Campaign Roundup: Hear Women Roar
By Mike Connery on 11/01/2010 @ 04:50 PM
DAILY CAMPAIGN ROUNDUP … Our daily roundup of campaign news.- On Tuesday, Hear Women Roar - Errol Louis of the Daily News sees the potential for women voters to play a pivotal role in NY's elections.
- Growing Signs that Latinos Will Jam Polls for Midterms - Louis's DN colleague Albor Ruiz sees a similar situation happening with Latino voters.
- Calling for Change in the 44th - YNN profiles the stark contrast between Democratic candidate Susan Savage and long time Albany incumbent Hugh Farley.
- 23 Reasons Frank Padavan is Bad for Women - Tony Avella has been on the stump all week, hammering Padavan for his atrocious record on women's issues. NY1 has the video.
- Journal News Endorses Oppenheimer - The Journal News endorsed the reelection of Senator Suzi Oppenheimer over the weekend.
- Fair Campaign Group Sides with Oppenheimer - Westchester County Fair Campaign Practices Committee ruled against Republican Bob Cohen, saying that his mailers were inaccurate and misleading.
- Locals Seek Senate, Hoping Anger Will Help Them - The Post Star profiles the campaigns of challengers Joanne Yepsen and Susan Savage.
- Cuomo Endorses Susan Savage - Andrew Cuomo has endorsed another Democratic Senate challenger.
Campaign Roundup: A Few Good Candidates
By Mike Connery on 10/29/2010 @ 04:50 PM
DAILY CAMPAIGN ROUNDUP … Our roundup of campaign news.
- Senate Dems to GOP: Bull - New York Senate Dems are on the air with a new ad hitting Republicans for their atrocious 4 decade history in the Senate.
- Bill Samuels: Why Electing More Women Will Help Reform Albany - In a year when Democrats are running 12 women candidates, Bill Samuels writes in the Huffington Post about the crucial role of women in delivering on reform.
- A Few Good Candidates - The New York Times comes out strong for Democratic candidates Tony Avella, Mike Kaplowitz and Didi Barrett.
- Saland Hit With Ethics Complaint After Pressuring Firefighters - Steve Saland gets caught muscling local firefighters into supporting his reelection by threatening their grants.
- Schumer Endorses Carlucci, Kaplowitz - US Senator Chuck Schumer makes his first state senate endorsements.
- A Fresh Face for Albany - It's been a long time since the Saratogian endorsed a Democrat for State Senate, but today Joanne Yepsen breaks the streak.
- State Dems: Zeldin Too Extreme for the Senate - The NY Democratic Party is out with a new web video hitting Lee Zeldin for his extremist views and supporters.
- When Principle Matters - The NY Post endorsed the reelection of Senator Craig Johnson today.
- Cuomo Endorses Savage - Andrew Cuomo has endorsed Susan Savage in her race against Hugh Farley.
- LoHud Endorses David Carlucci - The Journal News endorsed David Carlucci today.
- Pretty Angry in Pink - Hugh Farley has offended just about everybody during this final week of the campaign - from the mentally handicapped to LGBT New Yorkers to environmentalists. Susan Savage is calling for an apology.
- Albany Times Union Endorses Savage, Breslin - Two Dem endorsements in today's Albany Times Union.
- Outsiders Juice Up Ads for Quinn, Kennedy - TV ads by outside groups, including Fight Back NY, are flooding the airwaves in SD-58. This is a big race for marriage equality advocates.
- If You Like Carl Paladino, You'll Love Greg Ball - NARAL sends mailers into state senate districts on behalf of Democratic candidates.
Meet the Women Ready to Reform Albany
By Mike Connery on 10/18/2010 @ 10:05 AM
Republicans had 44 years to turn New York around. They failed and New York is the worse for it. Meet 12 women candidates who are ready to bring real change and relief to New York.We can't change Albany until we change the people that we send to Albany.
