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Starting to get some press coverage.
http://www.RusThompson.com

http://www.tonawanda-news.com/story.asp?id=2852

Three vie for Swanick’s seat
Eric OConnor
Sunday, June 05, 2005

The major parties have announced their candidates for the Erie County Legislature seat in the 10th District, and for the first time in 26 years, Chuck Swanick isn’t an option for voters.

Kenmore Village Trustee Michelle Iannello has claimed the nominations from the Democratic, Independent, Conservative and Working Families parties. Bill Naab is the Republican choice, which sets up a primary election between he and Grand Island contractor Rus Thompson.

The 10th District includes the City of Tonawanda, Grand Island and western chunks of Kenmore and the Town of Tonawanda.

Iannello was out campaigning Saturday in Niawanda Park. She said people kept asking her why she’s gunning for a seat on a Legislature that is largely responsible for the county’s multi-million dollar deficit.

“A lot of people are asking me why I want the job. I’m as frustrated as anyone, that’s why,” she said.

“I’m not the same old. I have a lot of ideas. I’m here to represent the people. They want change. The way they look at it, anybody can do a better job than the people in there.”

But Thompson said the major party’s choices are exactly that — the same old.

“Every candidate that is endorsed by the parties is the status quo,” he said. “The parties are scrambling to hold onto power. They’re looking out for the party, not the public.”