POLITICS: John's seat is attracting interest

By Jeremy Moule on January 25, 2010

Susan John's Assembly district is, again, serving as an example of the lunacy that is redistricting in New York.

Now that John's said she won't seek re-election, a number of possible candidates are getting mention and they seem to come from all parts of the city.

The only two confirmed candidates are Democrats Willa Powell - who serves on the city School Board - and Harry Bronson - a county legislator who serves as his caucus's leader. Both live in the city's southeast. Another potential candidate lives in the northwest.

It's not just that the 131st is a sprawling district; it covers the towns of Riga, Rush, Chili, and Wheatland, but also includes a wisp through the city. It's that city section that makes little sense, except perhaps to those who count votes and want to ensure their party's control over a certain area.

The race for John's seat will be an interesting one, and a Republican candidate hasn't yet to come forward. Chili Supervisor David Dunning, whose name is floating around out there, told City's Chris Fien this morning that he isn't interested in the seat.