Senate Republicans Already Breaking Their Promise
By Josh Cherwin on 03/01/2011 @ 01:50 PM
New Yorkers want to see real change in Albany; but it's only a few months into the new year and we're seeing the same broken promises from Senate Republicans.
Prior to the 2010 elections, every Republican candidate for State Senate made a promise to work with Democrats to clean up Albany. Less than two months into the start of the new legislative session, those same Republicans are breaking their promise, abandoning the reforms Albany needs and the public expects. Today former Mayor Ed Koch called on Albany legislators to act on their promise and pass a bill for independent redistricting. Members of the NY State Senate Democratic Conference joined him in this effort. The Albany Times Union was there to cover the story. Here's an excerpt from the Capital Confidential blog "Koch: Skelos is reneging on redistricting promise"
...Koch said he had just met with Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos, R-Long Island, who said he would not back a bill currently wending its way through the Senate because he believes changes to the redistricting process — currently handled by representatives of both legislative houses, and resulting in districts often derided as gerrymandered — require amendments to the state’s constitution.
“We now know where stand, which ain’t too good,” Koch said. “The reason he gives is it’s not constitutional to do this…this is, of course, not acceptable to us. We believe it is simply an effort to derail the operation.”
At its most rapid, a constitutional amendment could not be in place until 2013 — after lines are drawn for the five election cycles starting with 2012.
The former mayor, now 86, traveled the state during the last election cycle to rally support for candidates who agreed to sign on to independent redistricting and other reform measures. Skelos and all members of the Republican conference, publicly, signed onto his pledge.
Gov. Andrew Cuomo last month submitted a bill to the legislature that would take redistricting out of the hands of legislative leaders, and vowed to veto any lines drawn under the current system.
Cuomo’s bill was introduced in the Assembly by Speaker Sheldon Silver, D-Manhattan. The sponsor of a similar measure, Assemblyman Hakeem Jeffries, said Silver has “at least expressed an interest in changing the procedure…he’s said he will not stand in the way of reform.”
He expressed that commitment before Cuomo’s State of the State PowerPoint presentation. Koch had once labeled Silver the biggest enemy of reform, but said this when asked: “He’s come a long way. He may be the leader of reform.”
Skelos has blocked Democrats trying to co-sponsor Cuomo’s measure in the Senate. Senate Democrats attacked the Republicans who bounced them from the majority last year as hypocrites. There are more Democrats than Republicans in New York, and Democrats charged that Republicans are clinging to their control of the redistricting to draw lines that will allow them to continue in the majority.
Senate Minority Leader John Sampson said Skelos’ reversal was the “height of hypocrisy” and showed “selective amnesia.” Sen. Mike Gianaris, D-Queens and the sponsor of a bill similar to Cuomo’s, said the Republicans’ new position was “shameful” and a “disgrace.”
“Not since the first President Bush told us to read his lips have we seen a more dramatic turnaround on a campaign promise,” Gianaris said.
Koch’s group, New York Uprising, committed to funding 100,000 robocalls and patch-through calls targeting those standing in the way of the bill. A release on that is after the jump.
Below is a clip of Senator Mike Gianaris at the Koch Press Conference on Independent Redistricting 3/1/2011
Freshman Senators Promote Albany Reforms
By Mike Connery on 01/11/2011 @ 10:50 AM
Four of our freshman Senators, including new DSCC Chair Mike Gianaris, appeared last week on State of Politics with Liz Benjamin. Check out the video as they discuss positive changes in the Democratic conference and promote much-needed Albany reforms.Leader Sampson Congratulates Our Winners, But It's Not Over Yet
By Mike Connery on 11/03/2010 @ 04:50 PM
Polls are closed, but the State Senate is still at stake.
We picked up a few big wins, but at least three races are too close to call.
We'll post updates as they come in. Below find Majority Conference Leader Sampson's statements on the victories of Democrats David Carlucci, Tony Avella and Tim Kennedy.
