Like most people, I am sure you have just about reached the breaking point with the TV ads, the four-color mailers, the social media posts, the text messages,  and the always annoying robo calls.  As one who has run for office now nine times and follows elections closely, these tools are what are commonly called “necessary evils” to help get A MESSAGE out to connect with the general public.
I highlight A MESSAGE because I would like to be clear that the message may be factually accurate or it may not be. This year is no exception as outside interests on both sides of the aisle are spending close to $100 million dollars to either showcase how great their candidate is or horrible the opponent is. That is freedom of speech in our country and it is up to you the voter to sort through the messages to make your own decision on a candidate.
My message today is simple – if you have not already done so, go vote on Tuesday, November 8! Voting is your opportunity to have your voice heard, it is not an opportunity that anyone should waste. People have given their lives for the right to vote and it is incumbent on each of us to inform ourselves, learn about the issues and the candidates, and go exercise our rights.
Most of you know that I am a registered Democrat who works across party lines to make sure all views are not only welcome but are also part of the final outcome.  That is why I am supporting individuals on our ticket such as Governor Kathy Hochul, Lt. Gov Antonio Delgado, Congressman Tonko, and Andrea Smyth for State Senator, among others.  I am excited to support the election of the first woman Governor in New York and also the first true Upstate Governor since John Alden Dix from Glens Falls who served as Governor from 1911-1913. What is considered “Upstate” is always a debate in and of itself, but we can save that discussion for another day.
Now you may agree with me on these candidates, or you may not, and I trust you will respect my position just as I will respect yours.  That being said, make sure your voice is heard and get to the poll if you have not done so.

For those who may not know where to vote, here is the state tool to help you find your polling site for November 8th:

Finally, if you voted already – Thank You!  If you voted for me to be reelected to the 108th NYS Assembly District – Thank You Again!   And even if you did not vote for me – Thank you for being part of the process. I will continue to work hard to represent you and hope to continue to engage with you on what matters most.  We may not always agree but I promise to always listen and engage in civil and responsible conversation.  We are a better society when we work together and learn from each other!

P.S. – Don’t forget the Environmental Bond Act on the back of the ballot!  For more information please take a look at a summary from our friends at the New York League of Conservation Voters – Environmental Bond Act – New York League of Conservation Voters (nylcv.org)

 


John McDonald