?

Election season this fall is going to be busy. In New York, candidates are lining up for the gubernatorial race; challengers to Representatives Bill Owens and Scott Murphy are also licking their chops as both Congressmen are up for reelection this November.

But no one seems interested in challenging U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand.

Murphy to vote 'yes' on health care bill

President Obama picked up one more Congressional vote for his health care overhaul legislation -- Scott Murphy, who represents New York's 20th Congressional District.

Last year, Murphy voted against the bill along with several other House Democrats. Below is Murphy's official statement regarding his stance on the legislation:

“Last November, I voted against the House health care reform legislation because I did not believe it adequately addressed the fundamentally flawed system that has led to skyrocketing health care costs, bankrupt families, and excessive profits for insurance companies. In the months since that vote, I have worked closely with my constituents, my colleagues in Congress, and with President Obama to address many of these concerns and ultimately strengthen this legislation.”