Daily Campaign Roundup: Cross Endorsements For Gianaris And Espaillat
By Mike Connery on 09/01/2010 @ 02:45 PM
TODAY'S CAMPAIGN ROUND-UP.... Today's installment of campaign-related news. Assemblymen Mike Gianaris and Adriano Espaillat endorse each other in their respective State Senate campaigns. Sen. David Valesky passes expansion of historic rehabilitation tax credit. Robin Wilt and her campaign are profiled by City Hall News.
- Mike Gianaris and Adriano Espaillat receive eachother's endorsement- Espaillat and Gianaris have cross-endorsed one another in their respective bids to become State Senators. Gianaris is running unopposed for the 12th SD seat being vacated by retiring Queens Sen. George Onorato. Espaillat is running in the 31st SD that Sen. Eric Schneiderman is giving up to run for state attorney general.
Gianaris noted that Espaillat has been a lead co-sponsor of his independent redistricting bill, while Espaillat also praised Gianaris, whose "commitment to independent redistricting speaks to his commitment to reform Albany so as to ensure that New York has a State Government that is fair, transparent, effective and responsible." - Sen. Dave Valesky passes expansion of rehabilitation tax credit - Legislation sponsored by Sen. Valesky that expands the Historic Preservation Tax Credit was signed into law. The expansion allows banks and insurance companies to claim the tax credit, which will have a positive effect on commercial development efforts of historic structures across the state.
“Continued economic development is integral to the growth and expansion of our Upstate communities,” said Sen. Valesky. “By allowing banks and insurance companies to utilize the HRTC, we are creating more incentive for companies to invest in larger projects in Upstate New York, which will spur economic growth and development.” - Robin Wilt has winning strategy against her opponent- Robin Wilt, running against 20-year Albany insider Joe Robach, was profiled by City Hall News. The article describes how Wilt was first pulled into politics by Progressive Democrats for America and their activist work in opposition to George W. Bush’s war in Iraq and controversial wiretapping program. Today, however, her concerns are focused on her Senate district. “I’m disturbed when I see the talent that leaves this area,” Wilt said. “I’m concerned that, despite the fact that we have a lot of good institutions of higher learning, we can’t claim that power because of the lack of economic opportunity.”
Daily Campaign Roundup: Sens. Aubertine And Valeseky Stand Up For Farmers
By Mike Connery on 08/11/2010 @ 03:43 PM
TODAY'S CAMPAIGN ROUND-UP.... Today's installment of campaign-related news. Sens. Aubertine and Valesky deliver for farmers. Tony Avella catches attention of The New York Daily News. Didi Barrett is hearing the concerns of voters in her district. Joanne Yepsen expresses optimism over Aqueduct's bid being approved by Senate. Kathleen Joy endorsed by colleagues. Robin Wilt profiled by The Albany Project.
- Sens. Darrel Aubertine and Dave Valesky praised for standing up for farmers – Farmers across New York applauded Sens. Aubertine and Valesky for leading the effort to defeat the Omnibus Farmmworker Labor Bill that would have had catstrophic effects for farms across the state. Dean Norton, president of New York Farm Bureau, said he was grateful for Sen. Aubertine’s hard to educate other Senators on “the devastating effects this bill would have on agriculture and the rural economy.” He also praised Sen. Valesky for recognizing “that the bill was totally incompatible with farming today, which depends on unreliable weather to plant and harvest crops. He cast his vote in favor of our local farmers and the future of local foods and the rural economy.”
- Tony Avella’s campaign catches attention of The Daily News – Celeste Katz of The Daily News ran a piece on Tony Avella and his campaign to unseat 38-year Albany politician Frank Padavan earlier today. Katz referred to Avella as a “die-hard maverick reformer.” Avella had to say this about his vision for Albany: “We need new leadership in Albany and we need fresh voices and we need reform, and I think Sampson understands that. As I say, I've spoken to a number of the incumbent Democratic state senators and they look forward to having me up there. They want another voice to speak out and say we need change."
- Didi Barrett listening to voters, addressing their concerns – Michael Boyajian, of Room Eight Politics, trailed Didi Barrett as she knocked on doors in her district introducing herself to voters. Boyajian reported an overwhelming anger with the politics of Albany and described voters who liked that Barrett “was not a politician but a concerned citizen called to duty because of what was happening in the state capital” and who were happy they “someone like Didi who was listening” to their concerns. You can read Boyajian’s full account here.
- Aqueduct deal a step closer to completion after Senate Democrats accept bid - Genting New York LLC's status as the likely vendor to build and operate an Aqueduct racino is closer to completion Senate Democrats accepted the Division of Lottery's recommendation. This was welcome news to Democratic Candidate Joanne Yepsen, who has been outspoken in demanding a timely consideration of the bid. “The VLTs have been an issue for many years, but it’s especially stressful right now because everyone’s out of money,” said Yepsen. “If the deal doesn’t go through this year, New York State will have to find another industry to bring to the forefront, because people are at the end of their economic ropes.” Yepsen has been underscoring the impact a struggling racing industry. “The industry alone provides 35,000 jobs, to say nothing of all of the spin-off business it generates,” she said. “This isn’t just a Saratoga issue, or a Queens issue.”