Campaign Roundup: Sampson - GOP Candidates Must Disavow Paladino
By Mike Connery on 10/08/2010 @ 04:45 PM
DAILY CAMPAIGN ROUNDUP … Our Daily Roundup of Campaign News- Sampson to Dem Candidate's: Hit 'Em On Carl - A letter sent today by the Democratic Majority Conference Leader John Sampson urges all Democratic State Senate candidates to call on their opponents to disavow Carl Paladino.
- Lawmakers Asking Farley to Distance Himself from Paladino - Susan Savage is already pressing her opponent to disavow Paladino, but Farley has so far dodged the question.
- Farley, Savage Campaign Trade Allegations - Susan Savage comes out on top in a story about barbs traded between her campaign and that of Senator Hugh Farley. Farley was unable to refute claims that he'd taken vacation on the taxpayer's dime, while Savage pointed out allegations against her were long ago dismissed.
- Pro-Gay Marriage Group Names First Target - Fight Back NY PAC has set their sites on getting rid of Frank Padavan in Queens.
Campaign Roundup: Slumlord Cohen Caught Doctoring Video
By Mike Connery on 10/05/2010 @ 04:45 PM
DAILY CAMPAIGN ROUNDUP … Our daily campaign roundup of campaign news.- Oppenheimer Sticks it to Slumlord Bob Cohen - Celeste Katz reports that Suzi Oppenheimer's campaign is up on the air with an ad pointing out that Bob Cohen's real estate businesses have been hit with numerous violations, including dangerous conditions and turning a blind eye to drug dealing on the premises.
- Cohen Caught Selectively Editing Oppenheimer Video - Celeste Katz at Daily Politics also points out that the Bob Cohen campaign has been caught selectively editing video footage of Oppenheimer for dishonest political purposes.
- 5 Candidates Endorsed by Emily's List - Emily's List released endorsements for 5 Senate Democratic Candidates today: Susan Savage, Mary Wilmot, Didi Barrett, Joanne Yepsen and Pam Mackesey.
- Duffy Endorses Mary Wilmot for Senate - Rochester Mayor and Democratic Lieutenant Governor candidate Robert Duffy endorsed Mary Wilmot for state senate.
- Carlucci Supporters Come Out in Rain and Cold - in a demonstration of strong support and organizing, supporters of David Carlucci turned out in full force - despite rain and cold - for a speech about the fiscal irresponsibility of Carlucci's opponent.
- A Dozen Tax Liens in Three Years for Jack Martins - City Hall News discovers that Jack Martins' businesses have a history of not paying their taxes on time.
- SD-3 Race Goes National - 16% and Rising notes that radical Republican Senator Jim DeMint is raising money for Lee Zeldin.
- Close Race in Senate District - The Times Union reports that Joanne Yepsen is giving Roy McDonald a run for his money in SD-43. On why she's running, Yepsen says: "Right now, nothing is getting done in this district," she said. "I fully believe that I can do a better job."
- NYPRIG: State Dems Winning Legislative Cash Contest - At the Daily News, NYPIRG confirms that Dems have a cash-on-hand advantage over Republicans in the race to control the legislature.
- Farley Gets Nasty - Sen. Hugh Farley goes negative - and gets caught lying - as Susan Savage presents a real challenge to his reelection.
- Domagalski Withdraws from 59th State Senate District Race - Citing fear of a Democratic victory by Cindy Appleton, Jim Domagalski has withdrawn from the 59th State Senate District race.
- New York's Year of Democratic Women - 16% and Rising reminds us that there are an unprecedented amount of women candidates on the Democratic Senate ticket this year.
- Environmental Advocates Release Scorecard, Gives George Winner "Oil Slick" Award - A hearty congratulations for Senator George Winner, for his "oil slick" award - granted for his service to the energy industry in opposing a moratorium on hydrofracking.
Campaign Roundup: Senate Dems Push Ahead on Fundraising
By Mike Connery on 10/04/2010 @ 04:45 PM
DAILY CAMPAIGN ROUNDUP - Our daily roundup of campaign news.- Democrats Make Fundraising Comeback - Liz Benjamin reports that the Senate Dems have made a "fundraising comeback," outraising the GOP 3 - 1 in the latest filing.