Your New Senators:
“Senator-Elect Tony Avella has a long record of reform and political independence – the perfect antidote to 38 years of status quo Albany dysfunction. Senator-Elect Avella ran a tireless campaign. He went door-to-door in Queens to make his case and I am particularly proud he made women’s rights and healthcare a centerpiece of his campaign. I look forward to working with Senator-Elect Avella to regain New York’s trust in government, and to make sure the Senate continues to advocate for those most in need.”
"I want to congratulate Senator-Elect Carlucci for running a shoe-leather, door-to-door campaign, and welcome him to our Conference. Rockland and Orange County residents deserve a reformer, a non-partisan Senator in the tradition of Tom Morahan. David Carlucci will make those who trusted him with their vote proud. He comes to Albany with great promise, and working together, we will continue to reform Albany and work with our next Governor to renew our economy and lower taxes."
"Tim Kennedy is the reformer Albany needs. For more than a year, he has run against the status quo, and it’s that kind of attitude that will change Albany. We need jobs, and I will do everything I can to make sure Senator-Elect Kennedy is successful in renewing and revitalizing Western New York’s regional economy."
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.
Greg Ball: "I Am The Malcolm X"
By Mike Connery on 10/28/2010 @ 04:34 PM
DAILY CAMPAIGN ROUNDUP … Our daily roundup of campaign news.- Fairness Panel Rules Ball Campaign Mailer Mostly Misleading - Once again the Fair Campaign Practices Committee has ruled against Greg Ball for lying in his campaign literature.
- I Am The Malcolm X - Greg Ball, the "Carl Paladino" of the Hudson Valley, can now boast a new name. Mike Kaplowitz's tracker caught the controversial assemblyman comparing himself to Malcolm X.
- Gillibrand for Kaplowitz - Senator Gillibrand endorses Mike Kaplowitz in his race against Greg Ball.
- Tony Avella Slams Frank Padavan on Women's Issues - Frank Padavan has been a disaster for women in Queens, and Tony Avella is bringing that issue to the fore of his campaign.
- Patty Ritchie Ignores AARP - In what has become standard procedure, Patty Ritchie is again ducking constituents - this time seniors.
- Candidates, Parties Pour $2million into 49th - The race between Dave Valesky and Andrew Russo is getting expensive.
- McDonald Takes Cash from Downstate Bosses He Rails Against - Joanne Yepsen's campaign is pointing out that Senator Roy McDonald has taken hundreds of thousands of dollars in donations from downstate bosses.
- An Interview with Jeff Klein - Our Deputy Majority Leader and DSCC Chair sits down for an interview with one of his local papers.
- Carlucci Pushes Strong Ethics Reform - In a new Op-Ed, David Carlucci pushes for strong ethics reform and property tax caps.
Frank Padavan Lied About His Role in the State Senate Coup
By Mike Connery on 10/22/2010 @ 04:45 PM
No One Cares Less Than Frank Padavan
By Mike Connery on 10/14/2010 @ 12:05 PM
Women for Tony Avella launched a new video today, highlighting Frank Padavan's atrocious record on women's issues and featuring women from the district calling for the election of Tony Avella.Hitting a similar theme today, Planned Parenthood takes political protection to a new level. The group is distributing condoms at bars in the 11th Senate District warning voters to protect themselves from incumbent Frank Padavan.
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.
Avella: I’m Running to Take on the MTA
By Mike Connery on 09/13/2010 @ 04:00 PM
The MTA is holding public hearings this evening to discuss another round of fare hikes and proposed route cuts. Although the MTA has already implemented service cuts and layoffs, the authority says the hikes are necessary to close its budget gap, but hard working New Yorkers are feeling the burden of higher fares and decreased service in their daily lives.
Gene Russianoff of the Straphangers Campaign advocates participation in these hearings, saying “you can’t win it if you’re not in it.” Tony Avella, for one, is stepping forward to take on the MTA to fight for the rights of commuters and New Yorkers. Watch Avella’s statement on the MTA and why he’s running for state senate:
Tax Man Padavan Misleads Voters On His Record
By Mike Connery on 08/26/2010 @ 04:24 PM
Tony Avella has his opponent, Albany politician Frank Padavan, running scared and misleading voters on his 38-year record as a tax, borrow and spend Republican.
