Obama wades into the middle of NY-23, hosting Owens fundraiser

The stakes just got much, much higher in the special election to replace John McHugh.

President Barack Obama will host a high-dollar fundraiser for Democrat Bill Owens, in Manhattan, an event that comes with a (correction, via Watertown Daily Times) $4,800 per plate price tag.

Here’s a report from The Hill newspaper in Washington:

Obama has been reticent to get involved in congressional races, especially House contests, and has more often than not had Vice President Joe Biden do the political legwork for him.

His involvement in the state’s other special election earlier this year was limited; he gave Democrat Scott Murphy his endorsement and Biden did a radio ad for the candidate.

That has led to some grumbling among Democrats who wish the president would do more in the special elections and other races.

Veep biden has already hosted one Owens event.

In addition to much-needed cash (the Oct. 20th event will come roughly two weeks before E-day) the event could bolster Owens’ street cred among rank-and-file Dems.

The only independent poll conducted so far, by Siena Research, shows Owens pulling in less than half of registered Dems.

Owens issued a statement:

“It’s an honor to have the president’s backing, and I’m grateful that he is taking the time to support our campaign. I look forward to working with President Obama in Congress, where I’ll join his efforts to create jobs and get our economy back on track.”