- Susan Savage: We Need To Do Things Differently - Susan Savage's campaign released a new web video today, highlighting her work reaching out across the aisle to move legislation and lower taxes for her constituents. Watch the video here.
- Dave Valesky Leads Andrew Russo by 10 Points in 49th Syracuse.com reports on the latest Siena poll, which shows incumbent Dave Valesky up 10 points on Republican challenger Andrew Russo.
- Tight Races for Two Open Senate Seats, Says Siena - A new poll from Siena is out today, showing tight races for open seats vacated by Vincent Liebell and William Stachowski
- Fight Back New York's Next Target - Political Action Committee Fight Back New York has its sites set on taking out Frank Padavan in the general election.
- Stewart-Cousins Leads McLaughlin in Campaign Funds - LoHud reports that incumbent Andrea Stewart-Cousins has 6 times more cash-on-hand than her opponent, Liam McLaughlin.
- Avella Picks Up UFT Endorsement - The United Federation of Teachers endorsed Tony Avella today at Queens Borough Hall.
New Campaign Video from Susan Savage
By Mike Connery on 10/04/2010 @ 10:11 AM
Susan Savage'scampaign released a new video today talking about her working bridging the partisan divide in Schenectady county and delivering tax cuts to her constituents.Campaign Roundup: Tea Party Declares War in SD-59
By Mike Connery on 09/30/2010 @ 04:45 PM
DAILY CAMPAIGN ROUNDUP … Our daily roundup of campaign news.- SD-59: Tea Party Coalition Declares War on Republican Nominee - in SD-59, where Dale Volker's retirement is leaving an open seat, Tea Partiers have declared war on the GOP nominee, opening up a 4 way contest that could help Cindy Appleton, the only Democrat on the ballot.
- Mike Kaplowitz is Out to Balance New York's Checkbook - The Putnam County Courier takes a look at the campaign of Mike Kaplowitz (subscription required).
- The 40th Senate District Makes a List - Capitol Confidential takes note that Mike Kaplowitz's campaign made the DLCC's list of priority state legislative races.
- "Tax Hike Mike" and "The Real Greg Ball" Take Aim for Each November - The Capitol reports on the contest to replace Vincent Leibell in SD-40, in this profile of both the Democratic and Republican campaigns.
- An Open Letter to Senator McDonald - Writing in The Saratogan, Democratic challenger Joanne Yepsen calls on her opponent to denounce Carl Paladino.
- College Offers Venue for 44th District Debate - Susan Savage is challenging Republican incumbent Hugh Farley to several public debates in the district. Fulton-Montgomery Community College is ready to host, the question is will Farley agree to attend?
- Who is Jennifer Maertz? Suffolk Times profiles Jennifer Maertz, the candidate challenging Ken LaValle in SD-1.
Campaign Roundup: Jack Martins' No Good Very Bad Day
By Mike Connery on 09/23/2010 @ 02:45 PM
TODAY'S CAMPAIGN ROUND-UP....Today's installment of campaign-related news. Jack Martins' won't pay his rent and gets thrown off the Tax Revolt line; The Daily News calls on Paladino to return his rents from state agencies; The SRCC goes negative SD-44; and Mary Wilmot speaks out on pensions.
- Jack Martins Hasn't Paid Rent on Campaign HQ: Newsday reports that Craig Johnson opponent Jack Martins has not paid any rent on his campaign headquarters, nor has he declared it as an in-kind contribution - a potential violation of campaign finance rules. What's more, Martins landlord was the recipient of a taxpayer-funded payout last year.
- Martins Ruled Off Tax Revolt Line: Adding to Jack Martins' no good very bad day, the candidate was ruled ineligible for the 3rd Party Tax Revolt ballot line after a judge ruled that he failed to collect the 3,000 minimum valid signatures.
