It appears the race to succeed Leonard R. Lenihan as chairman of the Erie County Democratic Party is only beginning, as more names enter the mix.
One interesting new entry receiving attention on Wednesday is Jeremy J. Zellner, the chief of staff of the County Legislature and longtime Lenihan assistant in Democratic Headquarters. He is known to maintain close times with Lenihan as well as County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz, who has indicated he expects to play a key role in helping select the new party chairman.
Several critics question how Zellner could serve as chairman of the party while working in the Legislature at the same time, but Zellner proponents say it is too early to even consider such details. In fact, just about all those familiar with the developing contest say it is too early to arrive at any conclusions.
--Robert J. McCarthy
