2012 voter guide

Polls open: 6 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Election on Tuesday, November 6, 2012

About this Voter Guide

This Voter Guide is published through the combined efforts of the 5 Capital Region Leagues of Women Voters.

The guide is intended to help citizens cast an informed vote. The League does not support or oppose any political party or candidate.

An interactive online version of this guide is available on the League’s Vote411.org website. Candidates who responded after October 1st can be found there.

New Legislative Districts

Districts have changed! The incumbent who previously represented you may change after this year, even if the incumbent is reelected. Boundary lines and district numbers have changed. The U.S. Constitution requires that

district lines be redrawn following each U.S. census.

You can find your new district lines at the 2012 New York Senate and Assembly Maps of the NY State Task Force on Demographic Research and Reapportionment (LATFOR).

Where to Vote

Contact your County Board of Elections to find your polling place.

Voting Machines

Learn about the new voting machines in your county at Vote-NY.com.

More Information

For more information about voting, see the League of Women Voters of New York State or the New York State Board of Elections.

Voter Guide League of Women Voters of New York

New York State Assembly

2012

League of Women Voters: Voter Guide 2012

NY State Assembly

NY Assembly District 1 Candidates (choose 1):

Fred W. Thiele Jr. Party: DEM, WF, IND Biographical Info: Parties: Independence Education: 1971 Pierson High School, Sag Harbor, NY 1976 Southampton College of Long Island University, BA, summa cum laude, in Political Science and History 1979 Albany Law School, Law Degree Experience and Qualifications: Member of Assembly since

1995 Key Endorsements: New York League of Conservation Voters Sierra Club Long Island Environmental Voters Forum NARAL Pro Choice New York Planned Parenthood New York State Nurses Association, Association of Municipal Employees Local 338 RWDSU/UFCW Communication Workers of America Local 1108 Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: 1.Encouraging economic growth and job creation, especially through the revitialization of the Southampton campus of Stony Brook University and promoting sustainable industries such as solar and green building technologies. 2.Fiscal responsibility, through a continued balanced budget and tax reform. 3.Protecting our environment, especially the ground and surface waters of the Peconic and South Shore Bays. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: 1. Improve the progressiveness of the state income tax code 2. Invest in education, particularly our community colleges as a focus of job training 3. Invest in the state’s infrastructure, such as highways, bridges, and sewers. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I strongly oppose high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York, and firmly believe that we must prohibit any related activities. We’ve all seen the dangers of acting too quickly and jumping on the drilling bandwagon. There’s simply too much at stake when it comes to hydrofracking. I cannot support a measure which has the potential to cause irreversible harm to the


health and safety of our citizens and the environment. Plain and simple, hydrofracking does not belong in New York. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I have consistently voted in support of legislation to target campaign finance reform and will continue to support options for public financing of campaigns. I am a multisponsor of A.1267, which would create a system for clean election campaign financing. Under this system, a candidate who collects a set amount of small dollar contributions from voters, and who agrees to limit campaign spending/contributions, may receive a fixed and equal amount of public financing for their political campaign. Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: I have multi-sponsored legislation (A.9274-B) which would align the state and federal primary elections on the same day, thus increasing voter turnout. I will continue to support measures like this.


Nicholas F Deegan Party: DEM Biographical Info: Questions: The Candidate did not respond

Daniel P Losquadro Party: REP, CON, IND Questions: The Candidate did not respond



Edward J Hennessey

Party: DEM Biographical Info: Questions: The Candidate did not respond

Dean Murray Party: REP, CON, IND

Biographical Info: Parties: Republican, Conservative and Independence Campaign Web Site: www.votedeanmurray.com Education: Graduate of the Broadcasting Institute of Maryland Experience and Qualifications: Small business owner and current NYS Assemblyman Key Endorsements: NYSUT, Suffolk County AME, CSEA, PEF, NYC-PBA, Suffolk Corrections Officers, Suffolk County Deputy Sheriff's PBA, Nat'l Federation of Independent Business, NRA, Teamsters Joint 16, CWA Local 1108, LI Environmental Voters Forum Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: Changing the business climate to help create jobs. Bringing about true, meaningful mandate relief to school districts and local governments. Bringing much needed tax relief to our families and particularly our seniors. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: It all starts with creating a more business friendly environment. The creation of the regional economic development councils and programs such as NY Youth Works and the NY Works programs are a start...however, we must push forward with the complete elimination of the MTA payroll tax and reduce the incredibly high workers comp insurance and unemployment insurance taxes on businesses. We must also fight against the proposed 45% NY State Thruway toll hike on commercial trucks. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I do favor Hydro-Fracking as long as precautions are taken to ensure the safety of residents in surrounding areas and the safety of our water supplies. Requiring the companies to disclose the chemicals used in the fracking process must be part of the approval process. I also believe that a fee should be


charged per drilling, with thee funds being set aside to pay for any possible environmental problems. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I would like to see more transparency in the campaign finance process. I am open to discussing any proposals that would make the system fairer and more transparent. I think that issues should drive elections...not money. Unfortunately, under our current system, it takes a lot of money to get the message out to the electorate. Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: While I think that the Electoral College served an extremely important role when it was established...I think in modern day America, it contributes to low voter turnout in Presidential years. Under the current, "winner take all" system, the Republicans in a heavy blue state know their vote does not count...as does a Democrat in a deep red state. I believe that EVERY vote should count (as it does in every other election in the country), which is why I support the National Popular Vote.


Steven Englebright Party: DEM, WF, IND Biographical Info: Parties: Democratic, Independence, Working Families Campaign Web Site: www.facebook.com/SteveEnglebrightForAssembly Education: I received my Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Tennessee in 1969 and a Master of Science degree in

Paleontology/Sedimentology from the State University of New York at Stony Brook. Experience and Qualifications: I am a scientist, teacher and small businessman by profession and I have served as a Suffolk County Legislator and now New York State Assemblyman. Key Endorsements: New York State AFL-CIO, Public Employees Federation (PEF), Communication Workers of America (CWA) Local 1108, New York State Nurses Association, RWDSU/UFCW Local 338, Sierra Club, NYS League of Conservation Voters, Long Island Environmental Voters Forum, The League of Humane Voters of New York, Empire State Pride Agenda, NARAL Pro-Choice New York, Planned Parenthood Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected?


A: 1. Continuing to get our economy back on track. 2. Creating good job opportunities. 3. Promoting clean, renewable energy generation by sources such as solar and wind to create jobs and grow a new green energy economy. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: 1. Generate new jobs by incentivizing private sector investment through tax abatement eg: My new law provides a tax rebate for new commercial solar installations. 2. Make best use of the SUNY/CUNY system to enable job retraining, workforce readiness, new products, technology and medicines based upon research from the universities' labratories.3. Lowering the cost of electricity by initiatives like establishment of the energy highway which would transport low-cost hydro down to Long Island. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I do not favor hydrofracking as it has been proposed and am the sponsor of numerous relevant measures including the "look before you Leaps" bill that would impose a multi-year moratorium so that much new information can be utilized in any final decision. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I have always been a strong supporter of campaign finance reform and favor public financing so as to remove, to the extent possible, the influence of special interests. My enthusiasm for campaign finance regulation and enforcement is reflected in bills that I have sponsored and voted for and, if elected, I will continue to support ever stricter regulation and enforcement. Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: I strongly support ballot access and will oppose voter ID "screening" and other such measures designed to suppress turnout and access. Rather, I would support legislation that removes such artificial or contrived ("to stop fraud") barriers. Minority communities, especially, need fewer barriers. I support the shift from paper voter registration to online voter registration and applaud Governor Cuomo in instituting a new online voter registration services through the DMV in August.

Deborah J McKee Party: REP, CON Questions: The Candidate did not respond



Alfred C Graf Party: REP, CON, IND Questions: The Candidate did not respond

Victor E. Salamone Party: DEM Questions: The Candidate did not respond

NY Assembly District 6

Candidates (choose 1):

Philip R Ramos

Party: DEM, WF, IND Biographical Info: Parties: Democrat, Indepent, working Families Campaign Web Site: www.philramos.com Education: Phil graduated from Brentwood High School in 1974, and went to work as a therapy aide at the Pilgrim Psychiatric Center where he helped organize self-help groups for patients. Phil later became an Emergency Medical Technician and received

a commendation for delivering a baby boy on the side of the Southern State Parkway. Phil recently retired from the Suffolk County Police Department, after 20 years of dedicated service. He rose through the ranks of the department – retiring as a Detective. Experience and Qualifications: Over more than a decade experience, I am seeking my 6th term in the State Assembly. I am chairman of the 12-member Long Island Black and Hispanic Caucus in the Assembly. Chairman of the Long Island Latino Elected Officials Association. I am a divorced father of twins. Key Endorsements: NARAL Pro-Choice New York; Bridge and Tunnel Officers Benevolent Association; 1199SEUI; Long Island Federation of Labor AFL-CIO; Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: Education: We need to ensure that children receive a quality education from pre-k to college and that college remains affordable to everyone. Safety of our community: Guns and gang violence have a devastating effect on communities and only serve to tear us apart. I will continue to push the Senate Republicans to pass common sense measures that will help reduce gun violence. Revitalizing our local economy: The state must continue to foster a climate that’s business friendly, so we attract new bus


Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Over the past two years we have closed a $13 billion state deficit without raising taxes or fees. And to make New York more business friendly we created a permanent low-cost power program and provided tax credits to companies that hire new workers. This year we also slashed the MTA payroll tax--providing relief to small businesses and the self-employed and enabling them to hire additional employees. However, I realize we need to do more, that’s why I am fighting to help small businesses thrive. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: There are too many questions regarding hydrofracking that we currently lack answers to. That’s why I supported legislation that would suspend the issuance of new permits for drilling that involves hydrofracking until the Legislature has had adequate time to assess the environmental impact of hydrofracking (A.7400 - Sweeney). At this time the risks of hydrofracking outweigh the benefits. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: New York’s campaign finance system needs to be reformed. It simply costs far too much money to run for office. We need to come up with a way to keep the influence of big money out of campaigns and specifically, to put an end to those so called Super PAC’s that allow an unlimited amount of money to be spent on influencing campaigns without any form of disclosures. In fact it’s those very ads run by the Super PAC’s that turn many voters off and keeps them home on Election Day –and that’s wrong! Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: Voting is a right far too many Americans take for granted. A big part of helping increase turnout I feel is educating young adults about the importance of their vote and how we as a people must exercise our rights by voting on Election Day. With that said I support aspects of the Voter Empowerment Act of New York (A.1712C – Kavanagh) – which would modernize the voter registration system and promote greater participation of eligible voters in elections. By allowing 16and17 year olds to pre-regis Manuel Troche

Party: REP, CON Questions: The Candidate did not respond



Christopher D. Bodkin

Party: DEM Questions: The Candidate did not respond

Andrew R Garbarino Party: REP, CON, IND, MSP Questions: The Candidate did not respond


Michael J Fitzpatrick Party: REP, CON, IND Questions: The Candidate did not respond

Jesse A Safer Party: DEM Biographical Info: Parties: Democratic Education: Queens College, BA Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law, JD Admitted to NYS Bar. United States District Courts, Eastern District, Southern District and US Supreme Court Legal Instructor, Continuing Legal Education

Experience and Qualifications: Attorney 31 years, Prosecutor and defense attorney, practiced in all areas of the law, Served as a Judicial Hearing Officer in Property Tax for New York State, worked in 3 political campaigns for local office, NYC Council, Congress, New York State Senate Key Endorsements: pending Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: The Economy Job Creation Improving/lowering the cost of Education Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Build a mid-Long Island tunnel to Connecticutt, build a "Technology Triangle" between Cold Spring Harbor Lab and Brookhaven Lab, offer more job opportunities in exchange to forgive student loan debt, preserve the pension system for public employees, accept developer bids for use of the Kings Park Psychiatric Center site, continue the 2011 middle class cuts, place deadlines for Union negotiating demands, track the performance of teachers using follow up history and surveys of graduated students.


Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I favor hydraulic fracturing as a means of producing a high volume of gas and oil with safeguards, community by community for the water supplies, giving individual communities veto power over their proposed community fracturing. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: Yes. I would propose creating a fund similar to the IRS checkoff for US presidential Elections on NYS Tax forms. I would ask the State to request and publish online and in paper form the views of the candidates for each party. I would require copies of the ballots be forwarded to voters in advance with delineation of the candidates and an explanation of the job duties of each position Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: Voters should be educated to the negative consequences of apathy and non-involvement, such as the imposition of unpopular taxes, the unequal distribution of state revenue and spending or failure to spend on issues that are frequently the source of regret, such as military commitments, hikes in State tuition, tolls and use of facilities such as parks and beaches, that voters would object to if they were aware of the authority their votes give elected officials.



Jay S. Cherlin

Party: DEM Biographical Info: Parties: Democratic Education: Bachelors Degree: Health Care, Economics Masters Degree: Health Care Administration Experience and Qualifications: 25 years working with

government regulators and regulations. Legislative Chairperson for Association representing NY health facilities. Key Endorsements: Pending Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: 1. Pass the New York Health bill. Provides comprehensive health insurance for ALL New Yorkers and save New York State $26 Billion/year. 2. Address the Bethpage toxic plume. I am in favor of hydraulic containment for removing the plume, not wellhead treatment after contamination of water supply has occurred. 3. Lower property taxes and small business tax relief.


Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Help small business with tax relief. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Access to natural gas deposits that can be released through the process of hydraulic fracturing would benefit New York State. However, the issue of dangerous carcinogenic additives is a safety concern. I do not support the current proposal which uses these additives. The offshore oil and gas industry has successfully used non-toxic additives to protect marine life. This should be investigated and considered before fracking is allowed on New York lands. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: The Citizens United Supreme Court decision to allow corporate donations to independent campaigns. PACs, and political nonprofit groups was a blow to honest elections.I would like to see New York State pass laws to require full disclosure of donors to make candidates think twice before accepting contributions. Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: Permit early voting during weeks prior to election day, including weekends and evenings, only limited by cost of this accommodation. Also, absentee ballots should be revised and remove the reason for using this ballot.

Joseph S. Saladino Party: REP, CON, IND, TRP Biographical Info: Parties: Republican, Conservative, Independence, Tax Revolt Party Campaign Web Site: www.linkedin.com/in/josephsaladinoassemblyman Education: Master of Arts Degree, NYIT Major: Broadcast Journalism

Experience and Qualifications: A highly experienced 9 year member of NYS Assembly, Nassau Conference Assembly Leader for three political parties. 7 years experience Town of Oyster Bay Director of Operations. 9 years experience Town of Hempstead Executive Assistant to the Supervisor. Extensive career in broadcast news as a reporter and news anchor for many of Long Island leading radio and television stations. President & CEO Megamedia Productions Civil Engineering Assistant, Project Control Associates, Project Manageme Key Endorsements: Republican, Conservative, Independence and Tax Revolt Party. Endorsed by taxpayer/pro-business organizations, as well as all labor, workforce and government employee organizations. Endorsed by environmental


groups and lobbies, and cultural, fraternal and community groups who offer endorsements. Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: Protecting taxpayers and jobs. Protecting women and children from sex predators. Protecting the health of our community, our drinking water and our environment in an effort to protect Long Island's future and reduce the incidence of breast cancer and other health issues. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Minimize the anti-business climate in New York State. Reduce the job-killing taxes and over regulation, especially where it is unnecessary. Enact legislation to create a solar energy development zone on Long Island which will create high-paying careers in research and development, production and installation of affordable solar energy equipment. Allow businesses to grow and jump start our economy by minimizing the waste and unfunded mandates of excessive New York State government. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Currently Gov. Cuomo and the State D.E.C. are moving toward testing the safety of this practice in a small section of the State. I have voted to ban this technology near municipal water sources and watershed areas. We must be given an opportunity to review the DEC study of this practice and balance it with the great need for affordable energy. I believe it is equally important to focus on Long Island's chemical plumes which can adversely effect our sole source drinking water aquafirs. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: There is much reform needed in Albany related to this issue. I do not believe that taxpayers should pay for political campaigns. It is important that special interest money must not stifle free speech. New York requires reform and a blue ribbon independent commission of volunteers to force the reforms for which Assembly Republicans have been calling. All members of the State legislature must be equal and the public must have more control over outcomes and the taxes and regulations they face. Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: We must do more to educate voters. One way to increase voter turnout is to focus on high school seniors and as I have always done, inform them of their responsibility to vote and the ramifications of how they vote. An example of this is the fact that Long Island benefits by a State Senate Majority which provides a check and balance to the State Assembly Majority. We, and our children, cannot afford control of our state to be solely in the hands of one, New York City based political party.




