Westchester Republicans have dropped their support for congressional candidate Jim Russell over claims that a 2001 essay he penned is racist and was printed by a magazine that has been labeled a hate group.

Russell denies being a racist and says that his essay has been taken out of context by his political rivals.

Doug Colety, chairman of the Westchester GOP, says that while he did not read the article himself, he was briefed on the contents of Russell's writing and, as a result, says his party was forced to withdraw its support for him.

Colety said the party would go to court to get Russell off the ballot. Failing that, he said it might sponsor a write-in candidate.

Russell is seeking to unseat Rep. Nita Lowey (D - N.Y.) in the 18th Congressional District.

Read Russell's complete essay by clicking here.