A tight race is underway for the Congressional seat in the 24th District of New York. The NY Times profile for the 24th District calls it a toss up, showing a 54% chance of Richard Hanna (R) beating out incumbent Michael Arcuri (D). In January Times Magazine ranked it as one of the top ten Congressional races of the year. With a race this close it may be helpful to take a closer look at both candidates occupational histories.
According to Paul S. Herrnson:
“Occupation has a tremendous effect on the pool of House candidates and on their prospects of success.”
Michael Arcuri is both a lawyer and former District Attorney of Oneita County. In 2006, the year Arcuri was elected to the House, 33% of all nomination candidates and 40% of all general election candidates consisted of individuals with legal training. Not to mention the fact Arcuri has been an incumbent for the past four years in the 24th District greatly increases his odds of another win.
On the other hand self-made businessman Richard Hanna is no slouch. After graduating from college Hanna started up a construction company in 1976, which today has grown to employ more than 450 people. Hanna is also a partner in the Gabriela Group, LLC, which owns and operates Forge Hill Estates in Ilion, New York. Approximately 7% of House members have assets worth over $4.67 million, and if Hanna does win he will most certainly join that 7%. With his money, skills, and contacts Hanna makes a formidable opponent.
As of September 4th, according to auburnpub.com, Arcuri has raised $127,647 and has $601,729 in cash on hand. Hanna has received $81,604 in contributions and has $500,070 on hand. According to this it seems that Arcuri’s incumbency might trump Hanna’s entrepreneurship and wealth.
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