Joseph S. Dujmic Jr.

Party: DEM Biographical Info: Parties: Democratic Party Campaign Web Site: www.JOE4NY.com Education: St. John's University - Bachelor of Science: Criminal Justice, New York Law School - Juris Doctor Experience and Qualifications: Deputy Chief of Staff to the Suffolk County Executive - served as a liason to the Suffolk

County Legislature, supervised personnel and worked with and monitored state legislation as a part of the Intergovernmental Relations Unit. Assistant Suffolk County Attorney - Family Court Bureau: Specialized in assisting the removal of children from abusive homes. In addition, recovered tax dollars by requiring non-residential parents to pay child support for children on Public Assistance. Key Endorsements: U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand,U.S. Congressman Steve Israel,NYS Working Families Party, Long Island Federation of Labor/ AFL-CIO, New York State United Teachers (NYSUT), S.C. Legislator William "Doc" Spencer, S.C. Legislator Steven Stern, S.C. Legislator Louis D'Amaro, Former Legislator Jon Cooper, Huntington Town Supervisor Frank Petrone, Huntington Town Councilwoman Susan Berland, Babylon Town Supervisor Rich Schaffer, S.C. Legislator Kate Browning (WF), S.C. Legislator DuWayne Gregory Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: 1. Create high paying jobs through the use of innovative economic development ideas which will include a New York State Local Preference Law that will give an advantage to New York based companies when seeking to contract with the state. 2. As a member of the Democratic Majority I will bring resources back to the 10th Assembly District that will help to reduce the tax burden on our hard-working residents. 3. Make Suffolk County the "Green Jobs" Capital of New York State. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: As previously mentioned, the state should institute a local preference law that will also be applicable to utility companies. The preference law must have apprenticeship language to ensure that the workers used are New Yorkers. In addition, small business owners should be provided with an incentive to employ our neighbors who find themselves unemployed through tax credits. New York State should also be encouraging "Angel Investors" to contribute to existing local businesses and start-ups.


Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Until research is provided to the contrary, I am opposed to Hydrofracking. This is a questionable procedure which will only shift our dependence from one fossil fuel to another. We need to invest in green energy and green technology on Long Island by providing additional grants to schools or vocational institutions that provide our children (and adults) with the skills they require to be prepared for these next generation careers. Build the workforce and the companies will follow. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: Fair Elections can only be obtained through publicly funded elections. This will level the playing field for non-incumbents. Campaigns and elections should be about ideas and visions of the future and should not be determined by which candidate has the most money. This is a plan that has been implemented in New York City with great success and we should utilize their system as a model for the entire state. Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: A number of states have started utilizing what is known as "Same-Day Registration." This is the type of measure I would seek a study on during my first term. If that study results in a strong indication that it would be advantageous to our shared goal of increasing voter turnout, I would sponsor the measure in the New York State Assembly. Chad A Lupinacci

Party: REP, CON, WF, IND Biographical Info: Parties: R,C,I, WF Campaign Web Site: www.chad2012.com Education: BA (2001), JD (2004), MBA (2012) - Hofstra University Experience and Qualifications: - 9 years teaching at the university level - 9 years of service on the South Huntington Union Free School District Board of Education - 9 years experience as a real estate attorney Key Endorsements: Senator John Flanagan, Senator Carl Marcellino, Assemblyman Andrew Raia, Assemblyman Jim Conte, Huntington Councilman Mark Mayoka, Huntington Councilman Eugene Cook, Suffolk County Legislator John Kennedy, Huntington Town Clerk Jo-Ann Raia Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: If elected to the New York State Assembly, I will focus on jump-starting the economy, addressing the inequity in school funding, and reducing crime so that parents can raise their children in a safe and secure environment. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment?


A: With respect to the economy, I will work with my colleagues in both the Assembly and Senate to encourage businesses to create jobs. I support a program for new businesses that includes a reduction in application fees for the first year and also elimination of business income taxes for the first year. My plan also includes tax credits for each new job created, with additional credits provided if the business hires someone who is currently unemployed or a veteran. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I look forward to working with Governor Andrew Cuomo to work on a plan for hydraulic fracturing. The Governor is working with the Department of Environmental Conservation to make sure that any fracturing plan meets the strictest environmental standards. I would have reservations about fracturing if strong environmental standards are not met. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: We have seen on the national level how the campaign finance laws enacted after the Watergate scandal have been ignored and circumvented, and how candidates have opted out because of internet fundraising. We must have more transparency on the reporting of contributions. We need to raise the contribution limits on individuals. As long as the voters know who is financing a camapaign, then they can make an informed decision. Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: I would keep the polls open to 11pm, extend the deadline for registration to 14 days before election day, streamline the absentee ballot voting procedure for all citizens --especially our servicemembers -- and allow early voting.

NY Assembly District 11 Candidates (choose 1): Rashad Cureton

Party: REP Questions: The Candidate did not respond


Robert K. Sweeney Party: DEM, WF, IND Biographical Info: Parties: Democratic, Working Families, Independence. Education: MPA, Long Island University, C.W. Post; B.A. Adelphi University. Experience and Qualifications: Member of Assembly since March of 1988; Village Clerk of Lindenhurst from 1973-1988. Key Endorsements: Public Employees Federation, NY League of

Conservation Voters, RWDSU/UFCW Local 338, CWA Local 1108, NY Teamsters, NARAL, NYS Nurses Assoc. Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: 1. Improve the NYS economy with good paying jobs; 2. Support enhanced educational opportunities; 3. Better protect the environment. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Provide resources for educational opportunities and invest in infrastructure to make NY’s roads and bridges the best in the country. New York State can also raise its minimum wage. I voted in favor of legislation to raise the minimum wage in New York State to $8.50 an hour and index future increases to inflation. Over the last five years, the minimum wage has increased by only 10 cents per hour, while New York families have seen huge increases in the cost of living. I support this legislation. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Only if it could be done safely. The following bills are needed, to ensure safety: A.7013 (Sweeney) which treats fracking fluid that is hazardous waste as hazardous, A. 3245 (Lifton) which would let municipalities decide through zoning whether or not to allow fracking, A. 10234 (Sweeney) which would require a health impact assessment for the use of hydraulic fracturing, and A. 8572 (Sweeney) which would create a natural gas production contamination response and compensation program. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I would support campaign finance reform. I am a sponsor of A. 9885-D, which would provide for optional partial public financing of certain election campaigns in this state; relates to identification of the source of certain political contributions. I voted in favor of this legislation in 2009. I look forward to supporting this legislation again in the future. Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement?


A: I am a sponsor of A. 489 which relates to enacting an agreement among the states to elect the president by national popular vote. This would encourage New Yorkers to vote because every state would be in play, and would garner the state more attention. I sponsor A. 813, which designates state and city universities of New York as participating agencies for voter registration form distribution and assistance. I sponsor A. 3553 which would allow any registered voter receive an absentee ballot.


Andrew P Raia

Party: REP, CON, IND Questions: The Candidate did not respond


Louis Imbroto

Party: REP, CON Biographical Info: Parties: Republican, Conservative, Tax Revolt Campaign Web Site: www.imbroto.com Education: JD, cum laude, Brooklyn Law School; BA, Fordham University

Experience and Qualifications: Served as the Manager of Policy & Government Affairs for the Long Island Contractors' Association, where I represented Long Island's heavy construction industry. I was responsible for setting industry policy with respect to legislation and regulations, and acted as liaison between the Association and the federal, state, and local governments. I advocated for funding to help build and maintain our roads, bridges, and transportation infrastructure and create jobs for thousands of Long Islanders. Key Endorsements: Public Employees Federation Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: My top priorities if elected to the Assembly will be reducing Long Island's onerous property tax burden, creating high paying jobs for Long Islanders, and retaining our youth, seniors and families. Long Islanders pay among the highest property taxes in the nation, which is forcing local business to shutter and driving our residents out of the region in droves. By focusing on property tax reduction first and foremost, we can boost our local economy and reduce the cost of living on Long Island.


Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: The state must take an aggressive approach to job creation, which must include reducing the state and local tax burden, reducing unfunded mandates on our local governments, and making crucial investments in our public infrastructure. Furthermore, we must root out fraud in our public services, including the estimated $5 billion dollars in annual medicaid fraud, which eats up our public dollars and forces us to provide fewer services to those in need. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: If hydraulic fracturing is to be utilized in New York, the utmost care must be taken to safeguard our groundwater supply and to keep our drinking water free of contamination. I support the disclosure of the chemicals used in the fluids used in hydraulic fracturing. Additionally, the Department of Environmental Conservation is expected to issue some of the strictest regulations in the country regarding hydraulic fracturing, which should mitigate some of the environmental concerns. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: No official should be elected solely because he or she has more money in the bank, and the influence of money in politics is concerning. I support the full disclosure of all campaign contributions and expenditures and strict enforcement of the state's financial disclosure requirements. However, I oppose public campaign financing, which invites fraud and abuse. Taxpayer funds should be spent on the public good and not be wasted to finance an individual's personal political aspirations. Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: I support efforts to simplify and streamline the voter registration process, including the introduction of online voter registration. We must remove as many barriers as possible to voting and voter registration, while taking care to minimize voter fraud. Charles Lavine

Party: DEM, WF, IND Biographical Info: Parties: Democratic, Independence, Working Families Campaign Web Site: www.chucklavine.com Education: University of Wisconsin, New York Law School Experience and Qualifications: Public defender in New York City, lawyer with specialties in municipal law and defense complex criminal cases, lawyer North Country Reform Temple and Glen

Cove Community and Industrial Development Agencies, member Planning Board


and City Council; elected Assembly in 2004; committees: Codes, Health, Insurance, Higher Education, Judiciary and Social Services; Chairman, Administrative Regulation Review Commission; Pres NY Chapter National Association Jewish Legislators. Key Endorsements: NY League Conservation Voters, NARAL Pro-Choice, Human Rights Campaign, New York State Nurses Association, Teamsters, AFL-CIO, Glen Cove Police Benevolent Associaton, RWDSU/UFCW, New York State United Teachers, Empire State Pride Agenda, Fire Marshal Benevolent Association Nassau County, Planned Parenthood Advocates of New York, Communications Workers of America Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: Another on-time budget controlling state spending while providing sufficient funds for education and healthcare; passage of laws that protect public safety and promote job creation and laws that relieve school districts and municipalities from costly unfunded mandates. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Our highly educated workforce makes Long Island a desirable location for sophisticated industry, such as defense. Am proponent of Governor Cuomo's LI Regional Economic Development Council. Pleased to have provided funding for Cold Spring Harbor Labs, which, along With Brookhaven Lab, Stony Brook, North Shore-LIJ Health System and Hofstra University will produce knowledge-creating and job-generating synergy for our future. Our outstanding public schools, producing workers, must be maintained. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Do not favor unless can be satisfactorily demonstrated beyond question that process can be performed without damaging our environment or the safety of our people; have voted for legislation designed to achieve that end and am sponsor of bill requiring mineral waste produced in process be tested in state certified laboratories. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: Campaigning finance reforms, achieved by President Theodore Roosevelt a century ago, have been overturned by the Supreme Court, opening floodgates to profligate corporate spending designed to purchase the type of government that can be owned by the highest bidder. We need public financing of elections; corporate interests are financing judicial elections in states such as Wisconsin, we need to develop a system for the merit appointment of judges in order to protect the rights of our citizens. Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: Am proponent of National Popular Vote, and am sponsor of on line voter registration to make process easier, favor early voting and setting election dates sufficiently in advance to make it easier for our deployed troops in harm's


way to vote. Favor measures to make it easier to cast absentee ballots. Am strong opponent of cynical measures designed to make it more difficult for Americans to exercise our fundamental right to vote. Favor legislation to return civic education to our classrooms Jeffery J. Peress

Party: GRN Biographical Info: Parties: Green Campaign Web Site: www.peressforassembly.info Education: Currently an undergad student at Old Wesbury College Sociology major.A.A.S.Restaurant Management,Nassau Community College,12/97. Associates Arts and Science Restaurant Management December 1997. Experience and Qualifications: Member Glen Cove Volunteer Fire Department 1999-present. Delegate Nassau County Fire Fighters Association 2004-Present.Elected Board member Congregation Tifereth Israel 1998-05.Volunteer for North Shore Sheltering Program 1998-08.Member Civil Service Employess Association Political Action Committee(PAC)2008-09. Ran for Glen Cove School Board 1994,95 and 2008. Ran for State Assembly 2000 and 2002. Ran for Glen Cove City Council 1999 and 2003. Elected Green Party State Committee 2000-present. Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: Replace Property Taxes with personal income tax,Lower sales tax,progressive income tax. Single Payer Health Care. Permanent Ban on horizontal hydraulic fracturing Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Create A Roosevelt style Public Works Administration by creating temporary jobs to jump start the economy. A Green New Deal which would create hundreds of thousand of permananent livable union scale wages by investing in solar,hemp,hydro,wind,and geothermo infrastructure. Also by reparing the many bridges,tunnels and roadways that are desperately needed. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I am against the use of horizontal hydraulic fracturing. I am in favor of a permanent ban on such use. In Pennsylvania this turned out to be disastaerous to land owners. This has not created jobs instead outsiders were hired for such work. There is no place for the traffic nor storage of such waste materials. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I would first reduce the paperwork such as filing eleven day pres primary to thirty teo day primary to post and reduce it to eleven day pre and post. In lieu of $1,000.00 if you raised less than $1,000.00 paper work is not needed. I would be in favor of public financing of all candidates equally from ninety day pre primary to ninety day post equally applied. Some candidates make honest


mistakes so they should be able to fix their mistakes before being fined than go after them. Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: 1)Take away the current law that prohibits convicted felons that are on parole from voting. 2)Allow all third party candidates into the debates such as US Senate and President to allow disenfranchised voters to know that there are other candidates besides the two major parties. 3)Same day voter registration allowing voters in the general election to vote at least on provisional ballots. 4) Allow voters to vote on Sundays as an option to get more voters to the polls.


John E. Brooks Party: DEM, WF

Biographical Info: Parties: Democrat and Working Family Campaign Web Site: www.electjohnbrooks.com Education: BA - NYIT AAS - Suny Farmingdale Experience and Qualifications: Former Insurance Executive -35 Yrs Director of Risk Management for Nassau County Former School Board Vice President and Chief of Fire Department Key Endorsements: Will not accept Special Interest Endorsements Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? (Maximum of 500 characters) A: Reform school funding. Nassau County is currently the most underfunded region of the state in terms of state aid despite the fact as a county we contribute more than our fair share of taxes. My plan calls for the funding of the core cost of education (required programs and services) based on regional cost factors and student enrollment. This would insure all school district in the state receive a fair share of state aid. Albany needs further reform, I would call for term limits on state Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Within the 14th Assembly District property taxes are the driving factor in our economy. Nassau County has the highest tax rate in the nation. In a review of 2010-2011 School Funding Nassau County was short change in state aid based on an equal distribution of aid on a per student basis over $750 Million Dollars. For businesses to grow and compete on Long Island we must correct state aid so we can reduce the far to heavy tax burden on both our homeowners and businesses. We have to create mor


Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Hydraulic Fracturing has great potential to a provide significant energy source for the future however the safety of this process is of great concern. We should allow a limited amount of fracturing in remote areas of the state, concentrating on developing a methodology of capturing the fuel in a safe method without contaminating our water source or endangering our communities. The State Legislature should establish a task force to working with the companies involved in this process to develop Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: The cost of campaigns is out of control. This years Presidential Election underscores how far we have come to making elections about money not issues. In my case running in a district that as a result of redistricting is 4 to 1 against me from a party enrollment standpoint, we were told by the experts we would need about $500,000 to win the race. That is in my opinion ridiculous. It is time we change the way we let this campaigns run. Limit people to only one line on the ballot, cap spending Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: More and more of our voters are growing to feel is does not matter who you vote for. The promises made in a campaign are not kept. Those who are elected go on to represent the party not the people. Good people do not even bother to run because they can not afford it and they do not want to participate in the negative side of politics. Our nation was founded on a great principal WE THE PEOPLE but those who get elected have turn the into WE THE PARTY and WE THE PRIVILEDGED. We need to make ma

David G. McDonough Party: REP, CON, IND, TRP Biographical Info: Parties: Republican Conservative Independent Tax Revolt Party Education: Columbia University Experience and Qualifications: I have been a New York State Assemblyman for 11 years and serve as the Ranking Member of the Assembly Transportation Committee and as Chairman of an

Assembly Task Force on Public Safety. I also serve on the Assembly Education, Health, Veteran and Consumer Affairs Protection Committees. I am familiar with the issues and constituents of the 14th Assembly District. Key Endorsements: New York State United Teachers,New York State Nurses Association,Nassau County PBA,National Federation of Independent Business--New York,Nassau County Police Department Detectives' Association and the CSEA Questions:


Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: My top priorities will include promoting economic development and providing local government and school district mandate relief. I support reducing taxes on business and individuals while eliminating unfunded mandates and continuing to provide constituent services. I also oppose Thruway toll hikes. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: I support the revision and removal of fees and regulations which are crippling our small businesses. Also, we should continue to explore public and private partnerships when cost effective. However, we must first utilize our pool of employee talent and qualifications before awarding contracts to provide firms. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Because there is a need for energy independence, I would support hydrofracking but only following a comprehensive report from the Department of Environmental Conservation which shows the process is safe. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I am against public financing of campaigns because I believe candidates should raise funds based on their record and achievements. Taxpayers should not be responsible for financing the political aspirations of private individuals. Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: Since voting is a privilege and not a mandate that can be legislated, we can only increase voter turnout and enfranchisement by providing an education campaign on the responsibility and importance of voting.