- Democratic Candidate Kathleen Joy endorsed by local politicians, declares herself an independent voice – Kathleen Joy was endorsed by some of her colleagues on the Syracuse Common Council earlier today. Joy declared that she will be a voice of independence in Albany, despite pressures that may exist to vote with her party. She pointed to this year's budget negotiations as a perfect example in demonstrating the need for such a perspective. "This was not the best way to go. If I were in Albany, I would have done things differently. Again, it goes back to collaboration. Let's work hard. Let's sharpen up our pencils. Let's get something done," said Joy.
- Robin Wilt profiled by The Albany Group - Robin Wilt had her campaign in the 56th SD profiled by The Albany Project. She described her candidacy for the State Senate as a “natural extension of the experiences I have accrued over the past several years as a small business owner, a parent, and a community activist advocating for policy that will help working families.”
Wilt also explained how an economic resurgence in Rochester is possible: “Rochester is blessed with a highly-educated population that historically has been very entrepreneurial. With targeted development funds, Rochester could become a center for green-based technologies, and we could create opportunities in educating a work force trained in implementing those technologies." You can check out the rest of the interview here.
Meet Democratic Candidate Robin Wilt
By Mike Connery on 08/11/2010 @ 12:28 PM
Democratic Candidate Robin Wilt had her campaign in the 56th SD profiled by The Albany Project yesterday.
Wilt had this to say on why she is running:
"My candidacy for State Senate is a natural extension of the experiences I have accrued over the past several years as a small business owner, a parent, and a community activist advocating for policy that will help working families. Between his tenures in the State Assembly and Senate, my opponent has represented Monroe County residents in Albany for almost 18 years. However, in that time frame, our region has experienced a loss of 32% of its manufacturing base, a decline in population, and a steady increase in its tax burden. As someone who has experienced first-hand the travails of a stagnant economy, I will bring a perspective to Albany that will guide my policy-making in a way that my opponent cannot appreciate as a career politician. Unlike my opponent, I will not displace blame for the lack of progress in our region on other law makers, rather I will take responsibility for ensuring that policy is implemented that helps constituents in the greater Rochester area."
On how to create a much-needed economic resurgence in Rochester:
"Rochester has an aging infrastructure that is not as environmentally-sensitive as it needs to be for our evolving energy reality. Proactive initiatives to implement more energy-efficient building technologies have the dual benefit of saving money on utility expenditures, while being homegrown. Jobs greening our infrastructure cannot be shipped overseas, and by becoming leaders in the development and implementation of these technologies, Rochester-based contractors can become a resource to other communities. Rochester is blessed with a highly-educated population that historically has been very entrepreneurial. With targeted development funds, Rochester could become a center for green-based technologies, and we could create opportunities in educating a work force trained in implementing those technologies."
Wilt's campaign against 18-year Albany politician Joe Robach has steadily been gaining momentum since she declared her candidacy a few months ago. She has recently been endorsed by both Eleanor's Legacy and The Women's Campaign Forum.
You can check out the rest of the interview here.
Daily Campaign Roundup: Eleanor's Legacy Endorses Three More Democratic Candidates
By Mike Connery on 08/06/2010 @ 03:28 PM
TODAY'S CAMPAIGN ROUND-UP.... Today's installment of campaign-related news. Eleanor's Legacy endorses three more Democratic candidates. Sen. Darrel Aubertine receives major union endorsement. U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gilliibrand to attend brunch for Democratic candidate Joanne Yepsen. Democratic candidate Robin Wilt to be interviewed by The Albany Project.
- Eleanor's Legacy endorses three more Democratic candidates - The Eleanor Roosevelt Legacy Committee, an organization focused on bringing a new generation of Democratic women candidates, informed voters, and political activists throughout New York, endorsed Susan Savage, Kathleen Joy, and Carol Gordon yesterday - bringing the total of endorsed Democratic candidates to 10. Eleanor's Legacy previously endorsed Didi Barrett, Cynthia Appleton, Regina Calcaterra, Pam Mackesey, Mary Wilmot, Robin Wilt, and Joanne Yepsen. They called these women leaders in their community that "will be powerful voices in Albany" and "who represent the new face of leadership in New York."
- Sen. Darrel Aubertine receives major union endorsement - The Central Trades and Labor Council endorsed Sen. Aubertine yesterday in his bid for reelection. The council represents more than 24,000 AFL-CIO members in Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties. "This is a huge endorsement," Mr. Aubertine said. "Clearly, having the support of the labor community is a huge asset. I'm gratified that it went the way it did." Sen. Aubertine's principled vote earlier this year against the furlough of workers in a budget extender was important, and was made in consultation with labor leaders, he said. "It wasn't cavalier," he said. "That decision wasn't made in the dark of night."
