Senate Dems Call on GOP to Disavow Paladino
Sep 16, 2010SENATE DEMOCRATIC LEADERSHIP CALLS ON GOP TO DISAVOW CARL PALADINO FOR HIS HISTORY OF HATRED
(New York, NY)- Today, leaders of the State Senate’s Democratic Campaign Committee called on Senate Republican leadership and candidates to immediately disavow and disassociate from the Republican gubernatorial nominee, Carl Paladino, due to his history of divisive and offensive rhetoric.
Refusing to engage the public in an issue-based discussion on how to create jobs, cut taxes, and move our economy forward, Paladino immediately resorted to racist, sexist and anti-semitic comments and action that demonstrate he is unfit to lead New York.
Even prominent members of the Republican Party, including former U.S. Senator Alfonse D’Amato, and Senate Republican Deputy Minority Leader Tom Libous, have expressed concern regarding Paladino’s volatile statements.
Senate Majority Conference Leader John L. Sampson said, “Carl Paladino is a toxic and divisive figure whose denigrating and offensive rhetoric is unworthy of New Yorkers. His attacks on the values and diversity that makes New York great may help him catch headlines, but it won’t solve our state’s problems. Republican leaders across the state should disavow Paladino’s extremist and polarizing approach to politics so we can work across party lines to get results for New Yorkers.”
Senate Deputy Majority Leader Jeff Klein, Chair of the New York Senate Dems (DSCC) said, “Paladino politics of bigotry, sexism, and anti-semitism has no place in reasoned public discourse. We need leaders to build bridges, not burn them. Disavowing him isn't about politics, it's about common sense."
Senator Liz Kruger, Candidate Recruitment Co-Chair of the New York Senate Dems said, "This goes beyond politics and cuts to the core of our state's values. Carl Paladino has, through words, emails and policy proposals, proven he isn't worthy of consideration to represent New Yorkers in any capacity. A prerequisite to serving in the New York State Senate should be standing up for New Yorkers by standing against Carl Paladino, and the intolerance he stands for."
Senate Vice President Pro Tempore, Dave Valesky said, “In a time where we need to raise the level of discourse in New York State, the politics of hate, bigotry and ignorance that Carl Paladino is pushing cannot be tolerated. I call on all elected officials and candidates, regardless of party, to stand up and say no—we are better than this, and we will not be part of a platform built on intolerance and hate.”
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