Democratic field for 27th narrows to 1 after Stankevich suspends campaign
Photo by Tom Rivers: Nick Stankevich speaks during a March 6 candidate forum in Albion at the QWL building.
Nick Stankevich, one of the final two Democrats seeking to challenge Chris Collins in the 27th Congressional District, announced the suspension of his campaign.
That clears the way for Nate McMurray, the Grand Island town supervisor, to secure the Democratic Party line. McMurray has already secured many endorsements from Democratic Party committees in the district, as well as Turn 27 Blue.
Stankevich wanted to be a voice for rural residents. He works as vice president of marketing and operations at Genesee Country Inn Bed and Breakfast in Avon. He also works as an advisor for businesses. He said he is concerned about the steep population losses in many of the rural communities in Western New York.
He issued this statement:
“Eight months ago, I announced my candidacy to represent our community in Congress. Standing for issues that put people first has always been the heart and soul of my campaign; healthcare for a healthier society, good education for our children’s future, job creation by investing in rural infrastructure and a renewable economy,” said Stankevich.
“Growing up in Western New York, learning from this great country, and seeing our communities for what they could be, there is a need to push for a new direction with fresh ideas. I ran for Congress out of an obligation to give back to a community that gave me so much. I have been the beneficiary of some of the hardest working people in Western New York and thank them for the time and effort they put into this campaign. My family, friends and everyone who supported me have shown me, once again, that we live in a unique place. Having traveled throughout our rural towns to meet with farmers, veterans and small business owners, I am reminded that we live in a place where it does not matter where you have been, what you look like, or how much money you make. It only matters that the contents of your character are pure and that you long for a future where our children are better off than we are.
“After careful consideration and with a heavy heart, I am suspending my campaign for Congress. I’m proud of the campaign I ran and proud of my team. I will take the lessons learned and the warmth from our neighbors who yearn for a better tomorrow, to continue fighting to make our community better. As always, I encourage every decision you make to have people at the heart of it, along with humility, compassion and kindness. The people of Western New York deserve that in their representative.
“I want to remind everyone, Republican or Democrat, of the strength that you hold in your hands. Your vote won’t just affect change for two years, but it will be a symbol of hope for generations to come. The promise of America is not only that your vote will count, but also that it will mean something. It assures you that we are a part of something bigger than right now. Our decision at the ballot box will be judged in the history books, and our children and grandchildren count on us to give them a better future than we could ever imagine. May God bless the United States of America.”
