Some of the more astute observers of local politics may know Phil Steck as the rather successful chair of the Colonie Democratic Party. He’s also a solidly progressive candidate for Congress, getting out and in front months before any other candidate. While other popular and well-known politicians may later join him in the race, he’s a candidate to seriously consider.

I met Phil Steck at an house party and lecture for Hillary Clinton for President. He is an amazingly articulate lawyer who has been practicing on the federal bar for many years. He has worked some very difficult cases, and understands how difficult it can be for you and I to have a voice in Washington. He is also not so close to the establishment for comfort.

Phil Steck is a voice of reasoned thinking when it comes to Iraq. He wants our troops home, and he believes we need to put more pressure on our leaders in Washington to do the right thing. He realizes that there is a process to get things done, but is not afraid to fight for what is right. Even if he does not ultimately win in the race for Congress, he will be a voice for change.

One of Phil Steck’s key opponents is widely expected to be Tracy Brooks, who currently is busy serving Senator Hillary Clinton in her Albany office. Tracy has chosen to stay out of the race so she can continue to service our Senator, and caused her to fall far behind Steck in endorsements and scoring potential primary voters. Her campaign is bounded to be flawed, with no issues above and beyond that of her work for Senator Clinton.

There is nothing wrong with Tracy Brooks, and she also would be good Congressman. It’s too bad that timing did not work for Tracy again this time and gotten into the race earlier, as Steck has gotten many of the early endorsements. I also doubt Tracy will come out nearly as strong against the war as Phil already has. I also fear that Tracy will be too caught up in the ways of Washington and the Albany-establishment to be the way of the future. Tracy strikes one as a career politician, more then one who will shake things up.

It is unlikely that there will be a successful Republican-challenger in this race, as the district is so heavily gerrymandered in favor of Democrats by the state legislature. I suspect however that Steck would be one of the most electable candidates the Democrats could run, without a controversial voting record or being so closely tied to the sometimes controversial Hillary Clinton. It would be great to elect a Congressman with a strong majority of the votes.

I look forward to seeing Mr. Steck run, and I will be proud to help him out in his bid for Congress. I would encourage you also to join me in supporting Phil Steck.