Paladino would have to be picked by the GOP in order to replace Collins on the ballot, no? I think that the party leaders will pick someone less controversial.
Still no replacement.
There are no vacant local posts in Collins’ town, you have to live in the town you are running in on election day, I don’t think Lazio lived in the Bronx so maybe judicial office is different. There are vacant posts in a neighboring town, I suppose Collins needs to rent a place there.
GOP seems preoccupied with the possibly of a dem legal challenge succeeding, prospective candidates who are in the State leg worry they could enter the Congressional race only to be unable to return to their state leg race if a challenge succeeds. No would ever dream of denying the democrats a chance to replace their nominee in a Black district (not that they would need to since the accused winning anyway would be a foregone conclusion).
For simplicity sake maybe a former/non/not up for reelection officeholder who is not Paladino might be the best choice for a replacement.