Kingston, NY — Citizen Action of New York has announced its endorsements of Jen Metzger and Pat Strong for State Senate, and Juan Figueroa for Ulster County Sheriff.
Jen Metzger is running for the open Senate seat previously held by long-time incumbent John Bonacic. Pat Strong is challenging incumbent State Senator George Amedore in a district that was drawn for him during the controversial redistricting reforms in 2011. Juan Figueroa is facing long-time incumbent Sheriff Paul VanBlarcum, a controversial figure who has advocated for widespread gun ownership and vocally opposed protections for immigrants in the Hudson Valley.
Citizen Action of New York played a critical role in Democrat Cecilia Tkaczyk’s 19 vote win over George Amedore in 2012. The organization has remained an active presence in the Hudson Valley.
“Jen has been an active community leader in the fight for climate justice. After years of John Bonacic, who cares more about casinos than his constituents, it will be a breath of fresh air to elect someone who knows how we can create a clean energy economy, improve our health care system, and bring thousands of good-paying jobs to the region,” said Mary Vandezande of Citizen Action of New York.
“I am honored to receive the endorsement of Citizen Action, and stand as a partner in the fight for a just, equitable, sustainable, and truly democratic society. All people deserve to be treated with respect and dignity, be free from economic insecurity, have a good quality of life, and have the opportunity to realize their full potential. Realizing that vision requires finding common ground and building solutions constructively, and there is no substitute for hard work and basic human communication. I will bring this commitment to the State Senate, and look forward to partnering with Citizen Action in working towards a better democracy,” said Jen Metzger, Democratic candidate for State Senate in 42nd District.
“To fully fund our schools and get money out of politics, we need to turn out State Senate blue. Pat has deep community roots and knows what needs to be done to build an economy that works for all of us, not just the wealthy and well-connected,” said Loriman Rhodell of Citizen Action of New York. “George Amedore has been and continues to carrying out the bidding of downstate real estate magnates and corporate interests. We need representation in the 46th District that will put our people first.”
“Citizen Action is an important organization in our community, by continually reminding us that our activism really does make a difference. Whether it’s the fight for environmental justice, quality education or affordable health care, Citizen Action is on the front lines, making sure our voices are heard. I am honored to have Citizen Action’s endorsement for my State Senate race. I look forward to working with them next year in Albany!” said Pat Strong, Democratic candidate for State Senate in the 46th District.
“Juan is committed to addressing issues of discrimination and bridging the gap between law enforcement and the community,” said Deb Bessette of Citizen Action of New York. “He views addiction as a disease, not a crime, and wants to enact a ‘second chance’ program to reduce recidivism. Juan believes deportation is the job of the federal government, not local law enforcement, and supports common sense gun laws that will help keep our community safe.”
“Thank you to Citizen Action for their endorsement of my campaign for Sheriff,” said Juan Figueroa, Democratic candidate for Sheriff of Ulster County. “Together we can build a healthier partnership between community and law enforcement. I’m committed to running a Sheriff’s Office that treats people fairly, humanely, and with the respect that they deserve.”
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