[alloysteel]

Stopping out for an election cycle is not such a bad idea. You have a chance to see and talk with potential constituents on a much more personal level, and they are reacquainted with your agenda, all the while you do not have to deal with complaints and favors asked of those who do occupy the office. While Rick Lazio may not look to be the very picture of a conservative in Montana or Texas, he is remarkably far removed from the fever-swamp type of liberal that seems to prevade much of New York State politics.

[nutmeg]

While Rick Lazio may not look to be the very picture of a conservative in Montana or Texas, he is remarkably far removed from the fever-swamp type of liberal that seems to prevade much of New York State politics.

Exactly. When I last checked Lazio's ACU (American Conservative Union) rating in Congress back in Fall 2000, he was rated at about 69%. While not at the preferable 100%, 69% is really not bad for the liberal Blue Zone of the Northeast. The three "Republican" Congress critters in my state of CT are currently each rated in the mid-40s by the ACU. (Chris Shays: 44%, Nancy Johnson: 45%, Rob Simmons: 44%)

[1Old Pro]

While Rick Lazio may not look to be the very picture of a conservative in Montana or Texas, he is remarkably far removed from the fever-swamp type of liberal that seems to prevade much of New York State politics.

Yep, I'm rooting for Rick.