What Does Bill Nojay's Death Mean for This Week's Primary?

ROCHESTER, N.Y. -- Assemblyman Bill Nojay’s death is a shock certainly to his family and friends, but also to voters about to head to the polls.

The chairman of the Monroe County Board of Elections says the Republican primary for the 133rd Assembly District will continue as scheduled. They say state law requires Nojay's name remain on the ballot because he died within seven days of the primary. The board of elections says in a situation like this, many of the next steps are determined by party leaders. 

"I've never dealt with anything like this where a candidate has passed away, so we're learning as we go forward," said Monroe County GOP Chairman Bill Reilich. "The election will take place Tuesday, the primary. People will vote for whomever we choose, and we'll have to deal with it from that point on." 

If voters choose Nojay's primary opponent and Honeoye Falls Mayor, Richard Milne, he will go on to face Democrat Barbara Baer in November. Milne says he's suspending all political activity until further notice.

"While we have tried to stop some of the radio ads, this may not be possible, but we are trying," Milne said in a statement. "As a candidate and more importantly as a person, I am devastated by today's events. My heartfelt condolences go out to the family and supporters of Assemblyman Nojay."

And the Monroe County Democratic committee shared this statement on Nojay's death: "Our community is shocked and deeply saddened by the passing of Assemblyman Bill Nojay. While we disagreed on most policy issues, Bill was a kind and smart man who was a pleasure to see on the campaign trail. Out of respect, we are temporarily suspending our campaign in the 133rd Assembly District."

If voters choose Nojay on Tuesday, Reilich says the party chairs of the counties represented in the 133rd District -- Monroe, Livingston and Steuben -- would have 10 days to get together and determine a candidate.  

Reilich says the Governor isn't calling a special election this late in the race. That means Nojay's seat will remain empty until the successor is sworn in this January.