Congressman Hanna Considering Run for Governor

Congressman Richard Hanna is considering a run for Governor of New York, according to a report in Monday's New York Daily News.

According to a Republican operative speaking with the Daily News, the retiring Congressman has told people that he has been approached by some fellow Republicans recently about the possibility of running in 2018.  The News said Hanna has told people he's "open to at least thinking about it."

The Daily News also reported that the consideration is coming even as Hanna "is building a home outside of the state," according to the source.  However, Hanna told WIBX on Monday afternoon that he's owned a house in Virginia for quite some time. "It's actually about 5 hours from D.C.. My wife loves the water so that's why I bought it," he said.  When asked if he was moving out of New York State, Hanna explained firmly that his home is in Barneveld, north of Utica.  "We're staying put. We're not going anywhere," he said.

The Congressman who made news recently when he became the first Republican representative to endorse Hillary Clinton for President, will be retiring at the end of the year.  His seat is actually considered one of the toss-up districts in the upcoming November election between Assemblywoman Claudia Tenney, newcomer Kim Meyers and independent candidate Martin Babinec. WIBX will hold a debate from 7:30 a.m. until 9 a.m. on Friday during the Keeler show and each of the candidates is expected to participate.