BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown has released a statement after reports that Congressman Brian Higgins (D, NY-26) is expected to announce his resignation from the U.S. House of Representatives.
According to 7 News Political Analyst Bob McCarthy's sources, Higgins has signed a contract to become the next president of Shea’s Performing Arts Center and he is expected to announce his resignation from the U.S. House of Representatives in the coming weeks.
He has served as Buffalo’s representative in Congress since 2005. His resignation from his seat in Washington could trigger a domino effect in the Western New York political scene.
READ MORE: 'Done deal': Sources say Higgins to become next president of Shea's
On Friday, Brown, who could be considered a potential successor and has also been mentioned as a potential new president for Buffalo State University, released the following statement:
"Congressman Brian Higgins has delivered exceptional results for Buffalo & Western New York during his time in Washington. He has helped shape the renaissance in our area, including his great leadership on Waterfront Development. It's been an honor to stand with him and work with him on so many key projects for the benefit of the residents of the City of Buffalo and our region. I wish Congressman Higgins nothing but the best in his future endeavors. When the appropriate time comes, I look forward to a conversation about the future of this very diverse district so it can meet the needs of all of our residents."
According to McCarthy, depending on the timing of his resignation, the Democratic leaders of the 26th Congressional District could designate a candidate for a special election — possibly in conjunction with an April Democratic Presidential primary.
The list of top Democrats considered potential successors includes Brown, State Senator Tim Kennedy, State Senator Sean Ryan, and Mark Poloncarz, who just Tuesday won re-election as Erie County Executive.
7 News reached out to Senator Ryan about the possibility and sent this statement:
"As no official announcement has been made by Congressman Higgins, I don't know what the future holds, but I remain focused on my job representing the people of Western New York in the New York State Senate."
