Scozzafava's husband backs Democrat Owens; former Sen. Meier backs Hoffman

The NY Daily News is reporting that Republican Dede Scozzafava's housband, Ron McDougall, is backing Democrat Bill Owens.

McDougall is a well-known union organizer and activist and described his move in those terms:

"This has been a difficult day for my family. But the needs and concerns of the men and women of the 23rd Congressional District remain paramount," McDougall said. "As such, I wholeheartedly and without reservation endorse the candidacy of Bill Owens."

“As a life-long labor activist, I know that Bill Owens understands the issues important to working people. On the other hand, Doug Hoffman has little regard for the interests of workers."

"Hoffman’s opposition to the Employee Free Choice Act, coupled with his support for the failed policies of the Bush Administration make him a poor choice to serve the citizens of the 23rd Congressional District.”

On the other hand, former state Sen. Ray Meier today endorsed Conservative Doug Hoffman.

“With the withdrawal of Assemblywoman Scozzafava, this is now not just a race between two candidates, but between two fundamentally different visions for the future of our country. Doug Hoffman is an independent business owner who has given a life of service to his community. He will make a strong stand against a federal government that is intent on ever growing spending, debt, and intrusion upon our liberties.

In contrast, his opponent seems eager to get to Washington so he can add his support to Speaker Nancy Pelosi and the agenda that has already spent and borrowed our children and grandchildren into a perilous and uncertain future. Doug Hoffman deserves your vote because he is the only candidate in this race with the integrity to care more about the next generation than the next election.”

“North Country voters have the opportunity to fire the shot that the spenders and taxers in Washington will not be able to ignore. They can do so by the simple exercise of the right to vote—won by patriots who actually put their lives on the line. Change is coming. Americans are reclaiming their country. Let it begin in New York by electing Doug Hoffman.”