- U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand to attend fundraising brunch for Democratic Candidate Joanne Yepsen - Joanne Yepsen is getting a little help from a big name in her effort to unseat Republican incumbent Roy McDonald. U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand will be attending a fundraising brunch Aug. 14 to benefit Yepsen’s campaign. In a show of the tremendous local support of her campaign, she outraised McDonald by more than $30,000 -- and had $76,000 cash on hand -- in her last filing.
- What would you ask Democratic Candidate Robin Wilt? - In their third installment of interviews of Democratic State Senate challengers, The Albany Project will be interviewing Robin Wilt, who is challenging Republican incumbent Joe Robach in the 56th Senatorial District. You can send your questions in for Robin here.
Daily Campaign Roundup: New York A Finalist For Race To The Top Funding
By Mike Connery on 07/27/2010 @ 05:13 PM
TODAY'S CAMPAIGN ROUND-UP.... Today's installment of campaign-related news. New York announced as a finalist for $700 million in Race To The Top Funding. Women's Campaign Forum endorses four Democratic candidates. Democratic candidate Mike Kaplowitz profiled by Albany Times Union. Sen. Darrel Aubertine proud of his independent support.
- New York a finalist for $700 million in Race To The Top funding - New York state is a finalist for up to $700 million in federal education funds as part of the Race To The Top competition. This is a direct result of the Senate Democratic majority pushing through major legislation in recent months that allow test scores to be used in teacher evaluations and that raised the number of charter schools in the state to 460 from 200.
- Women's Campaign Forum endorses four Democratic candidates - The Women's Campaign Forum has endorsed four Democratic candidates: Didi Barrett, Regina Calcaterra, Mary Wilmot, and Robin Wilt. The WCF is dedicated to advancing the political participation and leadership of women who support reproductive health choices for all. WCF, founded in 1974, is a non-partisan national network dedicated to achieving parity for women in public office.
- Democratic Candidate Mike Kaplowitz profiled by Albany Times Union - Mike Kaplowitz's campaign in Westchester was covered by Jimmy Vielkind on The Albany-Times Union's Capitol Confidential blog today. Vielkind mentioned Kaplowitz's pension reform ideas, which could potentially save taxpayers billions. In the piece, Kaplowitz spoke about how the GOP primary schism in the district is sure to play to his advantage. “There’s no question that the schism between the two of them will benefit me, because there are a lot of rank and file Republicans very angry with and very unhappy with the shenanigans of Assemblyman Greg Ball,” Kaplowitz said. (They include an allegation that Ball denies that he groped a woman at an Albany bar, sleeps with a gun under his bed and once found a dead goat on his driveway). “Particularly unhappy with him are the businesses, because he has been an assemblyman forfour years and has accomplished nothing. People call him Greg All-Talk-No-Accomplishment Ball.”
- Sen. Darrel Aubertine pleased to have endorsement of independent voters - Sen. Aubertine said yesterday that he is honored to have the endorsement of independent voters throughout his district. “I’m so pleased and honored to have the endorsement of the local independent voters and the Independence Party ballot line this fall,” Sen. Aubertine said. “Working for all of us means working together. I want to thank all nine members of the local Independence Party Committee and all of the local voters who signed petitions for your support and endorsement.” Over the past year, more than 50 pieces of legislation sponsored or co-sponsored by Sen. Aubertine passed the Senate.
Daily Campaign Roundup: 'Year of the Woman' Continues
By Mike Connery on 07/19/2010 @ 03:56 PM
TODAY'S CAMPAIGN ROUND-UP.... Today's installment of campaign-related news. Jimmy Vielkind of Albany Times Union looks into the 'Year of the Woman' and our slate of female candidates. NARAL New York endorses Democratic Senate candidates. Republican candidate Lee Zeldin gets angry and heated at a candidate screening. Democratic fundraising totals dwarf GOP numbers. Democratic Candidate Joanne Yepsen's fundraising haul still garnering press.
- ‘Year of The Woman’ continues –After POLITICO’s piece dubbing 2010 ‘Year of the Woman’ in New York in reference to our crop of female candidates, Jimmy Vielkind of the Albany Times Union chimed in, wondering if “dissatisfaction with state of state cause voters to think gender at polls?” He noted that our crop of 10 women candidates may benefit from the palpable anti-incumbency sentiment.
- NARAL Pro-Choice New York endorses numerous Democratic candidates - NARAL Pro-Choice New York announces their first round of endorsements in the 2010 election and named the following Democratic candidates for State Senate as 100% pro-choice candidates: Regina Calcaterra, Dave Mejias, Carol Gordon, Mike Gianaris, Didi Barrett, Susan Savage, Kathleen Joy, Pam Mackesey, and Robin Wilt. Not a single Republican Senate candidate was endorsed by NARAL.
