BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — New York State Senator Chris Jacobs announced Friday he is running for New York's 27th Congressional District seat currently held by fellow Republican Chris Collins.
In a Friday interview with 7 Eyewitness News Jacobs stated he doesn't believe Collins can fully serve as a congressman.
"I think is important to have someone who can fully serve as a congressman. Unfortunately, under the circumstances, Congressman Collins does not have that ability at this time," said NYS Senator Jacobs.
Collins was indicted in August 2018 on charges of insider trading and lying to the FBI, he said he is innocent and plans to clear his good name. The Congressman responded to the announcement in an interview Saturday with 7 Eyewitness News.
"One thing about Chris Jacobs, he does not represent the values of the 27th district, we have a very conservative Trump district, he's a never-Trumper," said Collins. "He's a pro-abortion pretend Republican, let's face it he used to be a Democrat I would suggest his values align with the 26th district, he should switch back to what he used to be which is a registered democrat, he should challenge Brian Higgins in a primary if he wants to go to Congress. The residents and constituents of NY-27 are not going to be tricked into thinking he's really a Republican."
The Collins campaign released this written statement Friday following the announcement:
"While I haven't made a final decision on running for re-election, the last thing we need in this seat is a never-Trump Republican who supports abortion rights and has supported savings plans and taxpayers funded legal aid for illegal immigrants. That would be the same as electing a Democrat. I ran for re-election to assure that President Trump had an ally in this seat. The President can count on me to assure he has an ally in 2020."