Mario Ferone Party: DEM Biographical Info: Parties: Democratic Party Campaign Web Site: twitter.com/MarioFerone Education: Currently a Junior at Stony Brook University, studying Economics and Political Science. I graduate of Plainview JFK High School in 2010 Experience and Qualifications: I believe i will be able to


properly represnt our community up in Albany. I want to provide a voice for young people, who are not ebing represented. I have news ideas, and willing to work with everyone to achieve common goals. Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: If elected my top 3 priorities would be in the areas of education,lowering the high cost of living, and ensuring the citizens opinion's and voices are actually being heard ( I want to increase communication between representatives and the public.) Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: THe state govenrment can strengthen the economy in several ways. First there needs to be a decrease in unncessary spending; i believe part of the problem stems from the philosphy of legislators who want to bring as much money back to their districts to ensure re-election. The state should take further steps to help with job retraining and funding education, which is imperitive to ensure a healthy economy. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: No, I am against Hydraulic Fracturing in New York. I feel it poses a huge threat to the enviroment and citizens of the state. The potential contamintation it can cause to our drinking water is not a risk i am willing to take. I support the temporary ban the state has placed on fracking, which has allowed the government to get a full understanding of the effect that fracking could have. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: Yes. I believe that current campaign expenditures are getting out of control. When i see how much money is being spent on campaigns across the country i have to wonder if the money could be going to better cause. This is why i am not accepting any money towards my campaign. I urge anyone who would like to donate to me, to give it to a chartiable cause instead. I strongly believe that there needs to be more transparency when it comes to campaign finances. Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: I would support intiatives aimed at getting more people registered. And making polls more accesible, this can be done by extending polling hours, location, and through information. I would also support making election day a holiday in the state, which i believe can increase turnout.

Michael A. Montesano Party: REP, CON, IND, TRP Biographical Info: Parties: Republican,Independence, Conservative, Tax Revolt Campaign Web Site: www.Citizensformontesano.com


Education: J.D. (Law Degree) CUNY Law school at Queens College, B.A. Criminal Justice St. Johns University, A.A.S. Police Science Nassau County Community College. Experience and Qualifications: Have now served 3 years in the assembly, practiced Law, was a Village Justice and Village Prosecutor, I am a former school board president and trustee, where I managed budgets, employee contract agreements, and school construction projects. Key Endorsements: NYS Nurses Association, Long Island Gas retailers Association to date. Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: 1. Substantial mandate relief for schools and local goverments. 2. Continue to reduce the size of state Goverment via consolidation of state agencies, and elimination of unescessary or defunct state commissions/agencies. 3.Continued balanced and ontime budgets,cap state spending, no borrowing & no tax increases, and enhance educational support by the dedicated use of lottery money. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Goverment needs to eliminate the red tape to establish and operate a business, streamline goverment reporting required by business. Eliminate the franchise tax, reduce the costs of power for business, reduce the costs of workers compensation and disability insurance paid by employers. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: At this juncture I am inclined to be opposed to it pending the study by the NYS dept of health and completed review of the report by the NYS D.E.C.. If it were to be approved we need to regulate the removal and disposal of the waste water & contaminates, ensure compensation for public property damaged or excessive wear & tear, protect the drinking water supply, and the property owners from being exploited. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: Yes I would like to have restricitions on the amounts allowed to be donated by Corporations and PACs, and restrict the use of campaign funds only for campaign ads, supplies and costs and not for personal items, trips and expenses. I would like to see more dilligent enforcement by the State Board Of Elections and the imposition of substantial fines to the candidates themselves for violations of the rules. Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: I do not believe that you can enact a law to require people to vote. While it is their constitutional right to vote it is not a requirement that they do so. I think a study should be implemented by the state to explore why people do not vote, determine the reasons and then address those issues by policy changes, educational programs or by legislation if required.




Michelle Schimel

Party: DEM, WF, IND Biographical Info: Parties: Democrat, Working Families Party, Independence Campaign Web Site: www.michelleschimel.com Education: BS,University of Pennsylvania, CWS Certified Wound Specialist, American Academy of Wound Care

Experience and Qualifications: Three term Assemblymember, Former North Hempstead Town Clerk, A Life-long Community Activist to Prevent Gun Violence, Former Vice-President of NYC Fashion Accessories Firm, Physical Therapist and Wound Care Specialist at North Shore University Hospital. Serves on Assembly Committees: Veterans, Environmental Conservation, Local Government, Transportation, Government Operations. Key Endorsements: Sierra Club, New York League of Conservation Voters, New Yorkers Against Gun Violence, Planned Parenthood, NARAL, NYSUT, Empire State Pride Agenda, AFL-CIO Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: Enacting Microstamping Legislation which allows law enforcement to trace crime guns. The legislation is endorsed by over 100 law enforcement agencies and elected officials across the state. It is vehemently opposed by the Gun Lobby. I will fight for a Statewide Health Impact Assessment on Hydraulic Fracturing. Reducing unfunded mandates for local governments and schools, for example, student testing requirements that force teachers to "teach to the test." Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: The state should continue to make fiscally responsible decisions and target resources to invest in our workforce and spur business growth with tax credits and provide low cost energy to small businesses. The 2012 budget invests in high tech innovation, and rebuilding state parks, roadways and bridges. I am sponsoring a Pilot Program-A Job Search Boot Camp, an intense 8 week learning experience to strengthen job seeking skills for the unemployed. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers?


A: No, I do not. I am a sponsor of legislation for a comprehensive HIA/Health Impact Assessment. I also have demanded a full disclosure of waste water management plans for the disposal of frack fluid, which to date, has not been done. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I have been a sponsor of the Campaign Public Financing Bill which helps empower small campaign donors. Too much influence is given to high powered donors and corporations. I am strongly opposed to the Supreme Court's Citizens United ruling. I am a sponsor of the Assembly Resolution for a constitutional amendment to overturn the decision allowing corporations to spend unlimited money on campaigns. Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: I support Governor Cuomo's initiative to make registering to vote easier, allowing people with a valid driver's license or state issued non-driver's ID to be able to register to vote on the DMV website. There are many voting laws that need updating - like the ballot format. Registration should also be allowed up to 10 days before an election. I also sponsored legislation that does not require a reason to receive an absentee ballot. Richard Stiek

Party: REP, CON Biographical Info: Parties: Republican Party Conservative Party Campaign Web Site: www.stiekforassembly.com Education: BS, Engineering, US Military Academy, West Point, NY MA, Psychology, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, Corpus Christi, TX JD, Seton Hall Law School, Newark, NJ Experience and Qualifications: Legal experience, 5+ years

Leadership experience, 8+ years Analytical Skills Constitutional Knowledge Key Endorsements: To Be Announced Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: My first priority is the introduce legislation that would limit property taxes, including a restriction against raising property taxes when property values have objectively declined. In addition, I would introduce legislation that would preclude new mandates from being introduced without complete funding, and allowing a five-year grace period for currently unfunded mandates to be fully funded. Last, I would work diligently with Gov. Cuomo to more openly enforce ethics laws in Albany. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Simplify the tax code and provide immediately-realized credits for long-term hires would be the first two steps to strengthening the economy and reducing


unemployment. Additionally, we need to improve our state's businesses ability to hire locally and not be limited by requiring all employees in the trades to join a union. If they want to join, encourage them to do so at their impetus. Also, we need to encourage our immigrant population to be more active in the workforce. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Currently, the science is nearing the point where hydraulic fracturing may be done safely. Until we reach that point, we shouldn't necessarily rush to break ground. We must make sure the science is sound and the unnecessary risks have been eliminated before we engage in inherently risky activities. Besides, the gas isn't going anywhere soon. We need to properly develop codes and restrictions that are efficient but also effective in their protection of New Yorkers. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I would simplify the system by which reporting is done. The current system is discouraging to outside candidates, like myself, in that the reporting system is complex and not user friendly. We need to make the state and local elections more accessible to everyday citizens who can't afford the littany of experts and professionals to simply try to be a candidate, let alone the complexity of financial filings. Plus, we need to offer a matching program for candidates with limited resources. Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: I would recommend making the votes count and offering people who are voting more of a say in the state government. Right now, there is a perception that Sheldon Silver runs New York, and our votes don't matter because he can simply write a check or coerce someone out of candidacy. We need to hold our elected officials accountable and let voters know that those in Albany are doing their jobs, not just nodding and accepting their fates.


Kevin C. Brady

Party: DEM, WF Biographical Info: Parties: Working Families Party, Democratic Party Campaign Web Site: www.BradyforWorkingFamilies.com Education: B.A. Political Science, Stony Brook University (SUNY), M.A. Urban Affairs, Queens College (CUNY)


Experience and Qualifications: Chapter Co-Founder, NY Parent Teacher Association (PTA); Youth Outreach, Men 4 Action (LIGALY); Family representative, Levittown Property Owners Association; Founder, Bobolink Lane Community Watch; Co-Founder, Stony Brook University Student Advocates; Budget Committee Vice-Chair, Stony Brook University; Senate Academic Affairs Committee, Stony Brook University Senate Key Endorsements: United Food & Commercial Workers (UFCW), Local 1500; Assemblymember Charles Lavine (Plainview/Glen Cove); '11 County Legislative candidate Eva Pearson (Farmingdale); Planned Parenthood of Nassau County Action Fund; Nassau County Democratic Committee; GLBT Democrats of Long Island; New York State Young Democrats; College Democrats of New York Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: 1) Preserve property tax-cap by improving school funding formula and union outreach. 2) Care for Veterans, Women & Children: bring Suffolk’s peer-to-peer veterans support program statewide, funding a permanent State panel on veterans' health & employment; banning female genital mutilation and closing loopholes to deny gun rights to domestic abusers; and removing the statute of limitations on child sexual assault. 3) Cleaner government: term-limits, lobbying bans and campaign finance reform. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Use New York- and American-made goods and no longer make contracts with companies that outsource jobs out-of-state or overseas whenever possible. Study a new state bank to invest our public funds in credit for local businesses. Raising our minimum-wage is inevitable: increase it on a planned fiscal calendar to restore its original cost-of-living value, and index the rate to keep up with inflation/deflation. Future casinos must provide health care and union-organizing rights to their workers. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I am a vehement opponent of so-called “fracking” until we have a better understanding of this new technology. Gov. Cuomo has rightly delayed a decision on allowing this until a health impact study is completed. If fracking is permitted, very stringent regulations are needed: 1) waste water cannot be transported to Long Island for processing; 2) chemicals used must be publicly disclosed to the State and neighbors of the site; and 3) local water districts must publish preparedness studies. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I support adopting the New York City-model of providing matching funds to the small donations candidates receive from citizens in their districts and lowering contribution limits. Begin a pilot program to totally public finance races for critical watchdog positions like State Comptroller and Attorney General. Increase transparency through simple changes at the Board of Elections website (ex. requiring corporate donations to candidates to be listed separately from their individual contributors).


Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: A "voter access bill of rights" and counties beginning early vote pilot programs will help restore confidence. One primary day for Congressional and State elections will reduce election fatigue and save money. A presidential primary the first Tuesday in March puts us in competition without being caught in the early states' jockey, building a new tradition. Requiring redistricting processes to maintain community unity as much as possible will build civic engagement and incumbent accountability. Thomas McKevitt

Party: REP, CON, IND, TRP Biographical Info: Parties: Republican, Conservative, Independence Education: B.A., Hofstra University; J.D., Hofstra Law School Experience and Qualifications: Deputy Town Attorney for the Town of Hempstead; attorney in private practice; Assemblyman for 7 years. Questions:

Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: The first priority is to create a business friendly environment in order to create jobs. We must also prevent and reduce unfunded mandates on our schools and local governments in order for them to reduce costs. The mortgage foreclosure process must be reformed to help those seeking modifications of loans so they can stay in their homes with their families. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: We must continue with the New York Works initiative to target specific projects. We should also expand the New York Youth Works program to encourage provide tax credits to employers who hire 16 to 24 year olds to all communities throughout the state, and not just a select few. The corporate franchise tax for small businesses with incomes under $200,000 should be reduced from 6.5 to 5.85%; and for those businesses with net incomes between $200,000 and $390,000 should be reduced to 6.85%. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: The DEC has been conducting an extensive Enviornmental Impact Statement on this issue, for which a significant number of comments have been submitted. If the Department allows hydraulic fracturing, the Legislature must ensure that there is proper oversight of the activities of natural gas companies, There should be a fee structure in place for the companies to fund such oversight. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer.


A: The State Board of Elections should be adequately funded so there can be audits of campaign filings and prosecution of violations. Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: I support the recent initiative through the Department of Motor Vehciles to encourage online voter registration. We must also streamline the process to obtaining absentee ballots, particularly for the military serving overseas. I would support a process that enables an online application for absentee ballots to reduce the timeframe to obtain the ballot.