- Lee Zeldin “turns angry” at candidate screening – Newsday reported that at a screening for a possible endorsement of Lee Zeldin, the Republican candidate running against Democratic Sen. Brian Foley, Zeldin “turned angry” when his military record came up. James LaCarrubba, Brian Foley's top aide, said no one questions Zeldin's service, just his demeanor. "We appreciate his service. But this is a man who wants to represent 300,000 people. And a candidate in a room full of people should be able to control his temper," he said.
- Senate Democrats significantly outraise GOP foes – With all the numbers in, Senate Democrats can now report a combined $25 million in fundraising for re-election efforts over the last 20 months, $10 million more than GOP lawmakers. "I think we'll expand the majority," said Sen. Jeff Klein, the chairman of the DSCC.
- Democratic Candidate Joanne Yepsen’s impressive fundraising haul continues to garner attention - The Saratogian became the latest media outlet to focus on Yepsen’s fundraising numbers. Yepsen announced last week that she has raised more than three times as much as her opponent since she announced her candidacy less than three months ago. Yepsen brought in a total $70,000, and currently has $60,000 cash on hand. Her opponent, Roy McDonald, shockingly announced that his cash on hand actually went down over the past six months. After starting January with $48,000 in the bank, he now has just $44,000.
Year of the Woman Hits NY
By Mike Connery on 07/16/2010 @ 04:40 PM
Writing at POLITICO, Maggie Haberman profiles Democratic women challenging incumbent Republicans in the State Senate, and notes that The Year of the Woman Hits New York :
The Year of the Woman candidate has arrived in New York for the 2010 cycle, with an unprecedented slate of 10 female hopefuls vying for legislative office on the Democratic side in a state known as politically progressive but lagging at the state level.
With help from EMILY's List over the last few years, the state Senate Democrats now have 10 women competing in districts ranging from swing-county Suffolk in Long Island to more rural areas of upstate New York.
"I think it is reflective of a larger pattern throughout the country," said state Sen. Liz Krueger (D-Manhattan), who is the recruitment chair for the political arm of the Senate Democrats. "Women in both parties throughout the country are looking at who's in office and saying, 'Oh hell, I can do better than that!'"
Women make up 52% of the population in New York State. So it's shameful that only 16% (just 10 out of 62) of our state senators are women. The slate of women candidates run by the New York Senate Dems could double the number of women serving in the state senate, and clear the way for progress on a host of issues including ethics reform and marriage equality. But what these women bring to the table goes far beyond reform and social issues that have defined past campaigns by women.
The slate of candidates looking to unseat 1/3 of the republican conference demonstrate a strong a track record of economic achievement around which they are focusing their campaigns. These women created jobs at the county level; they increased investment in green jobs; they even took on Wall Street giants – and won. They’re fighting not only to end the dysfunction in Albany, but to put our state back on sound economic footing
"I think what sets these women apart is they're accomplished in their own rights and own careers and now want to turn their attentions [to government]," said state Sen. Jeff Klein, adding that those running are not being pigeonholed into campaigning on what are typically considered "women's issues," a fate that has befallen some other female Empire State candidates.
This election cycle, the stakes have never been higher. Democrats hold a razor-thin, one vote majority in the State Senate. The outcome of these races will determine how effective we are at moving a Democratic Agenda in 2011 and putting our state back on track.
As Susan Savage, the Democratic challenger to 34-year incumbent Hugh Farley, says – “We're not going to change Albany until we change the people that we send to Albany.” With your help, these women will unseat Republican obstructionists who created Albany’s corrupt culture, help revive our economy, and give New Yorkers the government they deserve.
Below is a quick look at the New York Senate Dems class of women challengers. Click the links for more information, or to join and contribute to their campaigns.
- Susan Savage - Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature, she created thousands of jobs and brought millions in investments into the county. She is challenging 34-year incumbent Hugh Farley in the 44th Senate District.
- Joanne Yepsen - As Saratoga County Supervisor, Joanne Yepsen held down local taxes and helped local businesses. She is now challenging Joe Bruno’s hand-picked-successor, Roy McDonald, in the 43rd Senate District.
- Didi Barrett - A leader in the non profit world for decades, and a strong advocate for women in New York, Didi Barrett is challenging 20-year incumbent Steve Saland in the 41st Senate District, the seat once held by FDR.
- Mary Wilmot - As Regional Director for the Governor and the New York State Senate, Wilmot has extensive knowledge of the challenges Upstate New York faces, and she is determined to revitalize New York’s economy through investments in clean energy. Wilmot is challenging 14-year incumbent James Alesi in the 55th Senate District.
