[VIDEO IN EXTENDED ARTICLE]

While pundits were doubting his ability to collect enough signatures, in 4 days, to make the ballot, a beaming Eliot Spitzer reported 27,000 collected signatures, just an hour before the deadline outside the board of Elections.

“Against the odds and all predictions–and in light of some who tried to thwart the effort–I am pleased to announce that we have collected more than 27,000 signatures in four days,” said Mr. Spitzer. “I want to thank those who assisted with this effort and the New Yorkers who signed these petitions. I pledge to stand with you against the special interests and on the crucial issues.”

FWIW: My Tweet on July 9th:

Despite the doubt raised by the media http://t.co/ATzwIL9vMY I still believe Spitzer will manage getting qualified for the ballot.

— Jacob Kornbluh (@jacobkornbluh) July 9, 2013

And, my prediction today that came closest to the final count:

10-12K; 5K valid RT @Azi: #Predictions? How many signatures does #Spitzer file? How many will be deemed valid?

— Jacob Kornbluh (@jacobkornbluh) July 11, 2013

(Jacob Kornbluh – YWN)