It's no secret Erie County Comptroller Stefan Mychajliw has had his eye on New York's 27th Congressional District seat for a while.

"I'm a true conservative and I've won three times countywide in a very dark blue district," Mychajliw, (R) said.

Mychajliw declared his candidacy in 2018 when then-Congressman Chris Collins — facing federal charges — briefly suspended his campaign.

He dropped out when Collins ultimately decided to run but didn't immediately re-enter when the incumbent resigned a little more than a year later — instead waiting until this week.

"There is a more clear picture of what the process entails. The chairs had said they're going to interview declared candidates and so it was time for me to get into the race to be considered for a potential special election,” said Mychajliw.

An attorney representing the governor recently indicated he plans to call a special election for April 28 — the same day as the state presidential primary.

Mychajliw says his decision was prompted in part because the eight Republican County chairs met this week to begin discussing who to designate as their candidate.

"This is not a popularity contest. They cannot choose who they like. It has to be based on one factor, who can win,” said Mychajliw.

He believes if the election is indeed held on the same day when Democrats are expected to turn out for a presidential primary, he is the best option to keep the congressional district red.

While the other Republican candidates, current state Sens. Chris Jacobs and Rob Ortt and Fox News contributor Beth Parlato, have a significant head start, Mychajliw doesn't think he's too late.

"I hope they have not made a decision. If chairs have already made a decision then that has already compromised the process. That means they've made a decision without even hearing from candidates yet,” said Mychajliw.

Democrat Nate McMurray, who narrowly lost to Collins two years ago, is expected to be the Democratic designee.