For thousands of Doug Hoffman supporters, this observation — that he could emerge victorious — is roughly akin to saying that the sun could rise tomorrow in the east.<\/p>\n
But when this race began back in the summer, the idea of a third-party neophyte upsetting the two big parties at their own game seemed — improbable.<\/p>\n
Then Hoffman’s small-government, low tax message mingled with growing anger at the “establishment” Republican Party, which had chosen moderate Dede Scozzafava. <\/p>\n
That chemistry mingled again with the tea party-town hall furor of the summer and ignited.<\/p>\n
The result? Hundreds of thousands of dollars funneling into the region from national donors and interest groups.<\/p>\n
Passionate activism by many locals who believe that Republicans as well as Democrats have “abandoned” them.<\/p>\n
Mr. Hoffman’s campaign has harnessed that energy efficiently and effectively, wreaking havoc on the campaign of Scozzafava. ‘<\/p>\n
At last night’s debate, Scozzafava acknowledged being outspent “15-to-1,” but she also acknowledged interest groups’ right to contribute money.<\/p>\n
In a low-turnout special election — where voters will be split three-way — that could very well be enough to spark a victory. <\/p>\n
Many observers have been critical of Doug Hoffman’s campaign, including the alleged use of “dirty tricks”<\/a> by his supporters and his decision to avoid most of the public forums<\/a> and debates.<\/p>\n