In a recent interview with Yournabe.com, Padavan said he is proud to be running on his record and that "I don’t know of any senator [that] can point to that many accomplishments in their tenure."
What exactly is Padavan's record? Here are some highlights of Padavan's "accomplishments" that span the over-three decades he helped his Republican Majority cohorts turn Albany into a den of rampant irresponsibility and excess:
- Padavan raised taxes hundreds of times, costing hardworking New Yorkers billions of dollars. Padavan has voted to increase personal income taxes, business taxes, professional taxes, sales taxes, user fees, hotel taxes and vehicle registration taxes -- among many others
- Along with convicted felon Joe Bruno and the Republican Majority, Padavan voted to nearly double the size of the state budget -- from $62 billion to $121 billion -- in just 12 years, between 1996 and 2008
- Padavan and his Republican cohorts also saddled New Yorkers with a massive debt load -- increasing it from $31 billion to $54 billion between 1997 and 2008
- Padavan has refused to clean up the ethical mess in Albany and make the Senate more transparent, opting instead for business as usual. He has voted against bills that included numerous campaign finance reforms and good government practices
- Padavan opposed an amendment to the 2006-2007 budget which would have increased school aid to NYC schools by $1.25 billion
With these kinds of "accomplishments," is it any wonder that Padavan has decided to mislead voters on his record?
Tony Avella, on the other hand, has an actual record to be proud of. As a city councilman, he opposed every property tax increase during his tenure in office, supported an extension of property tax rebates for middle-class families and voted for tax credits which spurred business growth. He refused the “lulu,” an additional taxpayer funded salary increase and fought against and subsequently refused the 25% City Council pay raise -- both of which he considered to be unethical.
Seeing this, Celeste Katz, of The Daily News, called Avella a “die-hard maverick reformer" in her recent profile of the campaign.
Avella's campaign to change Albany and provide real tax relief and jobs for New Yorkers has Padavan scared. His desperate turn to Albany style political tricks won't work this time; New Yorkers are tired of a dysfunctional Albany and are ready to say "38 years is enough" to Tax Man Padavan.
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.
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.”
Democratic Candidate Tony Avella Receives Major Endorsement, Releases New Campaign Video
By Mike Connery on 08/10/2010 @ 02:56 PM
Democratic Candidate Tony Avella received the endorsement of the Planned Parenthood of NYC Action Fund this morning.
"Tony Avella has returned a 100% pro-choice questionnaire and has pledged to be a leader on women’s health in the New York State Senate,” said Joan Malin, president & CEO of the Action Fund. “In the New York City Council, Tony Avella was known for his independence, tenacity and passionate advocacy. Avella has pledged to use that same energy to advocate on the behalf of reproductive rights and health in the NYS Senate.”
Avella is running in the 11th Senatorial District against 38-year Albany politician Frank Padavan, who has voted against legislation such as 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.
Avella also released a new campaign video today, which does a great job outlining his background, why he is running to reform Albany and how he'll serve the residents of Queens. Check it out and pass it on.
Tony Avella To Shake Up Albany
By Mike Connery on 08/05/2010 @ 02:56 PM
Tony Avella was the subject of a glowing profile by Nathan Duke, of YourNabe.com, titled " Avella promises to shake up Albany politics." Avella is running against Republican incumbent Frank Padavan, who has routinely raised taxes and increased state spending in his nearly four decade tenure in the Senate.
Duke highlighted Avella's determination to "push the envelope in Albany" and clean up a government that has become defined by dysfunction. “I think a lot of people are turned off and disgusted by what they see,” Avella said. “There is dissatisfaction with the government. I tell people you can’t not vote because then the system will keep going along. I think we should shake it up.
Avella described how he views himself as more of a “civic member" than as a politician. “I think I bring an ethical standard to government,” he said. “I had a 100 percent attendance record [on the Council]. When I ran for mayor, I still did my job. I have a real dedication to being an elected official.
