Paladino Upsets Lazio

In New York's Republican bid for governor, Carl Paladino beat Rick Lazio, who had led by as much as 20 points earlier in the summer. Early numbers had Paladino leading Lazio by as much as 2:1 margin. Lazio, from Long Island and considered the more moderate of the candidates, had the backing of the New York GOP establishment, while Paladino held the Tea Party endorsement. meanwhile, U.S. Rep. Charlie Rangel from Harlem held on to his seat, despite the numerous corruption scandals that have tainted his name. Rangel hopes to continue his 40-year legacy in the House, and is fighting off the son the man he beat for the seat in 1970. His challenger, Adam Clayton Powell IV, was one of four vying for the seat, splitting the vote against Rangel. Another corruption-plagued New York Democrat, the Bronx’s State Sen. Pedro Espada, Jr., who also led last year’s Albany Democratic revolt, has already conceded to his challenger, Gustavo Rivera.