The start of the petitioning period last Tuesday signaled the official kick-off of the 2010 campaign season, but state lawmakers are stuck in Albany while the budget battle drags on and their opponents capitalize on their absence back home.

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Mindful this is not the best year to be “out of sight, out of mind” with an electorate increasingly willing to dump incumbents, Assemblyman Jeff Aubry has started roboing his constituents to assure that he’s gone but not forgotten.

UPDATE: Aubry does have a primary opponent. Anthony Miranda, who founded the Latino Officers Association and ( I believe) used to work for expelled ex-Sen. Hiram Monserrate, is reportedly circulating petitions to get onto the ballot.

Starting this morning, residents in the 35th AD (that’s Queens, upstaters) started receiving a 37-second message from the Democratic lawmaker. He explains why he hasn’t been seen as much in the district as of late and reassures them that there will be no government shutdown.

Here’s the script:

“Hi, this is your assemblyman, Jeff Aubry. I’ve been in Albany doing what you’ve elected me to do, representing your interests and making sure vital services are protected for our community. Although the budget has not passed as of yet, state government will not shut down. You will continue to receive services provided by the state. And you will also continue to receive your state benefits.”

“Once again this is your assemblyman, Jeff Aubry, and I will continue to fight for you. Please call my office at xxx-xxx-xxxx if I can be of assistance to you or if you have any questions. Thank you, and have a good evening.”

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