The race between assemblyman James Tedisco and financier Scott Murphy in New York's 20th Congressional district is too close to call this morning. The latest count has Murphy ahead by a scant 65 votes with many absentee ballots still to be counted. With all precincts reporting, the Democrat, Scott Murphy, a 39-year-old venture capitalist, led 77,344 to 77,279 over his Republican rival, Assemblyman James N. Tedisco, 58, for the seat vacated by Senator Kirsten E. Gillibrand, a Democrat. The turnout was surprisingly strong for a special election.But 10,055 absentee ballots were issued — and 5,907 received so far, state election officials said — meaning the election cannot be decided until the paper ballots are counted. Moreover, it is likely that the count may not begin until at least April 6, said Bob Brehm, a spokesman for the State Board of Elections. Republicans held out hope of recapturing the seat in the 20th Congressional District, which is heavily Republican...(Read Full Post)