A number of political players will be in Buffalo today, as New York State republicans meet at HARBORCENTER for the state GOP Convention.
Initially, talk of nominating someone to run against Incumbent U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer was expected to dominate conversation, but insiders tell 7 Eyewitness News the main discussion will likely now center around Donald Trump, and the New York State primary in April.
The convention comes at a critical time in the race for the Oval Office, as Donald Trump works to solidify his place as the Republican front runner. Thursday night, 2012 Presidential candidate Mitt Romney spoke out against Trump, calling him a phony. Trump, however, has strong support in Western New York, including Erie County Republican Chair Nick Langworthy, who officially endorsed him yesterday. Langworthy commented on Romney's remarks saying, "What this smacks to me of is a desperate attempt by a failed candidate to have at outsized role in this nomination process."
While primary talk is expected to take up much time at the convention, Republicans will also look for a nominee to run against Schumer. Manhattan Attorney Wendy Long's name has been mentioned by a number of people. Long ran against Kirsten Gillibrand in 2012, and formally announced her candidacy Thursday.