Earlene Hooper

Party: DEM, IND Biographical Info: Education: BA, MSW, DHL Experience and Qualifications: Professional social worker/manager in public sector Key Endorsements: Numerous

Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: 1. Reduce Unemployment 2. Reduce foreclosures 3. Encourage community pride Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: New York is open for business. With intiatives we have begun in the Assembly and must continue should begin to show results. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Unsure at this time. I am waiting for more specific scientific information. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: We passed campaign finance reform in recent legislation. I believe we have addressed this matter. Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: Yes Elton McCabe


Party: REP, CON Questions: The Candidate did not respond



Gary B. Port

Party: DEM Biographical Info: Parties: Democrat Campaign Web Site: www.GaryPortforAssembly.com Education: NYU- BA 1983 Brooklyn Law School 1986 Judge Advocate Officer's Basic Course 1987 Judge Advocate Officer's

Advanced Course 1994 Command and General Staff College 1998 Experience and Qualifications: United States Army - 1986 - Present. Lieutentant Colonel. Legal adviser to a division commander and Ethics Officer. Assistant District Attorney, Kings County 1990-1993. Founder and senior Partner of Port and Sava. Founder and two term past president of the West Hempstead Chamber of Commerce. Coached little league and softball for 8 years. Scoutmaster and on the Boyscout District committee. Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: Economic Development for the district. We need to Work to find creative solutions to reduce property taxes, to include paring down unfunded school mandates and capping school superintendent's salaries. We need to address the environmental issues in district to include seeking state and federal monies to replace storm drains with a sewage treatment system. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: The Coliseum property must be developed. Since the Town of Hempstead controls the zoning, and the Town government is openly and blatantly anti-development we are blocked from any realistic plan. The solution is for the State is to use existing laws to remove planning and zoning from the town. A concerted plan using these broader laws must be put into effect. This cannot be done haphazardly, as the Town of Hempstead will vigorously litigate against any effort to develop the Coliseum area. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: The promise is great: it can turn New York into a new energy exporter and reduce our overall taxes. However not all of the treated water is recovered in the process. While the water is pumped below the water table, there are serious and legitimate concerns that this contaminated water can, through underground


pressure, infiltrate the water supply. There are also concerns about the proper disposal of the contaminated water.I support the Governor’s plan of a pilot program. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: At present the contribution limits are too high. Further, we need a real ethics watch dog with teeth to investigate contribution "stacking". Also, there are serious complaints that patronage employees in local government are required to contribute significant portions of their salary. Laws must be tightened up to prevent incumbents from using tax payer money to send out campaign literature under the guise of "information." No mailings should be allowed after May 1st in any election year. Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: Votes feel disenfranchised as there is little turn over for public office. By not voting, it become part of a self-fulfilling prophesy. This results in office holders becoming entrenched and voters losing any faith that their vote matter. One solution would be mandatory term limits. This would open up offices more frequently then once every generation. Edward P. Ra

Party: REP, CON, IND, TRP Biographical Info: Parties: Republican, Conservative, Independence, Tax Revolt Campaign Web Site: www.voteedra.com Education: LL.M., Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law, J.D., St. John's University School of Law, B.A., Loyola University in Maryland Experience and Qualifications: Previously worked in the Town

of Hempstead Attorney's Office as a Deputy Town Attorney and as a Legal Aide in the New York State Attorney General's Office dealing with constituent issues on a daily basis. Key Endorsements: New York Nurses Association, National Federation of Independent Business-New York, New York State Public Employees Federation, Superior Officers Association of Nassau County, Nassau County Detectives Association, Fire Marshall Benevolent Association of Nassau County Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: 1)In addition to continued fiscal restraint, we must reform and repeal the myriad of unfunded mandates that handcuff our schools and municipal governments 2)We must enact pro-growth legislation like rolling back corporate taxes on small businesses to help promote new jobs and improve our business climate 3)By properly funding our elementary and high schools and promoting technological innovation in our colleges we will ensure our next generation is ready to compete in a global economy


Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: As mentioned above we must improve our state's business climate which has been ranked 2nd to last in the entire United States. We must not only address the regulations and high taxes that stymie growth but also enact pro-business measures like the New Jobs NY package that was adopted by the State Senate this past legislative session. Further, we need to give small businesses the ability to compete fairly for state contracts with larger companies to ensure our tax dollars are reinvested in NY. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I believe it is the province of the environmental experts at the DEC to issue regulations and a report as to whether hydrofracking is safe for NY based on proper scientific study. I would further favor legislation to ensure that fracking waste-water is characterized as hazardous waste when it meets the definition of such, prevent such waste from being treated by publicly owned waste-water treatment facilities and ensure wells are drilled a safe distance from watersheds and wells. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I believe we should be more restrictive as to how campaign money may be spent in New York State and close up some of the loopholes that allow for unlimited donations to "housekeeping" accounts. Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: I think this starts with the youth in our electorate. We need to make them believe that their voices are being heard and that their votes matter. I don't think this is accomplished legislatively but rather through outreach, particularly engaging voters through social media and other technological platforms. I will continue to use things like Facebook and Twitter along with online chats and town halls as a means of interacting with constituents in the future.



David J. Sussman

Party: REP, CON, TRP Biographical Info: Parties: Republican; Conservative; Tax Revolt Campaign Web Site: www.sussman2012.com Education: M.D., SUNY Downstate Medical Center, 1974; B.S.,

SUNY Stony Brook University, 1970; Lawrence Senior High School, 1966 Experience and Qualifications: A member of the Five Towns community since 1962 and Lawrence High School graduate, Dr. Sussman lives with his wife and four children, who all graduated Lawrence High School, in the Five Towns today. As a Lawrence School Board member for 18 years, Dr. Sussman is an expert on education issues. A real reformer, Dr. Sussman has a record to lowering taxes. Since 2005, Dr. Sussman has decreased his district budget by 7% and cut taxes by 11%, all while maintaining programs and expanding services. Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: My top priority is fixing the education funding formula that robs the 20th Assembly district of over $70million EVERY YEAR, costing the average family over $1,200 EVERY YEAR. Not only is this our money, when its denied, local taxes are increased to make up the difference, causing ever-increasing property taxes that drive our neighbors out of the community and scare away business. Also, I will work on real regulatory & tax reform to bring more jobs to Nassau County, and advocate education reform. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: CNBC rates NY as the worst state in America for business, due, largely, to the taxes, high cost of living, and burdensome regulatory environment. The best way to create jobs is to make NY the kind of state where businesses want to set up shop. The best way to do this is through reducing the size and scope of our state government government, cutting taxes, reducing regulations, reforming pension and work rules, and reigning in the special interests that make doing business in NY so expensive Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Energy costs in Nassau county are some of highest in the nation. We need to get these costs under control and hydraulic fracturing (fracking) appears to be a


promising technology to do just that. Certainly, we need common-sense regulations to ensure the health and safety of our people and the natural beauty of our environment. Once those limited regulations are in place, the choice of whether or not to allow fracking should be left to local communities and counties, not controlled by Albany. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: There are no changes that I'd currently propose. Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: I believe that the best thing we can do to increase voter turnout is to make our government more transparent, so citizens can better hold their elected representatives accountable. For this reason, I suggest putting online, for every bill, a full vote list, a summary of all costs, long-term and short-term, and an explanation of all cost distributions by county, and average household within each county. In addition, full legislature attendance lists should be readily available online. Harvey Weisenberg

Party: DEM, WF, IND Biographical Info: Parties: Democrat, Working Families, Independence Education: BA - New York University, MS - Hofstra University, Professional Diploma in Administration - CW Post Experience and Qualifications: Former police officer, special education teacher, school administrator, Long Beach City Council Member, lifeguard, Supervisor of Recreation for Long Beach, and

a Chief Lifeguard Examiner. Key Endorsements: NYS Nurses Asn., Fire Marshals of Nassau County, NYS United Teachers, Public Employees Federation, National Abortion Rights Action League, several police and law enforcement entities. Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: 1. Lower taxes for homeowners, businesses and individuals to attract/maintain jobs and stimulate the economy 2. Protect health care funding in the state budget, while keeping health insurance affordable and accessible to every citizen by providing adequate regulation of the insurance industry to slow the trend of skyrocketing premium increases. 3. Ensure sufficient state aid to our schools is appropriated in the state budget, as it has a direct impact on local property taxes. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: I believe the state’s economy is on the right path to recovery. We’ve lowered income taxes for 99% of New Yorkers, created low cost power programs that created jobs, strengthened the Excelsior Jobs Program by enhancing tax credits


and investment incentives; and allocated $1.6 billion for infrastructure projects that put thousands of New Yorkers back to work. As a result, the credit agency Standard & Poor’s raised NY from “stable” to “positive, and the US Chamber of Commerce raised our rating. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I am opposed to hydraulic fracturing. I sponsor and voted for the following bills that have all passed the Assembly. These measures are necessary to keep us protected from the negative environmental effects of hydrofracking: A.7400 – moratorium on hydrofracking; A.7013 – requires dangerous hydrofracking fluid to be classified as hazardous waste; and A.3245 – preserves local control of zoning for hydrofracking. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: If re-elected, I plan to continue fighting for laws (A.8902-A) requiring the source of funding for political communications to be identified, disclosure of independent expenditures and disclosure of a candidate’s intent to spend personal funds in a campaign. I sponsored the Public Integrity Reform Act of 2011 (now law) which streamlined ethics enforcement,better identified and sanctioned violations,expanded financial disclosure requirements and, for the first time, makes it publicly available. Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: I have supported and sponsored new laws to ensure that military voters were fairly counted; ensured that victims of domestic violence are able to cast a special ballot and have their voting information kept confidential for their safety, established basic accessibility guidelines for those with disabilities; required polling places to be near public transportation lines; and provided for Russian language voting materials.


Brian F. Curran

Party: REP, CON, IND, TRP Biographical Info: Parties: Republican, Conservative, Independence, Tax Revolt Campaign Web Site: www.facebook.com/brian.f.curran Education: JD, CUNY Law School BA, Wilkes University Experience and Qualifications: Assemblyman, 2010-2012 Lynbrook Mayor, 2007-2010 Attorney-at-Law

Key Endorsements: Nassau County Fire Marshals Benevolent Association Questions:


Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: Create jobs, lower taxes, improve education by creating new standards, relieving school districts from unfunded mandates. I’m working to reinvigorate New York’s economy by spurring economic development. Partnering with Governor Cuomo and Senator Skelos, I’ve passed measures to create and retain jobs, making LI an even better place to live, work and raise a family. We’ve cut the state budget and reduced spending, capped local property tax growth at 2%, and provided a Middle Class Tax Cut. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Today, small businesses are pressured to keep doors open while customers have less money to spend. I’m continuing my work to create jobs and reduce taxpayers’ state tax burden. After voting for the 2% property tax cap, and passing 2 on-time state budgets without any tax or fee increases, I brought jobs to our area by investing in Long Island. It’s working. Over the past year, 155,000 private sector jobs were created. Earlier this year, almost 20% of new jobs in the nation were created in NY Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I have voted several times to continue to moratorium on hydrofracking in New York until the DEC completes its review. If the state experts determine it’s not safe for the watershed or environment, I will vote against hydrofracking. If it’s found ok, I will vote for the process as long as the wastewater created by the process is treated as hazardous waste, as I have previously voted 2 times in the Assembly. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I would support strengthening Campaign Finance rules in New York State, increasing penalties for those who file late or purposefully misfile incorrect contributions or expenditures. I also support tightening regulations around the misuse of campaign funds by any candidate, committee or public official as it is in the best interest of New Yorkers. Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: I would seriously consider supporting the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, an agreement between several states that would replace current rules regarding the apportionment of presidential electors with rules guaranteeing the election of presidential candidates with the most popular votes. Jeffrey S. Friedman

Party: DEM, WF Biographical Info: Parties: Democrat and Working Families Party Campaign Web Site: www.friedmanforassembly.com


Education: State University of New York at Albany B.A Capital University J.D. Experience and Qualifications: I practiced law for over a decade and became partner. I worked as an organizer/community activist and a stay at home parent. As an attorney who ran a small law practice, I understand the needs of the small business owner. My role as an organizer and community activist has brought me closer to understanding the needs of the entire community, and learned how to pass legislation in Albany. Being a stay at home parent; I too understand the daily family routine from play dates, carpools and budget Key Endorsements: Democratic Party Working Families Party The Victory Fund Empire State Pride Agenda Hofstra University Democratic Club NARAL-PRO-CHOICE Of New York 504 Democratic Club New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) MEUSA 338 RWDSU/UFCW: United Food and Commercial Workers Union Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: My priorities are reducing property taxes;improving education;and reducing the cost of living for Long Island’s middle class.Families pay 10 to 20% of income in property taxes.Despite school closures and program elimination, our schools face further cuts.We need real mandate relief and efficiencies in school districts top-heavy with administrative costs.Nassau County unemployment has increased even as the national rate has gone down. Residents don’t have the income to survive much less support Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: To jump-start our New York State economy we need two new programs. First, we must implement a jobs plan similar to the one passed by the State Senate last year with bi-partisan support. This plan uses tax breaks to incentivize business owners to employ new hires and streamlines business regulations. Second, we need to change the tax structure to relieve the middle class from the heavy burden imposed by exorbitant property taxes. Our middle class families need more disposable income. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I favor continuing the moratorium deferring a final decision on hydraulic fracturing. I would favor fracturing if we were certain that the health, safety and tax dollars of New Yorkers would be adequately protected. There is no reason to rush into this until the DEC has delivered its health report and appropriate regulations are in place to protect our citizens and our environment. We must also ensure that New Yorkers will not be burdened with any additional costs due to fracturing. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I believe that both individuals and corporations should have lower limits on their campaign contributions. With a 96% re-election rate in the state legislature, public confidence is very low. The perception and the reality of corruption in Albany is something that we need to actively combat. Campaign


finance should be structured to encourage fair and competitive elections. One person, one vote is the backbone of our participatory democracy. Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: Both campaign finance reform and non-partisan redistricting would go a long way toward ensuring competitive races in which the voters have a real voice. When legislators use re-districting to gerrymander their own districts, voters feel disenfranchised. Many legislators have been in office for two or three decades, and when they retire they, in effect, designate their successors. People don’t vote when they feel their votes don’t count.


Michaelle C. Solages

Party: DEM, WF Biographical Info: Parties: Democratic (DEM) Working Families Party (WF) Campaign Web Site: www.MichaelleSolages.com Education: Hofstra University· Atheltic Training ·Hempstead, New

York Graduated with a Bachelor of Science from the School of Education, Health and Human Services Experience and Qualifications: Supervisor of Access Services at Hofstra University Library, Paralegal, Legislative Intern, Political Coordinator, Union Member, and photojournalist Key Endorsements: N.Y.S AFL-CIO, N.Y.S United Teachers, 504 North Star Democratic Club, 1199SEIU, SEIU 32BJ, Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1179, Long Island Federation of Labor, Nassau County Police Benevolent Association, Superior Officers Association of Nassau County, Nassau County Police Department Detectives' Association, Court Officers Benevolent Association of Nassau County, New York State Troopers PBA, Nassau County Sheriff Officers Benevolent Association, Uniformed Fire Officers Association Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: Education I will be a united voice for all New Yorkers in improving the education system. I believe that every child in this State should have the opportunity to attend college. Economic Development I will fight for jobs through small business incentives and new business creation at Belmont Park. Health care I believe that fraud and waste must be eradicated in the Medicaid system. I will remaining committed to healthcare policies that protect society's most vulnerable individuals. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment?


A: The State government must reform some of its tax laws to eliminate certain loopholes. I support an initiative that would eliminate tax loopholes for the wealthiest New Yorkers and corporations. As an Assemblywoman, I would try to eliminate these loopholes because the loopholes are wasteful. The money saved from the elimination of these loopholes could be used to reduce unemployment and create jobs. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: There is no doubt that an energy crisis exists in New York. While hydraulic fracturing may produce limited short term economic gains, it could potentially be harmful to the environment and surrounding communities. Before we can seriously consider hydraulic fracturing as an alternative energy source, the state must perform an objective and unbiased health impact study. We should also focus on alternative energy sources such as wind and solar energy. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I would propose changes to our current campaign finance laws. Under the current state of affairs, there is little to no enforcement of campaign finance violations. The campaign finance laws must be changed to allow for greater enforcement of violations. Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: The legislature should enact legislation to address voter suppression and voter intimidation. In Nassau County, voter suppression and voter intimidation causes low voter turnout. This is a serious problem that must be addressed by our State legislature. Our legislature must create laws that would impose strong penalties against individuals who intimidate and suppress voters. Sean Wright

Party: REP, CON, IND, TRP Biographical Info: Parties: Republican, Conservative, Independence Education: Johns Hopkins University graduate; CUNY Law School graduate Experience and Qualifications: Practicing attorney for over 10 years; Town of Hempstead Deputy Town Attorney; Deputy Prosecutor, Valley Stream; active in a number of community civic

and fraternal organizations including Knights of Columbus (Third Degree), Assistant Coach, Valley Stream Green Hornets Football youth organization, member CSEA. Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: 1. To work with Senator Majority Leader Dean Skelos to continue creating initiatives to stimulate job growth and encourage the entrepreneurial spirit


among the business sector. 2. To provide tax relief to the already overburdened middle-class. 3. To maintain a high level of service excellence from state government, including compassionate relief to those most vulnerable, while keeping a tight handle on government spending. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: The local areas need assistance from the state to encourage job growth within the skilled labor force such as plumbers, electricians, carpenters, steel workers. The state should be partnering with local municipalities such as Nassau County, the Town of Hempstead and villages to enhance job growth around the Nassau Hub, Belmont Park and JFK airport. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Hydro fracking is an opportunity to create jobs, not only in distressed areas upstate, but would have a dramatic impact on our local economy here in Nassau, in addition to helping our region gain energy independence from overseas sources. However it requires serious, intensive study, as any environmental implications would have to be addressed first and foremost. I support A4237 which establishes a moratorium on drilling & would protect the water supply in western Nassau County. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: Needs further review. Must be equal and equitable for all parties concerned Q: Voter Turnout: Since New York's voter turnout is extremely low, ranking 47th out of 50, what legislation would you support or introduce to increase voter turnout and enfranchisement? A: Civic responsibility must begin at an early age and the school system must play a greater role. I would introduce legislation requiring all schools to incorporate voter education into the curriculum.

