Newly-elected Assemblyman eager to begin

Exhilarated, honored and ready to begin is what Republican Assemblyman-elect Stephen Hawley said after the election.

Hawley and Democratic and former Orleans County Legislator Gary Kent were vying for the seat in the 138th District vacated by Charles Nesbitt.

Hawley won the special election by garnering 5,796 votes. Kent received 3,237. In November, Hawley will be on the ballot again to retain the seat for a two year term.

"I plan to keep the office that Charlie had in Albion and try to get office space in Monroe and Genesee counties as well," he said. "I've already had people stopping in and calling with concerns."

A local swearing in ceremony will be scheduled and Hawley will be sworn in on March 6 in Albany. "Once I'm sworn in Monday I'll get right to work because the legislature is in session."

Kent said he plans to be back on the ballot in November.

The Assembly seat has a salary of $79,500.

March 5, 2006