- Robin Wilt - As community activist, real estate agent, and small business owner, Wilt has seen first-hand the economic challenges facing Monroe County. She is the co-founder of the Genesee Valley chapter of Progressive Democrats of America, and is challenging seven-year incumbent Joe Robach.
- Regina Calcaterra - A corporate fraud lawyer who took on Wall Street and won, Regina Calcaterra is now taking the fight to thirty-four-year incumbent Ken LaValle in Suffolk County’s 1st Senate District.
- Kathleen Joy - Syracuse Common Counselor-At-Large and Majority Leader Kathleen Joy has a record promoting green infrastructure. She’s now challenging 18-year incumbent, and self-described GOP “pit bull” John DeFrancisco in the 50th Senate District.
- Cynthia Appleton - A three-term Village Trustee in Warsaw, NY, Appleton has first-hand experience with the impact of Albany’s dysfunction at the local level, and is ready to clean up the capital. She is running for the open seat vacated by retiring Republican Senator Dale Volker.
- Pam Mackesey - As a union organizer, she witnessed first-hand the struggles that everyday Schuyler, Steuben, and Chemung county residents face, Pam Mackesey is determined to defeat six-year incumbent George Winner in the 53rd Senate District.
- Carol Gordon - As a Mental Health Clinic Manager and Patient Advocate at the Department of Veterans Affairs, Carol Gordon served our veterans for 25 years. Now she is challenging twelve-year incumbent Charles Fuschillo in the 8th Senate District.
Daily Campaign Roundup: DSCC Posts Record Fundraising Numbers
By Mike Connery on 07/15/2010 @ 03:46 PM
TODAY'S CAMPAIGN ROUND-UP.... Today's installment of campaign-related news. DSCC announces record fundraising haul. POLITICO profiles the 10 Democratic candidates, declares 2010 "Year of the Woman.' New Siena poll spells more trouble for Senate GOP. Democratic Candidate David Mejias running strong on Long Island. Democratic Candidate Susan Savage outraises opponent by almost 2-1 margin since declaring candidacy. Westchester business group withdraws endorsements for local Republicans.
- Senate Democrats announce record fundraising numbers - We at the DSCC filed stellar fundraising numbers today - which The New York Times CityBlog described by saying "Senate Democrats Flush With Campaign Money". Capital Confidential said "we are rolling in it." We raised a historic $3.5 million during the first six months of the year, while spending less than $2 million. We now have $3.5 million in cash on hand - more than twice the amount of money we had at this point two years ago, when we went on to pick up two seats in the November elections and take control of the Senate for the first time in decades. “We are raising more money than ever before, competing in more regions of the state than ever before, and engaging with campaigns earlier than ever before. That’s why, in November, Democrats will win more seats than ever before,” said Sen. Jeff Klein, DSCC chair. “Today’s filing clearly shows that New Yorkers recognize that we have begun the work of putting government back in the hands of the people.”
- 'Year of the Woman' Hits New York - Maggie Haberman of POLITICO coined 2010 the 'Year of the Woman' in an extensive piece earlier today that hailed our "unprecedented slate of 10 female hopefuls... in districts ranging from swing-county Suffolk in Long Island to more rural areas of upstate New York." She quotes Democratic Candidate Susan Savage, who is running against 34-year incumbent Hugh Farley as saying: "I think we're not going to change Albany until we change the people that we send to Albany. "Many of these incumbents have been there a very long time ... I really do understand that there's a lot that needs to be accomplished and it's very hard to do that with the group of people that are in the Senate now." Haberman also pointed out that the Senate GOP are fielding just two women, one of whom is in a contentious primary battle.
- Siena Poll spells trouble for the Senate GOP - Siena released its most recent election poll earlier this morning, showing that less than one in four voters want a Republican Senate, and 69% of voters preferring the existing or an enlarged Democratic majority. In upstate New York - where Republicans sit in most of the Senate seats - just 26% of those polled wanted Republican control of the Senate, as opposed to the 68% who favored Democratic control. Voters upstate are far more pessimistic about the direction of the state - with 86% saying we are on the wrong track - and more likely to vote their incumbent Senator out of office. This is the just the latest in a series of polls that have consistently indicated trouble for Republicans and their electoral prospects this November.
- Democratic Candidate Dave Mejias running strong against Albany dysfunction - Former Nassau County Legislator Dave Mejias , who is running agsinst 21-year Republican incumbent Kemp Hannon, announced today he has raised $116,925 and has $112,921 cash on hand. Mejias also released a campaign kick-off video, in which he denounced the dysfunction in Albany. “I am grateful to all those who are supporting my campaign to clean up the most dysfunctional state government in America,” Mejias said in a press release. “I’m especially proud of those grassroots supporters who have given what they could afford because they believe I am the best candidate to fix our broken government.”