- Negative in the 44th: In the 44th District, where Democrat Susan Savage is challenging Albany in incumbent Hugh Farley, a negative campaign ad by the SRCC fails to hold up under close scrutiny. A fact check provided by the Savage campaign shoots any number of holes in the SRCC hit piece.
- Wilmot: Defined Pension Benefits Unsustainable: Mary Wilmot came out against the state's system of defined pension benefits today, saying "We are promising benefits we can’t afford and workers are forced to stay on too long to collect on that promise."
- Tea Party-Backed Paladino Can Cut Costs NOW by Trimming $5.2M He's Collecting from Taxpayers: The Daily News hits on an inspired idea - Tea Partier Carl Paladino should put his money where his mouth is on state spending - literally - by cutting back on rents he collects from 17 state agencies. We wonder if Paladino buddy Dean Skelos would agree?
Campaign Roundup: Skelos Sticks with Paladino
By Mike Connery on 09/20/2010 @ 02:45 PM
TODAY'S CAMPAIGN ROUND-UP....Today's installment of campaign-related news. Skelos continues to support Paladino; Cuomo stands up for the Democratic-controlled Senate; and David Patterson vetoes rent relief for HIV/AIDS patients.
- Sticks, Stones and Votes: At The Albany Times Union, Jimmy Vielkind notes that Carl Paladino's candidacy continues to pose problems for Republicans down ballot. That doesn't seem to bother Dean Skelos, though. The Senate Minority Leader continues to support the controversial Paladino.
- Cuomo Rolls Out Republican Co-Chair, but Not Republican Endorsements: While most Republicans are running from their own candidate, David Freedlander at PolitickerNY reports that Andrew Cuomo has endorsed a continued Democratic Majority in the state senate.
- Morally Reprehensible and Fiscally Irresponsible: The Daily News, Capitol Tonight, and the New York Times all report on David Paterson's veto of legislation that would have protected NYC renters with HIV/AIDS. Senate Democrats slammed the veto as both morally reprehensible and fiscally irresponsible, and called on the Senate Republican Minority to stand up for these most vulnerable of New York's citizens and override the governor's veto.
- AFL-CIO Endorses Andrea Stewart-Cousins: The AFL-CIO of New York State has endorsed the reelection of Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins, citing her history of fighting for New York's working families.
- How About a Local Debate? Susan Savage, the Democratic candidate in the 44th Senate District, has challenged her opponent, Hugh Farley, to seven public debates. Albany incumbent Farley has rejected Savage's invitation.
Susan Savage: Miracle in Schenectady
By Mike Connery on 09/16/2010 @ 05:00 PM
In the first TV ad of her campaign, Susan Savage highlights her work in the county legislature and her success in revitalizing the economy in Schenectady.
Campaign Roundup: Skelos Stock Portfolio a $2B Conflict of Interest
By Mike Connery on 09/14/2010 @ 02:45 PM
DAILY CAMPAIGN ROUNDUP . . . Our daily roundup of campaign related news and events. The Daily News uncovers a $2 billion conflict of interest in Dean Skelos' stock portfolio. Susan Savage gives Schenectady residents a tax cut. And Mike Kaplowitz sits down with The Albany Project.
- Dean Skelos has stake in companies that do business with state - The Daily News uncovered a $2 billion conflict of interest in the stock portfolio of Republican Minority Leader Dean Skelos.
- Schenectady County Promises a Tax Trim - Thanks to the sound fiscal management of Susan Savage, Schenectady voters can expect a tax reduction for the fourth time in the last six years. According to Savage, "we've had a lot of economic stresses, but instead of just throwing our hands up, we've been able to find real solutions."
- Meet Mike Kaplowitz - The Albany Project sits down with Democratic candidate Mike Kaplowitz for a talk about rebuilding the Tappan Zee Bridge, pension reform, ethics reform, and much more.
Daily Campaign Roundup: More Endorsements For Democratic Candidates
By Mike Connery on 08/18/2010 @ 02:43 PM
TODAY'S CAMPAIGN ROUND-UP.... Today's installment of campaign-related news. Mike Gianaris endorsed by United Federation of Teachers and Teamsters. Mike DiSanto gains the support of Planned Parenthood of New York City. Susan Savage slams her opponent for misusing state funds -- to complain about wasteful state spending. SRCC pours money into defeating one of its own.
