Party Leader Runs Again

Assemblymember Jonathan Bing has represented the 73rd District since he was first elected in 2002. The former lawyer, who will appear on the Democratic and Working Families Party lines, is a prolific author of legislation, authoring 36 pieces of legislation since he was elected to the Assembly.

The seat had been held by a Republican, John Ravitz, for 12 years before Bing was elected, and this affluent East Side area, known as the "silk stocking district," had been a Republican stronghold for years.

Bing defeated his Republican challenger after Ravitz stepped down in 2002, and Republican strength in the area seems to have ebbed. This year, David Casavis, who formerly worked for other GOP candidates, represents the Republican cause. In an interview with the West Side Spirit, he held out little chance of a win.

"I'll at least restore a little dignity," Casavis said. "What I'd like to do is break 30 percent. Gosh if I could break 40 percent, that'd be a dream."

In his 32 Day Pre-General filing report, Bing reported raising $15,920 in the past months and having a balance at the end of September of $280,300. Casavis had raised $45 and ended the period with $345