By Eileen Buckley
Buffalo, NY – With all the election night excitement centered around the Erie County Executive race, another new Republican candidate emerged a big winner Tuesday night. He has familiar name and is following in the political footsteps of his mother.
Edward Rath, III, will be replacing long-time Republican county lawmaker Barry Weinstein. On Tuesday, Rath overwhelming defeated his democratic opponent, Cherly Whitehead in the race for the 15th District.
Rath is not only the grandson of the first county executive, but he is the son of state Senator Mary Lou Rath. She too once held a seat in the County Legislature. Rath says his Mom was by his side every step of the way.
Senator Rath says her son's win was a much higher percentage than any of her past political victories. Rath says she is very proud of Edward.
Senator Rath admits that name recognition probably made a different. The younger Rath says he certainly feels the pressure of living up to his mother's long-time political reputation, but is ready for the challenge.
The newly elected Rath says he is ready to serve his Amherst constituents and work toward reforming county government.
Click the "listen" icon above to hear Eileen Buckley's story now or use your podcasting software to download it to your computer or iPod.