- Mike Gianaris scores major endorsements from United Federation of Teachers and Teamsters - Mike Gianaris received big endorsements from The United Federation of Teachers (UFT) and the international Brotherhood of Teamsters Joint Council 16. The UFT has a membership of approximately 200,000 education professionals. Joint Council 16 encompasses 30 Teamster local unions in New York City and has about 120,000 members. “I am honored to have the support of the working men and women represented by these organizations,” said Gianaris in a statement. “I look forward to continuing my advocacy for working people in the State Senate, as we strive to create more jobs, improve our schools and reform state government.”
- Mike Disanto endorsed by Planned Parenthood of NYC - Mike DiSanto, running against Albany politician Martin Golden in SD-22, received the endorsement of the Planned Parenthood of New York City. “I thank Planned Parenthood for entrusting me with the task of defending women's reproductive rights. For more than 90 years, Planned Parenthood of New York City has been a beacon of hope for women, and today, I am committed to the next generation of women,” DiSanto said. “The State that started the Women's Rights Movement has failed to provide women with adequate protections and advance women's rights into the 21st century. My opponent is wrong on women's rights, just as he is wrong on so many issues. Reform and progress on public policy is clearly absent from my opponent's agenda.”
- Susan Savage slams her opponent for wasting state funds to complain about wasteful state spending - Susan Savage criticized a mailer that her opponent, 34-year Albany politician Hugh Farley, sent using state funds. The mailer ironically talks about how the state is in money trouble. "This is an outrageous example of what’s wrong with Albany and why voters should fire a 34 year politician who is out of touch, out of ideas and electorally, out of time,” said Savage campaign strategist Doug Forand. “In his letter, Mr. Farley states ‘During difficult economic times, families and businesses tighten their belts and make needed and sensible changes to their spending habits. Government should do the same.’ We couldn’t agree more, and the first place to start would be with his self-promoting, taxpayer-funded mailings.”
Savage says he was using taxpayer dollars on the last possible day he can use his Senate funds before the Sept. 14 Conservative primary between a write-in (Savage) and himself. - SRCC decides to dump money into messy internal battle -The GOP continues to eat its own. The City Hall News reports that the SRCC is pouring money into the SD-40 primary, where Republican Assembly Member Greg Ball is taking on party favorite Mary Beth Murphy. The SRCC spent $55,922 in shared expenditures over the past month on top of $32,608 already spent. Murphy and Ball are involved in a bloody and divisive primary fight. Whoever comes out of the fight will have to face Mike Kaplowitz, who has secured the Democratic nomination and been running a strong campaign in the district for months now.
Susan Savage Outlines Vision For Economic Resurgence In New Campaign Video
By Mike Connery on 08/12/2010 @ 11:18 AM
Susan Savage is receiving great coverage on her newly released campaign video, where she outlined a positive vision to lower taxes, create jobs, and foster economic development in the 44th Senatorial District
"The most important thing to people who live in upstate New York in the 44th District is jobs. Jobs mean opportunities and for too long jobs have left the area. In Schenectady County, I’m proud of the fact we have been able to create thousands of jobs… Jobs, economic development, and taxes – those are the issues we need our State Senate and state government to focus on," Savage said in the video.
As Schenectady County Chairwoman, Savage created over 3,000 jobs and attracted $400 million in private investment capital to the area. YNN ran a piece this week detailing titled "More downtown growth as Schenectady transformation continues," which detailed this incredible transformation that Savage spearheaded.
In her new video, Savage speaks of her long-time ties to, and passion for, upstate New York. Check out the video below and share it with your friends on Facebook and Twitter.
