ALBANY, N.Y. -- Democrat Joseph Sullivan spent much of Thursday getting those last few signatures.
"I just need a few more to be on the ballot," Sullivan said to a signer.
While across town signatures were turning up to be turned in by the thousands.
"Eight thousand one hundred and eighty one," said Jim Buhrmaster, a Republican candidate in the 21st District. "We had people working in all seven counties."
"For me personally, this is a milestone," said Steven Vasquez, another Republican candidate.
"Two hundred volunteers carried for countless numbers of hours for the last month," said Tracey Brooks, a Democratic candidate. "Today is the day that I become someone you can vote for on September 9th."
And with that primary just weeks away, the candidates are revved up about a key issue. You guessed it.
Have you signed a petition recently to help a candidate get on the ballot this fall? Well if you signed, your signature and many others are now in the hands of the State Board of Elections. For those vying to replace retiring Congressman Mike McNulty it's a step on the campaign trail that can't be missed. Our Britt Godshalk reports.
"Energy," said Buhrmaster. "No question. Right now energy seems to be affecting everything."
"New York has the second highest energy costs in the nation," said Phil Steck, another Democratic candidate.
"I'm the one talking about the energy situation and some real solutions," said Sullivan.
"We can actually become independent of foreign oil," said Brooks.
"Everybody will label their strengths in this campaign and mine undoubtedly is the long term energy policy experience and expertise," said Paul Tonko, another Democratic candidate.
Speaking of energy that's exactly what the candidates are gonna need moving forward. Coming to the State Board of Elections was just the first milestone of many. On Tuesday they must file their 2nd quarter financial reports with the Federal Election Commission.
"I think that you obviously always need dollars to get out your message," said Tonko.
It'll be the first time Democrat Paul Tonko reports his numbers. Democrat Phil Steck led the pack in the 1st quarter with a $200,000 bankroll, although about a fourth of it came from his own wallet.
We've always put in some of our own money and I think it shows commitment.
Democrat Tracey Brooks was not far behind, with nearly $180,000. But those with less in their coffers are just as much on the ballot.
"Money minus message is meaningless," said Darius Shahinfar, another Democratic candidate.
"As an entrepreneur I'll be able to do a great deal with very little resources," said Vasquez.
For Sullivan, it's not even part of the equation.
"I haven't raised any money and I haven't hardly spent anything," he said.
Voters have 72 hours from the time the petitions were filed to contest any of them. The State Board of Elections says all the petitions will be viewable online on their website, www.elections.state.ny.us