- Democratic Candidate Susan Savage's fundraising efforts are solid - Susan Savage, running against 34-year Republican incumbent Hugh Farley, reported today that she raised more than $75,000 for her campaign -- almost twice what Farley reported raising over the same time period. Savage said that if we want to change Albany, we have to change who we send to Albany. This filing is a clear sign that the people of New York agree," said Doug Forand, one of Savage's campaign advisers.
- Westchester business group retracts Republican endorsements in state senate races - A Westchester County business group backed off supporting three Republican candidates for state senate after some members expressed alarm over the sudden foray into partisan politics. The Business Council of Westchester offered an apology to its members and retracted a June 28 letter that touted meetings with Senate Minority Leader Dean Skelos, provided de facto endorsements in three races and called on members to "join the $99 club" by anonymously donating money to these campaigns. Council President and CEO Marsha Gordon, in an e-mail to members, apologized "for deviating from our tradition of being nonpartisan" and promised to return any checks.
Daily Campaign Roundup: Democrats Continue to Roll
By Mike Connery on 06/17/2010 @ 02:45 PM
TODAY'S CAMPAIGN ROUND-UP.... Today's installment of campaign-related news. Monroe County Democratic Candidate Robin Wilt officially kicks off her campaign; Democratic senators announce legislative progress; Republican's forced to defend Golden's cowardice and Lazio's ties to Bernie Madoff
- Robin Wilt announces candidacy for State Senate – Democrat Robin Wilt is receiving a lot of attention as she announced her campaign against Republican incumbent Joe Robach in Greece County (SD 56). Wilt is running to reform the way Albany works, lower property taxes, and create jobs. "I am tired of a system of legislative horse trading where standing on one's principles is derided as naïve and impractical," she said.
- Sen. Andrea Stewart-Cousins announces passage of legislation that will end voter coercion and intimidation practices – The Yonkers Insider ran a press release from Sen. Stewart-Cousins detailing the Deceptive Practices and Voter Suppression Prevention Act, a bill she recently helped pushed through the Senate. Read more about it here.
- Sen. Darrel Aubertine praised for education efforts – Education Reform Now, a Brooklyn-based public education advocate, sent mailers lauding Sen. Aubertine for supporting legislation that increases the number of charter schools statewide.
- Sen. Eric Schneidmernan wants another vote on microstamping – Sen. Schneiderman, co-sponsor of the microstamping legislation, is fighting to bring it back to the Senate floor for another vote. "I think the public outrage over essentially voting to protect gun criminals - shooters and murderers - because of some mythical harm that might be done to legitimate gun owners is just not flying," said Sen. Schneiderman.
- Martin Golden skipped microstamping vote in favor of more important “business”- Martin Golden told Liz Benjamin of Capital Tonight yesterday that he skipped out on the microstamping vote because he “had important business to take care of.” He added, however, that had he stayed on the floor and fulfilled his obligations as a senator, he would have voted against the bill.
- GOP Gubernational hopeful Rick Lazio tied to Bernie Madoff – Rick Lazio has more dysfunction and corruption to answer for today, as it was reported that he accepted thousands of dollars from ponzi-schemer Bernie Madoff, and his family, back in the the 1990s. At the time, Lazio was a congressman on the banking committee- responsible for oversight of the SEC, and ostensibly, of funds such as Madoff’s.
Robin Wilt to Challenge Joe Robach
By Mike Connery on 06/17/2010 @ 09:56 AM
Yesterday, Robin Wilt declared her candidacy for the 56th Senate District in Monroe County. Wilt is a strong candidate with roots in the local progressive Democratic community. She's the co-founder of the Genesee Valley chapter of Progressive Democrats of America, a small business owner, and a mother.
Her opponent is a 7 year incumbent, but the district is strongly Democratic. There are over 44,000 more registered Democrats than Republicans in the district.
Wilt is running on a platform of reforming Albany, and bringing needed jobs and opportunities back to the region. After a successful campaign launch yesterday, she's already receiving positive local press:
- Democrat and Chronicle: Robin Wilt to Challenge Joseph Robach in State Senate Race
- Rochester YNN: Robin Wilt Announces Run for 56th District Seat
- Rochester Turning: Robin Wilt Kick-Off For New York State Senate Tomorrow
- The Daily Record: Wilt running for state Senate in 56th District
- WHEC: Robin Wilt announcing candidacy for 56th State Senate District
Here is the full text of her launch announcement:
I am so gratified and humbled to see so many here today to support me in this endeavor.
We are gathered in Rochester’s first park, where Frederick Douglass was a frequent orator, and in the shadow of so many things that make this community great.
For years now, I have worked with many of you to bring about the common sense changes needed to have a government that is responsive to people, as opposed to corporate interests. I, like you, am tired of the dysfunction in Albany, and I am tired of a system of legislative horse trading where standing on ones principles is derided as naïve and impractical.
