Kuhl to run for reelection

Kuhl to run for reelection

By Aaron Blake

Rep. Randy Kuhl (R-N.Y.) announced Friday that he will seek reelection this year, casting aside questions about whether he would join the nearly 30 GOP members who are leaving the House this cycle.

The decision is good news for Republicans, who are already struggling to retain the seat and two others in western New York.

{mosads}Kuhl, 64, faces a rematch of his 2006 race with Democrat Eric Massa, whom he defeated 51-49.

The lawmaker is serving only his second term, but he had not previously said whether he would seek reelection.

“When my constituents voted for me in 2004 and again in 2006, they chose to vote for a lifelong resident of the 29th District, who has the experience and convictions to represent their best interest,” Kuhl said. “They know that I care about securing their jobs, protecting their families, and ensuring that they have a government that doesn't control their lives. They know that I represent them, not a political party or any interest group.”

Rep. James Walsh (R-N.Y.) is retiring this year in the neighboring 25th district, and Rep. Tom Reynolds (R-N.Y.) is seen as vulnerable in the 26th.