NY Assembly District 88 District 88 – Scarsdale, part of City of White Plains, Eastchester, part of City of New Rochelle, part of Pelham


PAULIN, AMY R. Party: D, WF, IN Biographical Info: City/Town of Residence: Scarsdale Current Political Office: Member of Assembly Education: BA, SUNY Albany, ’77; MA, SUNY Albany, ’78


Prior Civic Service: My Sisters’ Place, Executive Director; Scarsdale Village Board, Trustee; NYS League of Women Voters, Vice President; Westchester and Scarsdale League of Women Voters, President Campaign Web Site: www.amypaulin.com Campaign Email: [email protected] Campaign Phone: (914) 722-9370 Home Address: 12 BURGESS RD , SCARSDALE NY 10583 Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: •Strengthening the state economy by lowering property taxes and creating jobs. Continuing to provide mandate relief to municipalities. Focusing on regional economic development projects and making the State more business-friendly. •Enhancing public education. Fighting for our fair share of state aid to maintain our quality schools. •Increasing transparency and accountability in government. Strengthening the freedom of information and open meetings laws, and passing campaign finance reform. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Decreasing taxes will strengthen the economy. I voted to reduce tax rates for the middle class. I held the line on State spending, yet increased funding for local public schools to provide property tax relief. The state should focus on regional economic development projects and higher education to create jobs. I voted to create and fund Regional Economic Development Councils, resulting in new jobs in Westchester and statewide. I also supported increased aid for SUNY/CUNY community colleges. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I have strong reservations about hydraulic fracturing since we do not know the long-term environmental and safety impact. I have sponsored a bill to adopt a moratorium on drilling. I also sponsored a bill to require hydrofracking fluid to be classified as hazardous waste if it fits the criteria, to ensure safe handling and storage. To preserve local control of zoning issues related to hydrofracking, I supported a bill to allow local zoning laws to apply to determine if it is a permissible use. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: Reform is needed to make elections more fair, transparent, and accountable to the electorate. I sponsored legislation to ban fundraisers in Albany during the legislative session, reduce the influence of special interests, and end the "Pay-To-Play" culture in Albany. I proposed a bill to prohibit the personal use of campaign funds by elected officials. I also sponsored a bill to provide public matching funds to candidates who agree to limit contributions and campaign spending. Q: Transportation: Please explain your position on the Tappan Zee Bridge project and and the reasons for your position. A: The Tappan Zee Bridge is critical to the economic and social well being of all New Yorkers. It is time to move forward to build a new and better bridge. I


believe that plans for mass transit, ideally bus rapid transit, should be included. We must act quickly and take advantage of the $2 billion in Federal funding available if the state builds a new bridge. New engineering techniques and better materials will be used to build a bridge with a much longer lifespan- a wiser use of taxpayer money.

NY Assembly District 89 District 89 – part of City of New Rochelle, City of Mount Vernon, part of Pelham


PRETLOW, J GARY Party: D, WF, IN

Biographical Info: City/Town of Residence: mt. vernon Current Political Office: state assemblyman Education: bba baruch, Prior Civic Service: mt vernon city council Campaign Web Site: n/a Home Address: 30 EHRBAR AVE F301, MT VERNON NY 10552 Home Phone: 9140720-8775 Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: As chair of the committee on racing and wagering my first priority is second passage of the constitutional amendment legalizing casinos in the state of New York. Second, is helping high- need school districts in securing adequate funds to properly educate our children. Third would be to craft a legislative solution to facilitate the construction of more affordable housing. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: If the constitutional amendment passes and is approved by the voters this November a low estimate for job creation is 17,000 new jobs. Making the state more business friendly would keep jobs in this state as well as attract new businesses. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I do not support hydraulic fracturing there are too many questions regarding the fluids used in this process and the majority of the shale deposits in New York are too close to the New York City watershed which supplies drinking water to at least 10 million people, we cannot risk poisoning our water. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: Yes, limiting corporate contributions and their ability to hide those contributions namelessly in political action committees.


Q: Transportation: Please explain your position on the Tappan Zee Bridge project and and the reasons for your position. A: I favor replacing the Tappan Zee bridge, I think $5 billion is too much but the traffic flow necessitates a new bridge, the existing bridge to the best of my knowledge cannot be repaired adequately.


District 90 – City of Yonkers


MAYER, SHELLEY B.

Party: D, WF, IN Biographical Info: City/Town of Residence: Yonkers Current Political Office: NYS Assembly Education: JD SUNY Law School 1979, BA UCLA 1975 Prior Civic Service: Assistant Attorney General (NY Attorney General's Office 1982-1995), General Counsel to the NYS Senate Democratic Conference (2007-2011); former Board Member, Yonkers Public Library, JCY-WCP Campaign Web Site: www.shelleymayerforassembly.com

Campaign Email: [email protected] Campaign Phone: (914) 230-0813 Home Address: 9 Inverness Road, Yonkers (Scarsdale PO), NY 10583-3529 Home Phone: 914-723-6458 Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: Strong advocacy to obtain additional funding for the Yonkers Public Schools, working to bring economic development to Yonkers which will provide good-paying jobs to Yonkers residents and tax revenues to the City; and protecting our quality of life in Yonkers with safe streets and public services. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: The State must work with municipalities, like Yonkers, to streamline and incentivize economic growth; reduce regulations which are burdensome and unjustified and enforce those that weed out "bad apples" in our business community; identify unique areas of economic opportunity and work collaboratively with local leaders to create new investment and good paying jobs.


Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: At the current time, until the science is clear, I favor a moratorium on hydrofracking. The protection of health and safety is paramount and until the science and technology indicate that the process does not threaten health and safety, hydrofracking should not be developed in NYS. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I support public financing of campaigns, phased in over several years, to allow regular New Yorkers the opportunity to run for office and to serve. Until we have public financing, those with private wealth have an overwhelming advantage which discourages newcomers without independent means and protects incumbents from challenge. I also favor stronger enforcement of current election laws. Q: Transportation: Please explain your position on the Tappan Zee Bridge project and and the reasons for your position. A: I support the Tappan Zee project because our region needs a new bridge to meet the tremendous demand for cross-Hudson traffic. I applaud the Governor for his leadership on this issue. I also support the creation of good-paying construction funds on critical infrastructure projects like the Tappan Zee. I support the designation of dedicated lanes for bus traffic, and believe that additional attention to mass transit will result in structural improvements when additional funds are available.

NY Assembly District 91 District 91 – Mamaroneck, City of Rye, Rye


OTIS, STEVEN Party: D, WF, IN Biographical Info: City/Town of Residence: Rye Current Political Office: Westc. Muni Off. Ass Exec Comm 2002- , President, 2005-06; NYS Ass. Consv Comm, Bd of Dir 1993- . Education: B.A., Hobart College 1979; M.P.A.,(Masters in

Public Administration) NYU (Public Admin.) 1982; J.D., Hofstra University School of Law 1984. Prior Civic Service: Mayor, City of Rye 1998-2009; LI Sound Watershed Intermunicipal Counc. 1999-09, Vice Ch 2002-09; County Flood Act. Task Force 2007-10; Rye Town Park Comm, 12 yrs; Rye Conserv. Comm, 1989-95, Ch 3 yrs. Campaign Web Site: www.steveotisassembly.com


Campaign Email: [email protected] Campaign Phone: (914) 921-6959 Home Address: 26 Lynden Street, Rye, NY 10580-3619 Home Phone: 914-967-8152 Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: 1.Making New York more affordable by reducing the cost of government at all levels, property tax relief, reducing state mandates that raise costs to municipalities and school districts, using innovation to lower costs and maintain services. 2.Advocating for more state aid to local school districts to improve education and lower property tax burden. Support college financial aid programs. 3.Supporting Governor Cuomo’s efforts to encourage small business and private sector job creation. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: New York should continue the important steps that were taken in 2011-12 including reducing taxes on businesses and middle class individuals, streamlining business regulations and approvals, consolidating all state grant programs through the Governor’s Regional Economic Council program with a focus on job creation, lowering energy costs, and targeting needed infrastructure spending to regional job creation projects such as the Tappan Zee Bridge and regional road and flood mitigation projects. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I have serious concerns regarding hydrofracking and would oppose this practice in New York State until the technology and regulatory rules exist to extract these resources safely. There are a variety of impacts on upstate water quality, tourism, agriculture, local roads, residential neighborhoods, and public health that need to be addressed. I support protecting local government home rule land use control over hydrofracking, as they have for other commercial activities. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: Campaign finance involves a number of interrelated issues that should be addressed together. Given changes in federal case law, the ability of large contributors to affect elections has increased dramatically. Campaign finance issues that should be addressed include: increased disclosure and reporting, review of contribution limitations, and discussion of public financing options to provide improved access to individuals seeking to run for office. Q: Transportation: Please explain your position on the Tappan Zee Bridge project and and the reasons for your position. A: I support the Governor’s plan to proceed with the new Tappan Zee Bridge, as its structure accommodates mass transit, replaces the current bridge which carries expensive maintenance costs, and takes advantage of available federal funding and fast track approvals needed to make a needed new bridge a reality.


VILLANOVA, WILLIAM J. Party: R, C Biographical Info: City/Town of Residence: Port Chester Current Political Office: Deputy Supervisor - Town of Rye Education: American Academy McAllister - AS Campaign Web Site: www.billvillanova.us Campaign Email: [email protected] Campaign Phone: (914) 760-6454 Home Address: 73 HAWLEY AVE , PORT CHESTER NY 10573 Questions: The Candidate did not respond

NY Assembly District 92 District 92 – Mount Pleasant, Greenburgh


ABINANTI, THOMAS J Party: D, WF, IN

Biographical Info: City/Town of Residence: Pleasantville, Mount Pleasant Current Political Office: NYS Assemblyman Education: N.Y.U. Law School, Fordham College, Xaverian H.S. Prior Civic Service: Westchester County Legislator (19 years), Greenburgh Town Councilman (6 years) Campaign Web Site: www.abinanti.com Campaign Email: [email protected] Campaign Phone: (914) 328-9000 Home Address: 291 BEAR RIDGE RD , PLEASANTVILLE NY 10570 Home Phone: 914-949-1700 Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: 1.) Bring good jobs to Westchester; 2.) Restore fair state aid for our schools to stabilize property taxes; 3.) Protect our water, air and open space. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: 1.) Expand on our strengths: biotech, medical and public and private educational institutions; 2.) Focus on emerging technology in the information, health, environment, and energy fields; 3.) Reinvest/rebuild our aging infrastructure ( buildings, bridges, roads, playgrounds, etc.); 4.) Stop


eliminating and increase government/education jobs – direct employment is less expensive than indirect incentivizing. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I oppose "hydrofracking." It is an inefficient costly process that consumes enormous quantities of clean water to produce limited quantities of natural gas while posing significant danger to our water, air and land resources. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: We need to remove the influence of big money from NYS government: 1.) take all necessary steps to eliminate large corporate expenditures (now permitted by the US Supreme Court); 2.) adopt a NYS public financing program similar to New York City's successful system. We need to insure that all money expended by anyone (including independent committees) to influence any NYS government decision-making is promptly publicly disclosed - indicating it's source, it's purpose and how it is spent. Q: Transportation: Please explain your position on the Tappan Zee Bridge project and and the reasons for your position. A: We need a reasonable, common sense, affordable plan for the deteriorating Tappan Zee Bridge that: 1.) has a mass-transit component which moves people not just motor vehicles; and 2.) is community and river-friendly — doesn’t destroy neighboring communities or the Hudson and doesn't raise tolls out of the reach of local residents.

NY Assembly District 93 District 93 – North Salem, Lewisboro, Bedford, Pound Ridge, City of Mount Kisco, New Castle, North Castle, Harrison, part of City of White Plains

Candidates (choose 1): BUCHWALD, DAVID

Party: D, WF, IN Biographical Info: City/Town of Residence: White Plains Current Political Office: Member of the White Plains Common Council Education: Yale University, BS in Physics; Harvard Law School, JD; John F. Kenendy School of Government, MPP Prior Civic Service: Current positions: Chair, Metro-North Railroad Commuter Council, an advocacy group for Metro-

North riders; Board Member, White Plains Historical Society; Chair, White Plains Traffic Commission Campaign Web Site: www.davidbuchwald.com Campaign Email: [email protected] Campaign Phone: (914) 948-1947


Home Address: 4 MARTINE AVE PH04, WHITE PLAINS NY 10606 Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: My top priority is to create good, middle class jobs in Westchester. There are still too many people out of work and looking for a job, and we need to change that. Second, we need to control the tax burden that our local homeowners and businesses are facing. I’m very proud that White Plains has been in compliance with Gov. Cuomo’s property tax cap. Finally, I want to make sure Albany is listening to us by strengthening state ethics laws and representing our moderate values in the Assembly. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: We must invest in infrastructure and mass transit to create jobs now and lay the groundwork for future growth. As a City Councilman I’ve also worked closely with our Business Improvement District to bring businesses and jobs back into downtown White Plains, filling our storefronts. As Assemblyman I’ll work with BIDs and chambers of commerce across the district to boost our downtowns and Main Streets. And as a former economic analyst I can help towns and cities develop innovative economic plans. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I oppose hydro-fracking here in New York, and believe that we need to ban it in order to protect all New Yorkers from its unacceptable risks. In fact, I’m the only candidate in this race who wants to ban hydro-fracking. In places like Pennsylvania and Wyoming, where they’ve already tried hydro-fracking, there has been significant groundwater contamination. Westchester’s families can’t afford for us to let oil and gas companies take those kinds of risks with our health here in New York. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: We need to fundamentally reform our campaign finance laws so that New Yorkers can have confidence that our elected officials are truly representing us. Governor Cuomo and good government groups have made campaign finance reform a top priority for the next legislative session, and if elected I’ll work with them to make effective campaign finance reform a reality. We need to reduce contribution limits, close loopholes and improve disclosure so that no one has undue influence on our elections. Q: Transportation: Please explain your position on the Tappan Zee Bridge project and and the reasons for your position. A: I agree with Governor Cuomo’s plans for the Tappan Zee Bridge, which call for us to replace the bridge now and make mass transit an integral part of the project from day one. As the new bridge is being constructed, I’ll work with the state to develop a new east-west mass transit link across the I-287 corridor, because improving our mass transit infrastructure will make Westchester County a better place to start a business and raise a family. I strongly support this necessary project.


CASTELLI, BOB Party: R, Ind Biographical Info: City/Town of Residence: Goldens Bridge, New York Current Political Office: State Assemblyman, 93rd District Education: Harvard University Kennedy School of Government SUNY Empire State College Palmer College Prior Civic Service: Lewisboro Town Councilman 2000-2004 Professor at Iona College, Adjunct at CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice, Marist College 21-year member, New York State Police United States Army veteran

Campaign Web Site: www.bobcastelli.com Campaign Email: [email protected] Campaign Phone: (914) 437-9708 Home Address: 4 New King Street, Suite 125, White Plains, NY 10604 Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: 1. Jobs. This includes ending our reputation as the most business unfriendly State and ending the infamous dysfunction and corruption in Albany 2. Cut taxes. Having already passed the property tax cap and cut the middle-class tax rate to the lowest rate in 58 years, more needs to be done, specifically, substantive short/long term mandate relief 3. Cut spending. We spend too much and get too little in return. The goal is to return fiscal responsibility to strengthen the economy and create jobs Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Pass a New NY Jobs Plan including: * Save 200k small businesses $65 million through a 20% corporate tax cut * Increase the minimum wage and ensure that wage rises when the cost of living increases * Provide a 10% personal income tax credit for 800k small businesses saving them $120 million * Implement an innovative new tax financing plan to free up investment capital * Tax credits for each new job a small business creates * Legislation to protect families from skyrocketing tuition costs Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I am the cosponsor on the moratorium against hydrofracking. Unless science can prove that this process is safe, the gas should remain in the ground until that time. Issues such as a health assessment of hydrofracking, municipal home rule, and processing of fracking fluid have yet to be answered satisfactorily, and must be, before the state moves forward. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer.


