Currier hopeful of running for Dems

Timmy J. Currier hoped for the blessing of St. Lawrence County Democrats to seek the party's nomination for the 118th Assembly District. After Wednesday night's meeting of the county committee, he's still hoping for that blessing.

A long, closed-door session of the committee ended with no decision on the question of whether Mr. Currier would receive an out-of-party authorization to run on the party's line. Mark J. Bellardini, vice chairman of the county committee, said Wednesday's meeting was "cordial" but the committee didn't act on the Massena police chief's request.

In Jefferson County, that decision has been made, however.

"Although I think Tim Currier is a great guy and he's done well for his county, I do have to stand behind our Democratic candidates now," said Sean M. Hennessey, Jefferson County Democratic chairman. "We fully support Addie and her push to take the 118th Assembly seat."

Addie J. Russell, a Jefferson County legislator, announced her bid Tuesday.

With the St. Lawrence County committee's failure to take action on Mr. Currier's request, he is left in a sort of no-man's land — he is free to seek party members' signatures on nominating petitions, but those petitions won't be accepted by the Board of Elections without the out-of-party authorization.

That means receiving permission from Mr. Hennessey and St. Lawrence County Chairwoman June F. O'Neill.

Mr. Currier, Massena, remained optimistic Wednesday afternoon.

"We're hopeful that we'll have some conversation with Sean," he said, and make a case for being included in the party's plans.

Besides his Democratic bid, Mr. Currier has sought an endorsement from the Working Families Party. If minor party officials oblige, the endorsement also would permit Mr. Currier to use the line during the election. Without the Working Families Party nod, Mr. Currier could run as an independent.

Times state editor Perry White and staff writer Corey Fram contributed to this report.