I stand here before you, an unlikely candidate for elected office. I don’t come from the political establishment. I truly am not a politician—much less a career politician like my opponent. As a mother, a community activist, and a business owner, I have undergone the struggles of an uncertain economic environment; and it is precisely that which makes me uniquely suited to represent the interests of everyday upstate New Yorkers in Albany.
I will go to Albany to implement the common sense policies that will positively impact the lives of the people in our district. I represent your challenges and frustrations with the status quo, but more importantly, I represent your hope that we can, through our efforts, change our system of government for the better. As you believe in the strength of our community and our potential for positive growth, I am asking you to believe that we can, through the success of this campaign, move one step closer to realizing a government that is as strong as the community it serves.
That’s why today I am solemnly asking for your support for my candidacy for the 56th Senate District.
We are at an historical crossroads for our community. We can either decide to maintain the broken system that has overseen the loss of jobs and opportunities for our region, or we can decide that it’s time that our government reflect the can-do spirit of the people it represents.
The task before us is not easy. This will be a vigorous race against a well-funded, entrenched politician. I know, however, through history, and through my own experiences, that a small group of committed individuals can effect real change. Imagine what we can do with all of the groups that are represented here today.
That’s why today I am asking that you join with me in gaining financial support for this campaign—and in return I promise that I will become an instrument of change to fix our broken campaign finance system. I ask that you sign up to carry petitions and literature in support of my campaign, and in return, I promise that I will carry your message of positive change to Albany. I ask that you make calls on my behalf to your friends and family, and in return, I promise to deliver a wakeup call to our legislators in Albany.
Thanks again everyone for being here to support me today. I look forward to working with all of you over the months to come.
Eleanor's Legacy Endorses 5 Women Candidates
By Mike Connery on 06/10/2010 @ 02:26 PM
Today, Eleanor's Legacy took the unprecedented step of making early endorsements of 5 women challengers running for State Senate:
- Didi Barrett, challenging Steve Saland in SD 41/ Dutchess & Columbia Counties.
- Regina Calcaterra, challenging Ken LaValle in SD1/Suffolk Couny
- Mary Wilmot, challenging James Alesi in SD 55/Monroe County
- Robin Wilt, challenging Joe Robach in SD 56/Monroe County
- Joanne Yepsen, challenging Roy McDonald in SD 43/Rensselaer & Saratoga County
With only 9 women serving in the state senate out of 62 total senators, the concerns of women are not being adequately represented in Albany. This endorsement from Eleanor's Legacy is a recognition that this needs to change, and that the fight to overthrow incumbent Republicans must begin today.
These campaigns need your support - to petition and get on the ballot, and to raise enough money to compete against heavily entrenched incumbents. Read the full endorsement from Eleanor's Legacy below, and sign up to support these great candidates win their fight.
Dear Friend,
Of the 62 members in the State Senate, just 10 are women. That's less than 16%. And we are determined to change that.
Breaking with precendent, we are providing early endorsement and support to 5 stellar candidates for the State Senate: Didi Barret, SD 41/Dutchess & Columbia; Regina Calcaterra SD 1/Suffolk; Mary Wilmot SD 55/Monroe; Robin Wilt SD 56/Monroe; Joanne Yepsen SD 43/Rensselaer & Saratoga. Learn more about these candidates.
We know that to see action finally taken on the issues important to our lives, women have to be at the table. We have to send these 5 women to Albany.
Help Didi, Regina, Mary, Robin, and Joanne get to Albany. Make a donation today.
It won’t be easy. These women are challenging entrenched incumbent Republican men who will have high name recognition in their districts. But we have something these Republican incumbents do not: a network of passionate, active women across the state.
Didi, Regina, Mary, Robin, and Joanne will be counting on our support from now until Election Day.
Click here to contribute today. Your finanical support means we can help these candidates level the playing field and get their message out to the voters.
Stay tuned for more updates from the campaign trail. It is going to be an exciting summer.
Nora Bredes President
Senate Class of 2010 Getting Positive Reaction
By Mike Connery on 05/27/2010 @ 01:01 PM
After their introduction to the New York Democratic political scene yesterday at the state convention, the members Senate Democrats Class of 2010 are receiving positive attention in the progressive blogosphere and from the state political press. Here's a sampling of the coverage thus far:
- The Albany Project loved the launch video, particularly the introduction by former City Councilman Tony Avella, who is challenging Frank Padavan in SD-11.
- Rochester Turning also loved the video, and was excited about the campaigns of Robin Wilt and Mary Wimot.
- Jimmy Vielkind chatted with Mary Wilmot and Susan Savage about their respective races.
- Celeste Katz posted our video, and provided coverage to all of our candidates.
- Finally, our candidates received a shout-out on the State of Politics blog.
If you haven't met the Class of 2010 yourself, be sure to check out the video and use our new battleground map to connect with their campaigns.