A: Having already passed strict new ethics laws, we still need independent redistricting, term limits, and campaign finance reform that will restore openness and transparency to our state government. We must overhaul the system from top to bottom and consider all options so that we can leave the politics behind, and focus on public service. Q: Transportation: Please explain your position on the Tappan Zee Bridge project and and the reasons for your position. A: The facts are clear regarding the Tappan Zee: It needs to be rebuilt without any further delay. It is time to proceed with Governor Cuomo’s plan to build a new bridge that will serve our region’s transportation needs into the next century. We have talked about this for more than fifteen years; the time for talking is over, it’s time to build the bridge.

NY Assembly District 94 District 94 – Somers, Yorktown

Candidates (choose 1): FALK, ANDREW I.

Party: D, WF Biographical Info: City/Town of Residence: Patterson, NY Current Political Office: None Education: J.D, Touro College; B.A., University at Buffalo, Political Science Prior Civic Service: Coach, Little League (2008-2012) Putnam Country Health Department Medical Reserve Corp., NYS Certified EMT, 2002-04 (currently not certified) Campaign Web Site: www.andrewfalk2012.com Campaign Email: [email protected] Campaign Phone: (845) 402-8166 Home Address: 21 Carolyn Way, Patterson, NY 12563-2940 Home Phone: 845-878-3354 Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: Jobs, tax relief, economic growth Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: I have a plan for tax credits for businesses that create new jobs and undertake capital improvements for expansion. The private sector is where the growth is going to be and we need to make New York a more business friendly environment. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I do not favor fracturing at all. Until the oil and gas companies are willing to disclose the chemicals they are injecting into the ground, we should not be considering opening up New York's lands for this process. We have a duty to


protect our citizens, and the unknown risks are too high; therefore, we have to err on the side of public health. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: Public financing of campaigns would take away the potential for special interest groups to control the electoral process. Our communities would benefit from a more diverse group of candidates, if it were not such a financial burden to fund a campaign. Q: Transportation: Please explain your position on the Tappan Zee Bridge project and and the reasons for your position. A: The Tappan Zee Bridge was designed with a limited lifespan, and we can spend billions of dollars in perpetuity repairing it, but it will never be a better bridge. Or we can move to the future with a bridge that will allow us to grow economically, and have the ability to add a mass transit feature down the road. KATZ, STEPHEN

Party: R, C, IN Biographical Info: City/Town of Residence: Mohegan Lake Current Political Office: NYS Assemblyman Education: B.S. Cornell University (76) VMD Universityof Pennsylvania (84) Prior Civic Service: Incumbent Assemblyman 99th District 1st term Campaign Web Site: www.Katz4NY.com

Campaign Email: [email protected] Home Address: PO Box 1169 Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: bring jobs into my District and State by reducing taxes, regulations, fees, permits, lag time thereby making NY business friendly once again. end unfunded mandates that are strangling our counties by adopting the NYSAC Mandate Relief recommendations streamline the legislative process and saving the tax payers over $100 million per year, Returning honesty, integrity and ethics to Albany Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Begin environmentally safe hydrofracking using organic, biodegradable solvents and return the fracking water into drinkable water again. Both are now possible.Hdrofracking will produce upwards of 100,000 jobs, including ancillary and support businesses. It will generate upwards of $1 billion dollars or more per year loosen credit for the small business owner.Reduce taxes, reduce regulations, permits, fees and make NY an attractive place for business' to move here or start here.


Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I favor high volume horizontal hydrofracturing in NY.See Q2 for my response. We would legislate approved biodegradable solvents, and return used water back to potability. I would legislate the use of NY companies and workers for the overwhelming majority of the project Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I have a bill in that would require all candidates to have a clearly marked direct link to the Board of Election list of your campaign contributors on the home page of their websites. I KNOW that the only way we can respect our 1st amend. rights, level the playing field between incumbent and challenger, wealthy candidate and middle class, is to remove private funds from campaigns. I am studying different modesl and will glean the best ideas from each and then put forth my recommendations. Q: Transportation: Please explain your position on the Tappan Zee Bridge project and and the reasons for your position. A: Hopefully we will receive financial help from the Federal Gov as asked for by the Governor. I am in favor of building the bridge with room to ultimately complete a mass transportation component ready to be constructed. Currently the proposed bridge will have a separate lane for buses.

NY Assembly District 95 District 95 – City of Peekskill, Cortlandt, Ossining, and parts of Putnam County


GALEF, SANDRA R.

Party: D, IN Biographical Info: City/Town of Residence: OSSINING Current Political Office: New York State Assemblywoman 90th AD Education: Masters of Education,University of Virginia-1965,Bachelor of Science,Purdue University-1962,White Plains High School-1958 Prior Civic Service: Westchester County Legislator-Minority Leader,FormerCo-President Briarcliff/Ossining League of

Women Voters, Former President of United Way of No.Westchester,Host of two Cable Television Shows Campaign Web Site: www.sandygalef.com Campaign Email: [email protected] Campaign Phone: (914) 762-5050 Home Address: 44 Orchard Drive,Ossining,NY 10562


Home Phone: 914-762-5050 Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: Continue our work to lower the tax burden for all New Yorkers and to push for circuit breaker legislation to give even more tax relief;continue to remove mandates and unnecessary regulations on schools,local governments,and businesses;continue to consolidate and share services;advance legislation to protect our health,our enviroment,and our safety;develop more energy resources,encourage renewable power,promote energy conservation,and help businesses create jobs to be competitive in the market. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Continuing to lower the tax burden on employees,employers,and residents is critical.Need to relieve unnecesary regulations on businesses,encourage them to hire unemployed workers by giving tax credits,enhance the production of power to lower costs,develop even more programs to bring solar companies,wind providers to state to create new jobs;commit more state dollars to the construction of roads,bridges,and other infrastructure,eliminate entirely the MTA payroll tax on employers. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I toured Bradford County,PA and learned firsthand the problems of Hydrofracturing. I voted for a moratorium on the process as well as completing a health study before allowing this process in NY that can impact the quality of our water resources and residents'health. No regulations for the disposal of the chemicals in the water have been adopted nor the inequities rising from the sale of the gas drilling rights and mortgage complications with sale of property.Until all questions are addressed,No Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: Our democracy depends on everyone participating in the election process. Too much money is spent in campaigns,especially by special interests with large contributions that can tilt the legislative process their way.We need campaign finance reform that lowers contribution limits,allows small-dollar matching funds,brings more transparency and real enforcement of the rules to the process.Fines should be raised to compel compliance.Political parties should no longer have hidden housekeeping accounts Q: Transportation: Please explain your position on the Tappan Zee Bridge project and and the reasons for your position. A: I support the Governor's proposal to build a new bridge with the structure allowing for mass transit options in the future when financial resources are available.Action must be taken now with no more delays so that federal financial help will be forthcoming and we can assure a safe bridge. The other benefit is the creation of good jobs in the region.The Tappan Zee Bridge is a key resource for the Hudson Valley and the economy of our whole state and will provide us with a prosperous future.


IZZARELLI, KIM Party: R, C Biographical Info: City/Town of Residence: Village of Briarcliff Manor, Town of Ossining, NY Current Political Office: None Education: BBA, American International College, Accounting; MS, University of Hartford; 2013 Candidate, MSEd Educational Leadership, Pace University Prior Civic Service: Trustee, Briarcliff Public Library; Audit

Committee Member, COMPACT Committee, Briarcliff UFSD; Town of Ossining Citizen's Finance Advisory Committee Member; Briarcliff Affordable Housing Task Force. Campaign Web Site: www.Kimfor95th.com Campaign Email: [email protected] Campaign Phone: (914) 471-1635 Home Address: 12 Deer Tree Lane, Briarcliff, NY 10510-1751 Home Phone: 914.471.1635 Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: Real Property Tax Reform, Reduce Unfunded Mandates and Term Limits for Legislators Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Repeal New York's Triborough Amendment. Forty-nine other states do not have it, but we do. Its repeal would provide our school districts and municipalities the leverage they need to control budgets, thereby stabilizing property taxes and stimulating our local economy. We also need legislation to allow creation of public-private partnerships in New York to release capital infusion - needed to rebuild our schools, bridges, maintain highways and infrastructure. Put the building trades to work NOW Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I will NOT favor Hydraulic Fracturing until I am assured that its developers will create, build and maintain storm water structures that can safely process the run-off from fracturing. Taxpayers should not be expected to build this infrastructure while energy companies reap profits. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: In terms of Internet accessibility and transparency, New York's data reporting (and presentation of state reporting data, in general) is still in the dark ages. Every website should be easy to navigate or find information without completing numerous form fill menus. I would like to see more web-based


applications for ordinary citizens to evaluate candidate donors and expenses, as well as the ability to cross-reference PACs and donors. Q: Transportation: Please explain your position on the Tappan Zee Bridge project and and the reasons for your position. A: I would like to see the new TZB built with a mass-transit option and funded through a Public-Private Partnership. If a project like this is only build once in 100 years, it should be designed and built for the future. We will waste a precious year or more waiting to find out if federal funds are available -- and I highly doubt we will receive the full amount.

NY Assembly District 96 Description: New district: Includes Rockland County: Towns of Haverstraw, Clarkstown, and the northeastern part of the Town of Ramapo.


Kenneth P. Zebrowski

Party: DEM, WF, IND Questions: The Candidate did not respond

NY Assembly District 97 New district: Includes Rockland County: Towns of Orangetown and the southern part of Ramapo.


Joseph T. Gravagna

Party: REP, CON, IND Biographical Info: Campaign Web Site: www.josephgravagna.com

Questions: The Candidate did not respond

Ellen C. Jaffee Party: DEM, WF Biographical Info: Parties: Democratic Party Working Families Party


Campaign Web Site: [email protected] Education: BA Brooklyn College MS Fordham University 60 credits beyond Masters Experience and Qualifications: Chair,AssemblyTask Force on Women’s Issues; independent, effective leader; impressive number of bills signed into law, ie. early breast cancer detection; anti HIV/AIDs medicine for assault victims, equal job access for women. Champion for middle class families: sponsored bills to lower taxes, increase funding for public schools & community colleges to assure quality education, protect the environment, create job & business development programs. Former County Legislator, Suffern Village Trustee. Key Endorsements: • NY League of Conservation Voters • Planned Parenthood Advocates of NY • 32BJ SEIU • NARAL Pro-Choice NY • Council of School Supervisors and Administrators • NYS Nurses Association • NYS United Teachers (NYSUT) • Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA) • AFL-CIO • Teamsters Joint Council • NYS Public Employees Federation (PEF) • Empire State Pride Agenda • AFSCME • TWU Local 100 • Eleanor Roosevelt Legacy • Bridge and Tunnel Officers Benevolent Association Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: • Property tax reform; increase state funding for education, quality early childhood education & Pre-K; mandate relief; tax cap issues • Job creation/economic development for sustainable communities; small business incentives, investment in infrastructure ; • Open and transparent government, campaign finance and ethics reform. • environmental protection initiatives; • Increase minimum wage • Reproductive Health Act. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: On Assembly’s Economic Development committee, Ellen knows attracting & keeping businesses is the path to job creation. Passed bills to enhance tax credits, incentives for businesses to spur job growth; held mtgs with REDC & state agencies to assist local businesses; fought to end MTA tax; Advocate of green technology bills which create jobs & sustainable energy. Backs law to widen access to capital for small businesses and companies with cutting-edge technologies. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: As DEC considers hydraulic fracturing,we must enact comprehensive legislation to protect drinking water & public health. Poorly regulated gas drilling poses many threats to communities, potentially introducing millions of gallons of contaminated wastewater into waterways; leaks and spills of toxic drilling fluid could contaminate ground & surface water, methane in residential wells & drawing down freshwater supplies for use in drilling;air quality a concern also. Sponsor: A.7013/A. 10234/A.3245 Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer.


A: We must advance policies which make elections more fair, transparent, accountable to the public. Supported bills to publicly finance all state elections, increase campaign finance enforcement, disclose independent expenditures in a meaningful way, transform the way that campaigns for the office of the State Comptroller are financed and overseen. When Public financing is fair and accountable to the public, private fundraising in campaigning will take a back seat to issues & ideas in NY elections

NY Assembly District 98 New district: Includes Orange County: Towns of Greenville, Minisink, Warwick, Deerpark, including Port Jervis, Monroe and Tuxedo. Rockland County: Northwestern part of the Town of Ramapo.


Gerard T. McQuade, Jr. Party: DEM, WF Questions: The Candidate did not respond

Ann G. Rabbitt Party: REP, CON, IND Biographical Info: Campaign Web Site: twitter.com/annierabbitt Questions: The Candidate did not respond

NY Assembly District 99 New district: Includes Orange County: Towns of Goshen, Hamptonburgh, New Windsor, Cornwall, Blooming Grove, Goshen, Chester, Cornwall, Woodbury, Highlands, and all of Wawayanda except the City of Middletown. Rockland County: Town of Stony Point.


Kyle P. Roddey


Party: REP, CON, IND Biographical Info: Campaign Web Site: www.kyleroddey.com Questions: The candidate did not respond

James G. Skoufis Party: DEM, WF Biographical Info: Parties: Democratic and Working Families Campaign Web Site: www.skoufisforassembly.com Education: Monroe-Woodbury High School - 2005; George

Washington University - B.A. 2008; Columbia University - M.A. 2009 Experience and Qualifications: I am the only candidate in the race with the full-time private and public sector experience to understand the challenges of our district. As a project manager, I know what it's like to meet deadlines and work under pressure towards a goal. As a councilman, I've taken leadership roles in my community, including spearheading the local relief efforts after Hurricane Irene, all the while keeping taxes down and being a fiscal conservative. Key Endorsements: AFL-CIO, Union of Police Association, NARAL Pro-Choice, County Legislators Roxanne Donnery, Matt Turnbull, and Chris Eachus. Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: 1) Jobs. We need to get people back to work and I will make it my number one priority to encourage small businesses to open up shop in Orange and Rockland Counties. 2) Increase the minimum wage, oppose pay raises for legislators, and repeal the job-killing MTA Tax. 3) Work to end preferential treatment towards Kiryas Joel. As a Woodbury Councilman, I have voted to sue KJ a number of times because I believe we should all be playing by the same rules. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: I will push to offer incentives for small businesses to open in or relocate to the Hudson Valley and, likewise, penalize those companies who ship our jobs overseas. As a Councilman, I voted to join a lawsuit against the job-killing MTA Tax and will fight for its full repeal in the Assembly. We should be encouraging small business growth, not imposing new taxes to stifle it. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: If and when the time comes that fracking is proven, beyond a reasonable doubt, to be safe, it should be permitted in New York. I have not yet been convinced it is safe, however, and believe in many cases it proves a danger to our water supply.


Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: We need to take the money out of politics and offer voters cleaner elections. I support campaign finance reform, including, but not limited to, lower contribution limits by corporations and individuals alike.

NY Assembly District 100 New district: Includes Sullivan County: All except the Town of Neversink. Orange County: Towns of Mount Hope and Wallkill, and the City of Middletown.


Aileen M. Gunther

Party: DEM, WF, IND Biographical Info: Parties: D, WF, I Campaign Web Site: www.aileengunther.com Education: Attended Orange County Community College and SUNY New Paltz Experience and Qualifications: Elected to the NYS Assembly in

November 2003. Key Endorsements: NYSNA, AFL-CIO,1199,NYSUT,Laborers Local 17,TWU Local 100,CSEA, SEIU Local 200, CWA Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: Education Mandate Relief Access to Health Care Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: First and foremost, we have to continue to support small businesses. In the 98th District, that meant fighting the MTA Payroll tax, and continuing to reduce state spending and fight unfunded mandates. In addition, we must continue to support community colleges and support programs that provide training for high-demand jobs, such as those in health care and science and technology. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I am opposed to hydrofracking . Water is our most precious resource, and we also cannot predict the impact it will have on property values in the district I represent. In addition, the studies regarding impacts to the environment and the health of our citizens have not been concluded. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I have supported campaign finance reform legislation in the past and would continue to do so.


Gary D. Linton Party: REP, CON


NY Assembly District 101 New district: Includes Oneida County: Towns of New Hartford and Paris. Herkimer County: Towns of Litchfield, Winfield, Columbia, German Flats and Warren. Otsego County: Towns of Springfield, Middlefield, Westford and Maryland. Delaware County: Towns of Davenport, Meridith Delhi, Hamden, Bovina and Andes. Sullivan County: Town of Neversink. Ulster County: Towns of Hardenburg, Denning, Wawarsing and Shawangunk. Orange County: Towns of Crawford and Montgomery.


