Bob Reilly: Dave Mandel | Sherdog.com
Reilly, a Democrat first elected in 2004, defeated Republican Jennifer Whalen. The 109th District Assemblyman has been outspoken in his opposition to the sanctioning of MMA in the Empire State, opposing multiple bills proposing the sport's legalization in New York. It was a strong night for Reilly's political kin as well, as Democrats won the majority of New York's mid-term elections, according to CBS.com.
Democrat Andrew Cuomo was voted in as New York's new governor. Cuomo succeeds David Paterson in the office and has yet to take a formal position on the legalization of MMA in his state. He reportedly received nearly $75,000 in campaign contributions from Zuffa during this election cycle according to the New York Post.
Reilly's reelection is viewed by many MMA fans, who otherwise might have no interest in New York politics, as a major setback for the advancement of the sport. Reilly is a member of the state Assembly's Tourism, Parks, Arts and Sports Development Committee, which is responsible for legislation in regard to tourism and its economic effect on the state.
Mixed martial arts is currently sanctioned in 43 states.