I grew up in upstate NY. Ben Gilman was my congressman. If Spencer received more exposure in the press, he would be a more formidable candidate. I hope he can debate Hillary. Spencer is no Rick Lazio.
Spencer can win with Upstate and Long Island. Not all Democrats shill for Hillary. She is extremely polarizing and if vocal conservatives spread the message one way or the other (blogs, radio, t.v. commercials), John Spencer has a shot. Rick Lazio got a late start, the media killed him after his debate against Hillary, and he wasn't as conservative as I would have liked. Like you said, Spencer is much different, and Spencer will blow her away at a debate. I'm looking forward to it.