This profile comes on the heels of The Albany Project's positive profile of Avella and his campaign, which was posted earlier this week. In that interview, 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, he said that "clearly, the Senate must have greater transparency, allow members greater opportunities for input and have much stronger ethics rules."
The district Avella is running in, SD-11, covers a number of Queens neighborhoods, including Bayside, Douglaston, Queens Village, Bellerose, Flushing, Whitestone, Little Neck, College Point, Hollis, Jamaica Estates, Glen Oaks and Floral Park.
Daily Campaign Roundup: Empire State Pride Agenda Endorses Slew of Democratic Candidates
By Mike Connery on 08/03/2010 @ 04:17 PM
TODAY'S CAMPAIGN ROUND-UP.... Today's installment of campaign-related news. The Empire State Pride Agenda endorses a slew of Democratic incumbents and Democratic challengers -- and not a single Republican. Democratic Candidate Mike Kaplowitz gets independence line.
- The Empire State Pride Agenda endorses a slew of Democratic candidates - The Empire State Pride Agenda, the statewide, bi-partisan civil rights and political advocacy organization dedicated to winning equality and justice for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) New Yorkers, endorsed seven incumbent Democratic Senators and four Democratic challengers in their second round of 2010 endorsements. Not a single Republican was endorsed by the group. “These endorsements are the product of careful consideration by the Pride Agenda’s staff and Political Action Committee,” said executive director Ross Levi in a statement. “Our decisions are not based on a single issue, but a comprehensive review of a candidate’s positions and record, as well an assessment of his or her leadership qualities.”
- Democratic Candidate Mike Kaplowitz gets Independence line - Mike Kaplowitz has secured the Independence Party line in the November election. He was chosen after an interview and endorsement process. “Voters in the Hudson Valley have shown time and again that they want to be represented by legislators who are independent of the special interests as well as the Albany leadership of both the Republican and Democratic Parties,” Kaplowitz said in a statement. “As an Independent Democrat on the Westchester Board of Legislators, I have been able to lead the way toward cutting millions in waste from the budget, consolidating departments to save money, and reforming pensions.”
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: Tony Avella is Taking Questions
By Mike Connery on 07/29/2010 @ 04:13 PM
TODAY'S CAMPAIGN ROUND-UP.... Today's installment of campaign-related news. Tony Avella is taking questions at The Albany Project. Republican challenger Anthony Como forced to return misused campaign cash. Republican incumbent Martin Golden drops petty petition challenge of Democratic challenger Mike DiSanto.
- What would you ask Democratic Candidate Tony Avella? - In their second installment of interviews of Democratic State Senate challengers, The Albany Project will be interviewing Tony Avella, who is challenging 38-year Republican incumbent Frank Padavan. Padavan scraped by in 2008, defeating Councilman Jim Gennaro by only 480 votes after a lengthy recount. Everyone is encouraged to send in questions for Avella here.
- Martin Golden drops petition challenge - Incumbent Republican Martin Golden, facing his first election contest in years, has dropped his challenge of Democratic Candidate Mike DiSanto's petitions. DiSanto declared that he was not surprised by the Golden campaign’s challenge, adding that it is not unusual for “entrenched” incumbent politicians to challenge opponent petition signatures. “Everyone in the community knows my signatures are valid,” said DiSanto. “We live in a democracy and do not crown kings in America. I will not be intimidated by those who seek to undermine the political freedom that our country was founded upon,” With 2,100 signatures, he collected over twice the number required.
- Republican challenger forced to repay improperly used campaign funds - Former New York City Council Member Anthony Como, a Republican running for State Senate against Sen. Joe Addabbo, has been ordered to repay nearly $13,000 in unspent and misspent funds to the New York City Campaign Finance Board. The charges stem from his losing 2008 general election Council loss to Elizabeth Crowley. The repayment includes $6,800 that was spent impermissibly on phone and copy machine contracts for his campaign office that spanned well beyond Election Day, repayments of unspent campaign funds, and $100 spent on a newspaper ad for the Holy Child Jesus Team Drama Club that the CFB deemed not campaign related.