Daniel R. Carter Party: DEM Questions: The Candidate did not respond

Claudia Tenney Party: REP, CON, IND Biographical Info: Parties: Republican, Conservative, Independence Campaign Web Site: www.tenney4ny.com Education: B.A. Colgate University, J.D. University of Cincinnati, Admitted to the Bar in New York, Florida, Connecticut and all Federal Courts including the U.S. Supreme Court

Experience and Qualifications: Attorney at Law, Business Owner (current company employs 80), Chief of Staff and Legal Counsel to former Assemblyman Key Endorsements: Republican, Conservative, Independence Parties, Central New York Labor Council and all affiliates, UAW, UMWA, NYS Deputies Association and many others Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: 1. Medicaid reform and mandate relief for local governments and schools. 2. Reforming the school aid formula and our approach to education. 3. Real and fair pension reform. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: 1. Eliminate wasteful and unnecessary regulations on business owners and farmers 2. Reduce the personal income tax 3. Focus on getting people back to work by modifying the unemployment system to allow partial employment so


that people will be rewarded for working. 4. Basically, make New York more attractive through lower taxes,less regulation and not solely through government handouts. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: 1. Until and inless the Governor gives DEC and local governments the necessary personnel to monitor high volume, Hydraulic fracturing, we do not have the resources in place to safely regulate this industry. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: 1. Enforce the laws we already have. All the new regulations are going to do nothing to stop dishonest people from abusing the system. Prosecute the ones who are cheating and put some teeth into the laws.

NY Assembly District 102 New district: Includes Greene and Schoharie Counties. Otsego County: Towns of Cherry Valley, Roseboom, Decatur and Worcester. Delaware County: Towns of Harpersfield, Kortright, Stamford, Roxbury and Middletown. Ulster County: Town of Saugerties. Albany County: Towns of Rensselaerville, Westerlo and Coeymans. Columbia County: Towns of Stuyvesant and Stockport.


Peter D. Lopez

Party: REP, CON, IND Biographical Info: Questions: The Candidate did not respond

James A. Miller Party: DEM Biographical Info:



NY Assembly District 103 New district: Includes Ulster County: Towns of Shandaken, Woodstock, Olive, Hurley, Kingston, Ulster, Marbletown, Rosendale, Esopus, New Paltz, Rochester, Gardiner, Plattekill and the City of Kingston. Dutchess County: Towns of Red Hook and Rhinebeck.


Kevin A. Cahill Party: DEM, WF, IND Questions: The Candidate did not respond

NY Assembly District 104 New district: Includes Ulster County: Towns of Lloyd and Marlborough. Orange County: Town of Newburgh and the City of Newburgh. Dutchess County: Cities of Beacon and Poughkeepsie.


Christine M. Bello

Party: REP, CON Biographical Info: Parties: Republican and Conservative parties Education: SUNY Farmingdale- Registered Dental Hygienist Experience and Qualifications: 2008-2011 served on the Newburgh City Council Small business owner since 1979 Key Endorsements: Republican and Conservative Party

endorsements Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: My top three priorities would be: 1. Job creation, eager to explore the pros and cons of fracking. 2. Lower taxes 3.Accountability in school budgets


Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: The state could strengthen the state economy by relaxing the regulations on businesses to encourage businesses to open. Also overhauling the State Education system to insure that waste is eliminated. Exploring the idea of fracking. If it could be done safely and without harm to the environment it would pump millions of dollars into our economy, creating many jobs. Developing our own resources is the right thing to do. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: It's my understanding that many of the fracking issues are currently in the courts. We need more understanding of this form of energy development by way of safety and environmental concerns. As a last resort this is an issue that could be put on a public referendum. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: We clearly need campaign finance reform in NY. it should not be so expensive to run for public office. There are many good, decent, intelligent people who would make great candidates but can't afford to run for public office. Unless you cater to special interest groups who finance your campaign and ultimately buy your vote, it is very difficult to raise the money to run for public office.

Frank K. Skartados

Party: DEM, WF Questions: The Candidate did not respond

NY Assembly District 105 New district: Includes Dutchess County: Towns of Washington, La Grange, Union Vale, Dover, Wappinger, East Fishkill, Beekman, Pawling and Fishkill, except for the City of Beacon.



Paul F. Curran Party: DEM, WF, GRN Biographical Info: Parties: Democratic, Working Families,Green Campaign Web Site: www.curran4assembly.com Education: Fordham Prep (Bronx NY) Columbia University, BS, Mechanical Engineering Marist College, Masters in Business Administration

Experience and Qualifications: -30 year career in private industry in the energy sector. Small business owner developing wind and solar energy projects on landfills and brownfield worldwide. Has received several business and environmental awards. Taxpayer Resident of Southern Dutchess County for over 30 years. Chairs the Beekman Budget Oversight Committee- Only Town in Dutchess with a negative tax growth rate. Wife Brenda is a Dutchess County native; two teenage children. Licensed NYS Professional Engineer Key Endorsements: Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, NYS Teachers, Planned Parenthood, Assemblyman Frank Skartados, Assemblyman Kevin Cahill, Beekman Highway Superintendent Anthony Coviello, Beekman Supervisor Matthew Kennedy, Beekman Town Councilman Ron Mangeri, Dover Supervisor Ryan Courtien, Dutchess County Legislator Alison MacAvery, Norman L. Polanski Jr. Former Mayor City of Lackawanna, Team Beekman Coalition, Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: -Moving forward the economic redevelopment projects that are already proposed by private industries but require NYS approvals. My 30 years of private sector business experience will be an asset. -Making government think and act more like a business. That requires focus on the desired customer (new businesses) and streamlining approvals and budgets. Small business owners like me, need this. - Working with Gov Cuomo to improve the efficiency of NYS and our relationships with towns and counties. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: New York needs to say yes to proposed responsible development in a more timely fashion. In Dover, a $1.4 Billion clean power plant was proposed in 2008, and the State has taken four years of study. I have built this type of facility. Responsible development is good for the environment. We must also look at the cost of government at all levels,including consolidation of government services. I chair my town’s budget comwhere we have had no increase in taxes for the past 3 years. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Hydraulic fracturing has been used for decades in NYS. It has never been used in Dutchess and will never be used here as we have no natural gas


formations. The price of natural gas is currently at historically low levels, and there is unlikely to be new exploration as a result. I favor extending the NYS moratorium while appropriate ground water and waste water standards can be developed by the EPA. I favor clarity with potential developers that this will be revisited at a future date certain. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: There is too much money in politics, but I do not favor the use of taxpayer money as a replacement. I favor limits on the amount of corporate funds that can be used in NYS campaigns. I favor the streamlining of our electoral systems by allowing towns and counties to shift all elections to even numbered years, and by allowing the appointment of replacements for vacancies. We have too many primaries and special elections where very few people participate but which cost significant amounts.

Kieran Michael Lalor Party: REP, CON, IND Biographical Info: Parties: Republican Conservative Independence Campaign Web Site: www.kml2012.com Education: Pace Law School, JD (2007) Providence College, BA Political Science (1998) John Jay High School (1994) Experience and Qualifications: Founder of KML Strategies, LLC a Dutchess County-based consulting firm that provides business

development, research and public relations services to publicly traded corporations, non-profits and small businesses. American Defense Systems, Inc., Staff Attorney. Straus & Boies, LLP, Paralegal. Our Lady of Lourdes High School, Social Studies Teacher. Served as US Marine Corps infantryman in Iraq, Kuwait, Norway, Japan, Ukraine and stateside. 2008 GOP Candidate, US House in Dist. NY-19 Key Endorsements: Dutchess County Independence Party. Congressman Michael Grimm (R,NY-13). 2010 Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Carl Paladino. Former Dutchess County Legislator Robert Sears (R-LaGrange). Dutchess County Legislator Joe Incoronato. Dutchess County TEA Party. Freedom’s Defense Fund. Former Congressman and Truth in Government Founder Joe DioGuardi. SEAL TEAM 6 Commander Ryan Zinke. Citizens United. Veterans Victory Fund. Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: Priority-Job Creation: My central focus in Albany will be to make New York a more business-friendly state to create jobs and opportunities for New York workers and entrepreneurs. Priority-Tax Relief: To grow the New York economy people must be able to keep more of their own money and government must get smaller and more efficient. Priority-Reform: Too many elected officials spend taxpayer money for their own benefit. This must stop if we are to regain our fiscal footing.


Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Stop Meddling Bureaucrats from Smothering Job Creators: We must tame abusive government agencies that harass small business owners solely to generate government revenues with fees and unwarranted fines. We must reduce state and local, spending, borrowing, fees and assessments by focusing on core services, consolidating purchasing and taking advantage of technological efficiencies. Schools must refocus on core subjects rather than social engineering and political correctness. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I support harnessing the state’s energy resources which will create jobs for New York workers and revenue for all levels of government. New York must have a can-do approach to safely harness our natural resources. We can help our country become energy independent and enjoy the economic boom other states with natural gas are currently enjoying. Reasonable regulations based on scientific evidence rather than on hysteria and ideology should be instituted. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: Greater transparency is needed. Voters and the press should have a user friendly system that allows them to see who gives to a candidate and how much. The press should fulfill their duty and thoroughly investigate instances where there appears to be a conflict of interest or a quid pro quo between a lawmaker and donor. Free speech rights must never be abridged.

NY Assembly District 106 New district: Includes Columbia County: Towns of Ghent, Claverack, Germantown, Livingston, Clermont, Taghkanic, Copake, Ancram and Greenport, including the City of Hudson. Dutchess County: Towns of Milan, Pine Plains, North East, Amenia, Stanford, Clinton, Pleasant Valley, Hyde Park and Poughkeepsie (but not the City of Poughkeepsie).


Didi Barrett

Party: DEM, WF Biographical Info: Parties: Democratic Party, Working Families Party Campaign Web Site: www.didibarrett.com Education: B.A.-UCLA, M.A.-NYU

Experience and Qualifications: Elected to the NY State Assembly in March 2012 special election. Member of the Committees on Aging, Agriculture and Veterans Affairs. Longtime leader in the not for profit community in such


organizations as Sprout Creek Farm, Anderson Foundation for Autism, Millbrook Education Foundation, Northeast Dutchess Fund of BTCF, Dutchess Girls Collaborative, American Folk Art Museum, New York Women's Foundation, Girls Inc of NYC, Planned Parenthood of NYC. Key Endorsements: 1199 SEIU SEIU Local 200 CSEA CWA NYS AFL-CIO NARAL-NY PPANY NYSUT Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 21 NY League of Conservation Voters EMILY'S List Eleanor's Legacy Dutchess Democratic Women's Caucus Dutchess County Democratic Committee Columbia County Democratic Committee Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? (Maximum of 500 characters) A: My top three priorities are to continue my work on: 1) Economic development which includes supporting small businesses, promoting the agricultural and tourism sectors as economic engines and creating and keeping jobs that stay in the region. 2) To reduce the tax burden on our families and businesses, bring relief from unfunded mandates and get Albany working for us here in the Hudson Valley. 3) Ensure that all our residents feel safe in their homes, neighborhoods and schools. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? (Maximum of 500 characters) A: The Governor's Regional Economic Development Councils have been effective as a motivator and to encourage regional thinking. In the Hudson Valley, I would like to see more support for agriculture, food and farm related businesses, including farm-breweries, food hubs and agri-tourism. To make the state more attractive to new businesses and to create jobs, New York must look to reducing taxes, eliminating excessive regulations and to investing in infrastructure. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? (Maximum of 500 characters) A: While I believe in diversifying our sources of energy, I could not support high-volume hydraulic fracturing unless I am completely convinced that it would not have an adverse effect on our environment, including our water, air, soil, wildlife, the temperature of the earth which impacts our streams and waterways,etc. I support legislation which passed in the Assembly to adopt a moratorium, to require hydraulic fracturing fluid to be classified as hazardous waste and to preserve local control. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. (Maximum of 500 characters) A: I believe that elections should be fair, transparent, and accountable to the electorate. I feel strongly that New York State should study best practices and best thinking and enact comprehensive campaign finance reform that includes meaningful disclosure of independent expenditure and provides for the resources to make the regulations enforceable.


David Byrne Party: REP, CON, IND Biographical Info: Parties: Republican Conservative Independence Campaign Web Site: www.Dave4NY.com Education: Red Hook High School United State Military Academy at West Point Experience and Qualifications: Served as an Army Officer in

Iraq and Kuwait Served on Milan Town Board One of first reps in NY to be certified in Solar Electric Technical Sales Real Estate Business Owner Husband and father of three children Key Endorsements: National Federation of Independent Businesses Unshackle Upstate DC County Exec Marc Molinaro CC Clerk Holly Tanner DC Sheriff Butch Anderson CC Sherif David Harrison Jr. Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: I will work to: Make New York more livable for families, senior citizens, and young people by lowering property taxes through the reduction and elimination of unfunded state mandates that siphon important resources away from local governments and schools. Improve the state’s economy and create jobs through the support of small businesses by reducing regulations and taxes. Reform Albany by promoting accountability to the People, selfless service, integrity, courage, and term limits. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: We must reduce costly regulations and excessive taxes on job creators and individuals. By making the state a more attractive place for businesses, we will create long-term employment opportunities that will get New Yorkers back to work and help restore their confidence in our economy. A friendly business climate will also lay a stronger foundation for a more robust economy that will generate revenues for services we need – without raising taxes. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I believe that the environmental hazards of high-volume horizontal drilling are too great, and represent the wrong direction for a state that has pledged to meet 45 percent of its electricity needs through renewable energy by 2015. Instead of hydrofracking, New York should invest more in safer and cleaner forms of energy and the creation of advanced battery technology to support the types of low-cost power sources needed to fuel our economy. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: As Assemblyman, I would work to create greater transparency in campaign finances by requiring the identification of every donation made to a campaign. I


would also sponsor legislation to freeze the campaign accounts of all public officials under indictment to ensure that political donations are not used for personal expenses, especially when those expenditures are aimed at keeping a corrupt individual out of prison.

NY Assembly District 107 New district: Includes Washington County: Towns of Cambridge and White Creek. Rensselaer County: All except the Town of North Greenbush, the City of Rensselaer, and a portion of Troy (i.e., the southernmost part of the city, plus an extension on the western side of the city that runs northward up to an approximate midway point between the northern and southern municipal boundaries). Columbia County: Towns of Kinderhook, Chatham, New Lebanon, Canaan, Austerlitz and Hillsdale.


Steven F. McLaughlin Party: REP, CON, IND Biographical Info: Parties: Endorsed Republican, Conservative and Independence candidate. Campaign Web Site: www.Steve4NY.com Education: Florida Institute of Technology (commercial and instrument airplane ratings), Arizona State University (MS, Finance), University of Phoenix (MBA).

Experience and Qualifications: Steve began his aviation career here in Albany, landing his first flying job with Mall Airways. He started a small lawn care business in order to make extra money to pay his student loans. His next job was with another commuter airline, Brockway Air, which became Metro Air Northeast. That airline shut down during the first Gulf War. Steve then flew as a corporate pilot for Key Bank. From there, Steve went to the major airlines and flew the Airbus and Boeing 737 for America West and USAirways. After 9/11, the airline industry was in chaos and Steve was laid off along with the bottom 36% of the seniority list of USAirways. Steve has compiled over 12,000 hours of flight time (approximately 1½ years) with a perfect safety record. Landing on his feet, Steve entered the mortgage banking industry with Citizens Bank and through hard work and dedication within one year was in the Presidents club and ranked in the top ten percent of all loan officers. Steve enjoyed guiding his clients through the biggest purchase of their lives and helping them pursue their dream of home ownership. In addition to his duties of representing the people and small businesses in the Assembly district, Steve works in the private sector for Monolith Solar. Questions:


Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: Creating private sector jobs, making New York more business-friendly for business owners and entrepreneurs, and support policies and legislation that will cut taxes for all New Yorkers are my top three priorities. We are the highest taxed state in the nation and most unfriendly state to do business in. Albany needs more legislators with strong backgrounds in the private sector who have the experience in helping businesses grow. We cannot support a public sector without a healthy private sector. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Lower taxes on New York manufacturers to improve their competitiveness which will in turn help them create thousands of new jobs across the state, cut taxes for our small business job-creators, provide energy tax cuts for businesses across New York State, streamline the process and cut regulations for entrepreneurs to open their business. Our state agencies should be working tirelessly to help New York’s business owners succeed and thrive, not throwing up roadblocks. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: The state should proceed to allow hydrofracking when we are comfortable, that it can be done scientifically and environmentally safely. I believe in America. I believe in American energy and American ingenuity and I find it un-American and defeatist to say we "can't" do something. There are currently 14,000 gas wells in New York State, most of which have been hydrofracked. The difference is they are not horizontally fracked but they are indeed hydrofracked. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: While I do not support a system of publicly funded campaigns in New York State, it is clear that the campaign finance system must be reformed. The current campaign environment, with weak regulations and many loopholes, allow the wealthiest individuals and special interest groups to unfairly influence the political process. A candidate should be considered based on their policies and abilities, rather than the amount of money they are able raise.

