Gary Ackerman – Delaying Retirement for Political Gain

 The question is not if but when Gary Ackerman is going to retire. Rumors have been swirling around fueled by two key telltales.

Exhibit A) The possibility that his district and that of Carolyn McCarthy would be drawn together – potentially forcing a Member vs. Member primary matchup.
Exhibit B) His lackluster fundraising – $55k and a 275% burn rate in the 4th quarter of last year.

This past weekend the chatter got so intense, Ackerman tweeted on Saturday that he was still planning to run. Straight forward denial, rumors must be wrong… right? Or is it possible all that persistent chatter is true and NY Democrats are trying to delay the announcement for political gain? This Capital New York story seems to elude to that possibility.

Is this another NY Democrat doing the old “I’m running until I’m not running” routine?? Sounds AWFULLY familiar.

December 31st: Hinchey spokesman denies rampant retirement rumors: “It’s baseless inside Washington speculation…Congressman Hinchey has repeatedly stated that he has no intention of retiring and he will seek reelection.” (Hinchey denies considering retirement, Daily Freeman, 12/31/11)

January 18th: Hinchey Announces Retirement (Democratic Rep. Maurice Hinchey to retire, Washington Post, 1/18/12)

As the Ackerman retirement watch continues, consider the following NRCC quote:

NRCC Comment: “Are New York Democrats trying to delay Gary Ackerman’s retirement for political gain? Despite his defensive response, all the signs are there that Ackerman is prepared to throw in the towel.” –NRCC Spokesman Nat Sillin