Daily Campaign Roundup: Endorsements Continue To Pile Up
By Mike Connery on 07/23/2010 @ 04:46 PM
TODAY'S CAMPAIGN ROUND-UP.... Today's installment of campaign-related news. Numerous Democrats endorsed by Human Rights Campaign New York. Tony Avella received major union endorsement. Republican incumbent Stephen Saland spends $19,000 on dinner.
- Human Rights Campaign New York endorses Democratic candidates for State Senate - The Human Rights Campaign New York endorsed numerous Democratic challengers and incumbents who are all supporters of marriage equality and whose election will "put New York on a path to fairness and equality for same-sex couples in the state." They endorsed incumbent Senators Brian Foley, Craig Johnson, Tom Duane, and Dave Valesky -- and Democratic candidates Dave Mejias, Tony Avella, and Regina Calcaterra. Not a single Republican was endorsed by the group.
- Democratic Candidate Tony Avella endorsed by major retail union - Tony Avella, running against 38-year Republican incumbent Frank Padavan, was endorsed Thursday by a massive retail union yesterday. The Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union, which represents 100,000 workers across the United States and Canada, gave Avella the nod Thursday, calling him “an independent voice for working New Yorkers and taxpayers.” “He’s exactly the kind of reformer we desperately need in Albany right now,” said Stuart Applebaum, the union’s president.
- Republican senator Stephen Saland spends $19,000 on dinner - Showing just how out of touch he really is, Saland attended a $19,000 black-tie dinner for his re-election campaign that was thrown by a politically connected couple in April at their Rhinebeck, Dutchess County, estate. The $19,000 dinner was listed as an in-kind donation to Saland's campaign. That means it was for services rendered for a political function, but not a direct monetary contribution. "There's a lot of trust with the reporting by the campaigns," said Dick Dadey, executive director of Citizens Union, a good-government group. "There's very little if any verification."
Daily Campaign Roundup: Endorsements, Endorsements, Endorsements
By Mike Connery on 07/20/2010 @ 02:26 PM
TODAY'S CAMPAIGN ROUND-UP.... Today's installment of campaign-related news. Tony Avella gets major endorsement. Sens. Dave Valesky and William Stachowski receive the backing of Independence Party.
- Democratic candidate Tony Avella receives important endorsement – Tony Avella, running against 38-year Republican incumbent Frank Padavan, received the endorsement of City Council Member Margaret Chin - the first Asian American and the first Chinese American elected to represent New York City's Chinatown in the city council, and the first Asian American woman elected to the city council. “Tony Avella is the kind of elected leader that we need in Albany,” stated Council Member Chin, standing in front of the Flushing Public Library. “He has remained a champion for good government and consistently fought for his constituents while a member of the New York City Council. The residents of the city and the state need someone like Tony to stand up for the best interests of his community and to demand that other elected officials do the same instead of looking out for themselves.”
- Sen. Dave Valesky gets backing of Independence Party; accuses little-known pianist Andrew Russo of “sour grapes” and “paranoia”– Independence Party Chairman Frank MacKay overruled local endorsements and gave his party’s line to Sen. Valesky. After his opponent reacted with an angry and hate-filled press release, Sen. Valesky’s campaign responded: “Apparently our opponent is having an extra large serving of sour grapes this morning, sprinkled with misguided paranoia. The fact is that while our opponent was actively seeking the Independence line from the same leaders he now condemns, Sen. Valesky was collecting signatures from rank and file members of the party, gathering almost twice the required number from the party’s grassroots. New York State faces real problems and Sen. Valesky has been working to clean up Albany, protect farmers and sportsmen, and bring good jobs back to our community.”
- Sen. William Stachowski receives Independence line endorsement – In an important step to help aid his reelection efforts, the state Independence Party decided to give their ballot line to Sen. William Stachowski. The state party overruled the local Erie County endorsements, which were surrounded with rumors of dirty politics and quid-pro-quo dealing. “In overruling the decision of Erie County Independence Party Chair Sandy Rosenswie, state Chairman MacKay has sent a strong message: quid pro quo deals aren’t how you win nominations,” Sen. Stachowski said.