Campaign Roundup: Susan Savage Oversees Resurgence In Schenectady
By Mike Connery on 08/10/2010 @ 04:45 PM
TODAY'S CAMPAIGN ROUND-UP.... Today's installment of campaign-related news. Democratic Candidate Susan Savage oversees downtown transformation in Schenectady. Democratic Candidate Tony Avella receives major endorsement and releases new campaign video. Quick resolution seen in Aqueduct deal, much to the delight of Democratic Candidate Joanne Yepsen.
- Democratic Candidate Susan Savage oversees transformation in Schenectady - YNN ran a piece today titled "More downtown growth as Schenectady transformation continues". Schenectady has seen over $400 million in private investment over the past few years, due in large part to the efforts of Democratic Candidate and Schenectady County Chairwoman Susan Savage. As Savage put it: "It has the wow factor. What it is is a community that did not look great six years ago. The buildings were literally falling apart in the streets. Now they look like this."
- Democratic Candidate Tony Avella receives major endorsement, releases campaign video - Tony Avella was endorsed by The Planned Parenthood of New York City earlier today. The rights group predicts there will be heavy independent expenditure involvement on behalf of the Queens Democrat. “Whatever it takes,” said Dana Czuczka, the group’s associate vice president of government affairs, explaining what Planned Parenthood is prepared to do on Avella’s behalf. “This is really one of our priorities.” Avella is running against 38-year Albany insider Frank Padavan, who voted against the Women's Health and Wellness bill that ensured contraceptives would be covered by insurance plans, and that established minimum coverage requirements for mammograms in helping to detect breast cancer.” “We really believe for too long this pro-choice district has been misrepresented, and we’re excited to have someone like Tony Avella who is willing to stand up for the women of Queens,” Czuczka said.
- Quick resolution seen for Aqueduct deal - Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce President Todd Shimkus praised Senate racing committee chairman Eric Adams for seeking a quick resolution of the Aqueduct gaming selection. Sen. Adams and two downstate senators heard a formal presentation from Genting New York LLC in Manhattan Monday.
Democratic Candidate and Saratoga Springs Supervisor Joanne Yepsen hosted a roundtable with Sen. Adams last week to highlight the racing industry's importance to local businesses. “When the deal is sealed, hopefully later this week, not only will the racing industry benefit drastically, but the taxpayers of New York state will be the winners,” she said. “I applaud Sen. Adams for making the final step of the process fully transparent. Good government will produce good results.”
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: League of Conservation Voters Endorses Numerous Democrats
By Mike Connery on 08/02/2010 @ 03:23 PM
TODAY'S CAMPAIGN ROUND-UP.... Today's installment of campaign-related news. The NYLCV endorses 14 Democratic incumbents and five Democratic challengers. New York in contention for Race To The Top Funding because of leadership of Sen. Sampson and Senate Democrats. Democratic Candidate Tony Avella speaks of tax caps and a more transparent Senate in an interview with The Albany Project. Democratic Candidate Regina Calcaterra bringing a "different style" in her campaign out on Long Island.
- New York League of Conservation Voters endorses a slew of Democrats - The NYLCV, a non-partisan, policy making and political action organization that works to make environmental protection a top priority, announced their support of numerous Democratic Senators and candidates this morning. They endorsed 14 incumbent Democrats and 5 challengers - Dave Mejias, Susan Savage, Joanne Yepsen, Kathleen Joy, and Mary Wilmot. NYLCV President Marcia Bystryn had this to say specifically about Savage: “Susan Savage is exactly the kind of 21st century leader that New York needs. Susan knows that a healthy environment, green jobs and clean energy are not luxuries for the good times – they are the ways forward to a stronger, more economically vibrant New York.”
- If New York wins $700 million in Race To The Top funding, Senate Democrats are to thank - Joe Williams, Executive Director of Democrats for Education Reform, wrote an op-ed in The New York Daily News today that argued the leadership of Senate Majority Leader John Sampson and his fellow Democratic senators are responsible for New York still being in the race for federal dollars. Going forward, Williams argued, "the commitment the Democrats demonstrated for reform needs to be matched by elected officials, school districts and unions across the state."
