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A Tale of Two Jims: Seward and Blake square off for Republican nod in 51st Senate District

By WKTV News

Story Created: Sep 13, 2012 at 5:04 PM EDT

Story Updated: Sep 13, 2012 at 5:06 PM EDT

DECISION 2012 (WKTV) - James Seward has not had a Primary opponent for his Senate seat in two decades, but all that has changed as he faces off against political newcomer James Blake.

While new to politics, Blake used to work in the software industry and is challenging Seward for the 51st Senate District, which Seward has held for for 26 years.

Seward said he is proud of his record supporting the local school systems, fire and police departments and libraries and wants to work to ensure these entities thrive in the future.

Blake says we need to create new jobs to prevent young people from leaving the state.

"I want them to stay here," Blake said. "I love my kids and I want them to grow up here. I want to see them and I want to see their kids."

"I feel good about the future of New York and this district because I think we are headed in the right direction," Senator Seward said.

The 51st Senate district spans nine counties, including Otsego and Herkimer Counties.

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