Change Albany Now: Senate Class of 2010
By Mike Connery on 05/26/2010 @ 05:01 PM
Earlier today at the State Party Convention, Senator Sampson introduced the Democratic Party, and all of New York, to the Senate Class of 2010. You can read his full remarks here (video coming soon).
As Senator Sampson noted in his address, these are the women and men in whom we are investing our hopes for the future. They are challenging Republican incumbents across New York State - from Monroe County all the way out to the tip of Long Island. They are running to Change Albany Now. But they need your help.
They need your help to get our candidates on the ballot. They need your help to staff the phone banks and stuff the mailers. They need your help to knock on doors and rally Democrats around this state.
And with your help, they'll win in November and bring real change to Albany.
Meet the Democratic Senate Class of 2010, and listen to their vision for a reformed New York. Then go out into your districts, recruit your friends and family, and help make that vision a reality.
Democrats Pass Earth Day Environment 2010 Agenda
By Mike Connery on 04/22/2010 @ 01:01 PM
Yesterday, the Senate Democrats passed a package of reforms that will protect our environment and the health of our children. The reforms, sponsored by Senate Dems Daniel Squadron, Antoine Thompson, Liz Kreuger, Andrea Stewart-Cousins, and Brian Foley, included:
- S3593 / Krueger: Institutes a rechargeable battery producer and retailer sponsored take back program at no costs to consumers.
Two Republicans voted No on the bill: Betty Little and John Flanagan. - S6141B / Squadron: Requires Auto Dealerships to post a Gallons Per Mile Fuel Savings Guide within the dealership that presents information developed by the DEC.
26 Republicans voted No on the bill: Alesi, Bonacic, DeFrancisco, Farley, Flanagan, Fuschillo, Golden, Griffo, Hannon, Owen Johnson, Larkin, Leibell, Libous, Little, Marcellino, Maziarz, McDonald, Nozzolio, Ranzenhofer, Robach, Saland, Seward, Skelos, Volker, Winner, and Young. - S6047A / Thompson: Establishes a comprehensive State-wide electronic equipment reuse and recycling program.
- S4983C / Foley: Limits pesticide exposures for school and daycare aged children by prohibiting certain outdoor, non-essential applications on playgrounds, turf, and athletic or playing fields.
22 Republicans voted No on the bill: Bonacic, DeFrancisco, Farley, Golden, Griffo, Hannon, Owen Johnson, Lanza, Larkin, Leibell, Libous, Little, Marcellino, Maziarz, Nozzolio, Ranzenhofer, Saland, Seward, Skelos, Volker, Winner, and Young. - S3296-G / Thompson: Prohibits the manufacture, distribution and sale of child care products such as pacifiers, bottles and sippy cups that contain Bisphenol.
- S5119 / Stewart-Cousins: Reduces the State’s waste by prohibiting the purchase and use of non-recyclable paper/mailing products.
21 Republicans voted No on the bill: Alesi, Bonacic, DeFrancisco, Farley, Flanagan, Golden, Griffo, Owen Johnson, Larkin, Libous, Little, Maziarz, McDonald, Nozzolio, Ranzenhofer, Saland, Seward, Skelos, Volker, Winner and Young.
Watch a video of the Democrats' press conference on the passage of this legislation package:
New York Senate Dems Hits Republicans on Taxes and Budget
By Mike Connery on 04/16/2010 @ 05:26 PM
Yesterday was tax day, and once again hard-working New Yorkers sent too much of their tax dollars to Albany.
While New Yorkers continue to pay more than their fair share, Republicans are sitting on the sidelines, running from decades-long record of taxing, spending and borrowing away the financial stability of our state. To add insult to injury, they are refusing to participate constructively in the current budget process, and trying to blame Democrats for their own mess.
New York Senate Dems are determined to hold Republicans accountable for these actions.
Today we launched a series of robocalls into the districts of 14 Republicans who are ducking and dodging their record on taxes while the people of New York foot the bill. Calls were placed into the districts of Dean Skelos, Steve Saland, Hugh Farley, Roy McDonald, Owen Johnson, Kemp Hannon, John DeFrancisco, Tom Libous, Joe Robach, Michael Ranzenhofer, Ken LaValle, James Alesi, Frank Padavan and Joe Griffo.
Voters in each of those districts received a call informing them of their Senator's record on the budget and taxes, and asking them to call and ask their Senator to work with Democrats to resolve our state's budget crisis.
You can listen to a few of those calls below:
Dean Skelos
Kemp Hannon
Owen Johnson
Senate Republicans bear the brunt of responsibility for landing us in our current fiscal straits. They owe it to their constituents, and to all New Yorkers, to engage in good faith negotiations to help fix their mess.
We're not going to let them run from their record any longer.
Ed Note - We're still in beta and working out the hiccups, and this post was accidentally deleted from our system on Monday April 19th. A new copy was uploaded on Tuesday April 20.