- Democratic Candidate Tony Avella interviewed by The Albany Project - Tony Avella, running against 38-year Republican incumbent Frank Padavan, was interviewed by The Albany Project. Readers were free to send in questions in advance to ask the former City Councilman. When it came to taxes, Avella declared that he believes that "it is essential to place limits on the ever increasing property taxes and address increases from annual property tax assessments." On the way the Senate operates, Avella said that "clearly, the Senate must have greater transparency, allow members greater opportunities for input and have much stronger ethics rules."
- Newsday: Regina Calcaterra brings "different style" in State Senate Race - Dan Janison, of Newsday, profiled the race between Regina Calcaterra and 34-year Republican incumbent Ken LaValle. He mentioned that Calcaterra is" hailed by her supporters as a sharp, energetic fighter" and mentioned her work representing the state's pension system in the high-profile lawsuit against WorldCom.
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: Democrats' Fundraising and Petitioning Numbers Continue To Impress
By Mike Connery on 07/16/2010 @ 03:19 PM
TODAY'S CAMPAIGN ROUND-UP.... Today's installment of campaign-related news. Newsday profiles Democratic confidence and strength. Joanne Yepsen outraises her opponent by three-to-one margin. Didi Barrett raises over $160,000, collects over 3,700 signatures. Sens. David Valesky, Darrel Aubertine and William Stachowski outraise opponents, post impressive fundraising numbers.
- Newsday: On and off L.I., state Senate Dems tout petition and fund totals - Dan Janison, of Newsday, wrote a piece on how Senate Democrats are "blowing our political horns" with our impressive fundraising and petition totals. He specifically mentioned the strength of two Long Island campaigns: Sen. Brian Foley's campaign, which has over $240,000 cash on hand and who filed 4,073 Democratic signatures with the Suffolk County Board of Elections -four times the amount required to qualify for the ballot; and Regina Calcaterra, who raised over $260,000 since announcing her candidacy this year and now has nearly $180,000 in cash on hand to help her unseat 34-year Republican incumbent Ken LaValle. He also mentioned the fundraising prowess of Susan Savage. Savage raised $75,000 over the past six months - almost doubling the haul of her opponent, 34-year Republican incumbent Hugh Farley.
- Democratic Candidate Joanne Yepsen outraises her opponent by more than three to one margin - Joanne Yepsen announced 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. "We raised money the old fashioned way," said Yepsen. "We have connected with our supporters on a grassroots level, collecting many small checks -- they add up quickly."
- Democratic Candidate Didi Barrett raises over $160,000, gathers over 3,700 signatures - Didi Barrett reported yesterday that she raised over $160,000 since declaring her candidacy just three months ago. The number far surpasses the amount of cash her opponent, a 30-year Albany insider, had on hand when Barrett entered the race. The campaign also collected 3,700 signatures -- almost four times the required amount to get on the ballot. Signatures were collected from every town in the district, evidence of the incredibly large and diverse group of supporters of Barrett’s campaign.“We’re very happy,” said Marian Rivman, Barrett’s communications director. “There’s been a wonderful response to Didi, and the numbers have exceeded our expectations—especially given that she’s a first time candidate.”
- Sen. David Valesky posts impressive fundraising totals - While his Republican challengers are mired in a costly primary battle, Sen. Valesky has continued to hum along. Valesky raised $200,000 over the past six months, and has $465,580 in his campaign coffers.
- Sen. Darrel Aubertine outraises his opponent - Sen. Aubertine outpaced his Republican challenger's fundraising total by about $24,000 during the first six months of the year. Sen. Aubertine raised over $87,000 in the period, and now has over $159,000 in cash on hand - or about $110,000 more than his opponent.
- Sen. William Stachowski has over $287,000 in cash on hand, gathers over 3,000 signatures - Sen. Stachowski announced that he now has over $287,000 in cash on hand, after raising nearly $142,000 over the past six months. He also submitted 3,447 signatures for his ballot peition, well over the required amount to gain ballot access. "Voters in my district are coming to appreciate the importance of qualified, independent representation," he said.