Cheryl Roberts

Party: DEM, WF Biographical Info: Parties: Democrat and Working Families Party Campaign Web Site: www.cherylroberts2012.com Education: BS Environmental Planning and Design - Cook College Rutgers Univ 1985; JD Rutgers Law School - Camden 1988 Experience and Qualifications: Municipal and environmental

attorney with 20 years of experience; local judge for 8 years; US Congressional Staff person for 5 years; Corporation Counsel for the City of Hudson for 8 years


advising Mayor, Legislature and City boards on variety of municipal and enviornmental issues. Key Endorsements: Columbia County Democratic Committee; Rensselaer County Democratic Committee; Working Families Party; U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, Planned Parenthood Advocates of New York, New York League of Conservation Voters Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: My top three priorities are: increasing the minimum wage while helping businesses and farms thrive, lessening the tax burden on the middle class, and ensuring women get equal pay for equal work. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: We need to make NYS friendly to small businesses and support local farms. Both Small business and local farms are the backbone of the local economy in the 107th Assembly District. Eliminating obstacles to small business by reducing administrative and tax burdens will help small business thrive in the region and add jobs to the workforce. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I do not support hydraulic fracturing and was part of the legal team that successfully drafted a local law that banned this activity within the Town of Middlefield. We also successfully defended the law against a legal challenge in court by the gas industry. At this time, I do not believe the practice can be done safely. At a minimum, legislation should be adopted lifting the exemptions currently enjoyed by this industry on its hazardous waste management. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I think there should be public funding of campaigns with limitations on amounts spent.

NY Assembly District 108 New district: Includes Saratoga County: Town of Waterford. Albany County: Cities of Cohoes, Green Island, Watervliet and the northeastern part of the City of Albany. Rensselaer County: the City of Rensselaer, the Town of North Greenbush, and a portion of Troy (i.e., the southernmost part of the city, plus an extension on the western side of the city that runs northward up to an approximate midway point between the northern and southern municipal boundaries).


James Campbell


Party: LIB Biographical Info: Parties: Libertarian Campaign Web Site: www.facebook.com/jcassembly Education: ITT Tech,HVCC,Excelsior College -- Accounting,Network & Business Administration

Experience and Qualifications: I am a taxpayer of NY state, and looking for work. No one else is more in tune to the dysfunction of this state than one of the high % of unemployed professionals Key Endorsements: Capital Area Chapter of the UCC Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: I would repeal or stop the 45% increase in Thruway Authority toll hikes on commercial trucks. That will trickle down to ordinary taxpayers where cost of goods such as food,clothing and gas will increase. I will support income coming INTO the state rather than the 45 billion that has left, by support hydrofracking and MMA. We have closed our doors for business for way too long. Be opposed to ANY increase in Legislative pay and will be a vocal supporter of doing away with political pensions Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Stop regulating every single aspect of business. We have the WORST small business atmosphere in the United States. Lower small business tax and make government less intrusive to entrepreneurship. Like I stated before, I would also advocate fracking and bringing MMA into NY State, bringing in billions of revenue. But foremost, government should keep "hands off" the economy, the free market will regulate itself decreasing the period between ebbs and flows. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Yes, and we need to stop dragging our feet as other states have tons of studies already stating fracking is safe and we have the largest source of natural gas in the WORLD, right here in New York. What troubles me, are the media reports from TX that have stated a rise in breast cancer, and it was debunked as untrue. We need to stop catering to powerful environmental lobbyists and put New Yorkers to work! Young adults are on a exodus of epic proportions Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: There is no reason we, the taxpayers should be paying millions in order to get junk mail from politicians. Laws like McCain-Feingold only help to keep corrupt officials in power. Contributions should be given freely by people and groups that share the view of the candidate. Laws that restrict voluntary financing of campaigns should be repealed


John T. McDonald, III Party: DEM, IND Biographical Info: Parties: Democrat, Independence Campaign Web Site: www.mcdonaldforassembly.com Education: High School - Keveny Memorial Academy, College - Albany College of Pharmacy Experience and Qualifications: Mayor of the City of Cohoes 2000- Present, Pharmacist and Owner Marra's Pharmacy 1985-

Present. Former President New York State Conference of Mayors, Member of the New York State Workforce Investment Board, Chairman of Riverspark, Chairman of the Capital District Transportation Committee, President of the Cohoes Local Development Corporation, Chairman of the Cohoes Industrial Development Agency Key Endorsements: New York League of Conservation Voters, Cohoes Democratic Committee, Green Island Democratic Committee, Watervliet Democratic Committee, Waterford Democratic Committee, Rensselaer County Democratic Committee, Rensselaer City Democratic Committee, Troy City Democratic Committee Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: First is to address the continued stream of unfunded mandates that has unfairly burdened local governments and those that live and work for or in the communities. Secondly we have to look at a fairer distrubution of education aid as urban districts are struggling to meet the mandates and taxpayers are unfairly picking up the burden. Thirdly we need to ignite jobs in our region and find ways to provide opportunities for those who wish to work to find stable middle class jobs. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: The state needs to invest in workforce training in the health care arena. The reality is that health care has and will continue to be the largest part of our economy and as our health care system continues to expand, there will be many positions that need to be filled to support this growth. Workforce funds should be directed for those out of school for technical training and school curriculums should reflect this emerging trend not only in health care but in other trade related fields. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: If there is to be hydraulic fracturing we need to review all impacts to the environment and water supply both for short and long term impacts. To date this has not happened or been proven, therefore I am not convinced of its safety. We need to look not only at the impact of fracking on our economy but


also it's detriments. If the DEC does at some time deem this to be safe the final decision should rest with the local government as home rule need's to be respected as do the wishes of the resident Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I believe the system we have today needs to change. Large corporations and outside interests are at any time able to sway the outcome of any election one sets their sights on. We need to establish some type of public finance reform that allows the average person to have access to elected office. A online and transparent public finance program with limits makes sense to me although there are many different proposals that need to be debated and decided upon.

Carolyn McLaughlin

Party: WF Biographical Info: Parties: Working Families Campaign Web Site: www.carolynmclaughlin.com Education: B.S. Chemistry, Keuka College National Urban Fellow and M.P.A., Baruch College Experience and Qualifications: Prior to a 25 year career in

public service, I spent 10 years as a research chemist in cosmetics development and nuclear weapons research. I was elected to the Albany Common Council in 1997, and proudly represented the Second Ward in the historic South End while also serving as Majority Leader. In January 2010, I began a four-year term as the first African-American President of the Albany Common Council. Key Endorsements: I have been endorsed by the Working Families Party, the Albany County Democratic Party, Emily's List and Citizen Action. Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: My top three priorities would be: 1.) Creating jobs in the Capital Region that pay fair wages and put the people willing to work for the American Dream on the path to earning it. 2.) Working with teachers, administrators and parents to craft policy that addresses the underlying issues that cause problems in our urban schools. 3.) I would work with community leaders and the executive branch to pass laws that make our cities safer. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: To strengthen the economy we can raise the minimum wage and put money into the hands of consumers. We can ask the wealthiest to live up to the social contract and invest in the American Dream. We can fix our aging infrastructure with public works projects that create jobs. We can enforce the laws that were ignored by the people who helped cause the economic downturn. And, we can make sure our future workforce has the education they need to succeed a 21st Century workplace.


Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I am a vocal opponent of hydrofracking. In the Common Council I supported a permanent ban on fracking in Albany, and in the Assembly, I would continue protecting New Yorkers from shortsighted decisions with long-term consequences. If fracking can be shown as a safe practice that doesn’t have negative long-term health or environmental effects, I would re-consider my opposition. But, we still don’t even know what chemicals are pumped into the ground. We need more information. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I would support a system of publicly funded campaigns in this state. In this era, when some consider corporations people, money’s influence in politics threatens to disenfranchise the real people who need strong advocates in government, but can’t afford to donate to campaigns and PACs.

NY Assembly District 109 New district: Includes the Albany County Towns of Guilderland, New Scotland, and Bethlehem, and the southwestern part of the City of Albany. In addition to the candidates below, there will be a write-in space on the Libertarian Party line.


Theodore J. Danz Jr. Party: REP, IND Biographical Info: Parties: Republican, running in a primary for the Independence Party endorsement and conducting a write-in campaign for the Conservative line. Campaign Web Site: www.danzforassembly.com Education: Graduate of South Colonie High School

Experience and Qualifications: Ted is an independent businessman, having built a business from the ground up. Today Family Danz employs more than 60 people and is one of the largest such firms in upstate New York. Ted knows how to create private sector jobs, because unlike his opponents in this race he has actually done it. Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: My number one priority is finding ways to encourage private sector job growth in our communities. We need to adopt policies that encourage people to invest in their business though tax and regulatory certainty and predictability. Another important issue that we simply have to tackle in order to provide some


relief to our municipalities is real definable mandate relief. Finally, we need to give the people of the state more direct input by passing initiative and referendum legislation. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: I think the formula for success is already out there, and all we need to do is have to courage to adopt it. States that are making progress in terms of creating jobs have several things in common. They have lower personal, property, sales and other tax structures, they have fair but not overbearing regulations and government is an asset and not an impediment to business development. We need to maintain our fiscal discipline and cut spending in future state budgets, reduce taxes on individuals an Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I believe strongly in home rule, and believe that hydraulic fracturing should only go forward in communities that support it and welcome it. The latest dSGEIS went a long way toward establishing the proper safe guards such as establishing setbacks for aquifers and requiring disclosure of fracturing fluids and materials. The process of regulating the industry should not be dictated by politics, it should be dictated by accurate science. In terms of costs, we need to take a look at well permit fee Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: We need full disclosure, and that means not just of individual, corporate and union donations, but also so-called educational not for profit group, including “The Committee to Save New York”. While I agree with many of the goals of this organization, it does not mean they should be allowed to hide the source of their donations. If I have to disclose so should they, and so should every other person or entity engaged in politics.

Patricia A. Fahy Party: DEM, WF Biographical Info: Parties: Democrat, Working Families Party, Independence Party Campaign Web Site: www.patriciafahy.com Education: University of Illinois at Chicago, MPA Northern Illinois

University, Bachelors, Political Science Experience and Qualifications: NYS Department of Labor, Associate Commissioner, Intergovernmental Affairs an Federal Policy; Board of Education, Albany City School District (President for one year); NYS Assembly Program Development Group; Chicago Workforce Board, Executive Director; US Department of Labor, Office of Congressional and Intergovernmental Affairs, Associate Director of Employment and Training; Us House of Representatives,


Committee on Education and Labor, Subcomittee on Employment Opportunities, Senior Legislative Analyst. Key Endorsements: NY League of Conservation Voters; Working Families Party; Albany City Council - 9 members; Local Electeds from each of the towns in the 109th District Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: Reform the school aid formula to ensure every child has access to a quality education by shifting away from property taxes that are pricing people out of their homes and out of the state. Lower and middle income families are being left behind as our economy slowly recovers, so raising the minimum wage will help make sure all New Yorkers have the opportunity to thrive. Job creation through innovation and small business growth. Build on our investment in SUNY and innovators in clean tech. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: We must focus on small business growth and helping entrepreneurs bring their products to market, especially in sustainable energy and green jobs. We must focus on the future with investment in quality education. My work over the last two decades has been to develop and fund programs to train and educate workers while increasing economic development and public investments in small business, infrastructure and communities. Invest in employers paying living wages or in New York based facilities. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I support legislation to suspend the issuance of any new gas or oil drilling permits utilizing hydrofracking through June 1 2013. This would allow the State Legislature time to review and respond to substantive issues identified in public comments to the State Department of Environmental Conservation, the forthcoming release of DEC's final EIS determination, and additional issues that are not addressed under the current environmental review process such as comprehensive health impact assessment. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: As a grassroots candidate, I support legislation put forward by the Assembly reforming the system by allowing candidates for state office to receive matching contributions.This bill requires candidates to have a broad array of contributors by requiring a certain number of small-dollar donors which ensure that large-dollar donors do not have undue influence.I am pleased that my campaign is a grassroots effort. As of the most recent filing, a vast majority my contributions were for less than $110.


Joseph P. Sullivan Party: CON Biographical Info: Parties: CONSERVATIVE ROW C Campaign Web Site: www.lonerangeralbany.blogspot.com Education: HS GED earned in Navy at sea. BS Geography U Wisconsin, Madison (Korean GI Bill) MA Geography U Minnesota, Minneapolis (Natl Fellowship) Experience and Qualifications: 37 plus years participation in

politics at local, state and federal levels. Served in Gov Hugh Carey admin, worked with Assemblyman Dick Conners and was Chief of Staff to State Senator Howard Nolan. I know the workings of the state legislature and how to get things done. 26 years as President, Buckingham Pond/Crestwood Neighborhood Association, Albany. Involved in land use zoning matters, open space protection and neighborhood watch-security. Key Endorsements: The only endorsement I seek is that of the voters of the 109th Assembly District. I will represent them, not special interests,to the best of my ability. Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: 1.Liberty. Uphold the U S and NYS Constitutions. Inform the electorate.Protect their Constitutionally guaranteed " life,liberty and pursuit of happiness?. 2.Security -is the priority, Without it our economy and way of life are done. Jihadists brought their war of terror to our land. They are sworn to destroy us. The home front is the front line. Be alert.Anticipate/deter their attacks. 3.Emergency/Disaster preparedness. Anticipate. Be prepared to survive whatever comes our way. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Reduce regulations. Tap state natural gas and the 765kv Quebec-NYC hydro power line to provide low cost,clean energy.Rebuild/expand traditional manufacturing/ agricultural bases, heat homes, power our transportation. Rebuild/expand convential railroad system to move freight and passengers. Build light rail in urban areas.Connect urban,suburban,rural places. No high speed rail boondoggle. End Hudson dredging.Use money/labor to rebuild aging urban housing/infrastructure.Use Hudson River highway. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Yes, I support tapping New York's vast natural gas resources: making sure to safeguard groundwater, wells and reservoirs. Set up an accident fund .Tapping NY gas resources will stimulate an economic development,transportation and job boom akin to that produced by the building of the Erie Canal. Earmark use of gas for NYS, New England and Canada. No exports to China. Conserve this


resource for the long haul survival of NYS and America. Support clean coal use/technology for the same reason. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: Larger campaign reforms are needed. Shorter campaigns. Less restrictive ballot access. Voters are the key. They have to pay attention and cast informed votes. Candidates and the media have to wean themselves off dependency on campaign cash. Candidates don't take the money. Media provide more time/space for candidates to present themselves,and their positions to the voters, The media should reject mindless, deceptive,lying ads. Media must be non partisan. Photo voter ID. Only citizens vote.

NY Assembly District 110 New district: Includes Albany County: Town of Colonie. Schenectady County: Town of Niskayuna and the eastern part of the City of Schenectady.

Candidates (choose 1): Phillip G. Steck

Party: DEM, WF Biographical Info: Parties: Democrat (pending primary; Working Families Party; Independence Party (pending primary) Campaign Web Site: www.steckforassembly.com Education: B.A, Harvard College, magna cum laude in Government J.D., University of Pennsylvania Law School

Experience and Qualifications: Elected to 4 terms in the Albany County Legislature; Former Chair, Colonie Democratic Committee, 2002-2008 Key Endorsements: Colonie Democratic Committee; NYS Citizens Action; NYS Working Families Party; Teamsters Local 294; Colonie Town Board members Paul Rosano, Dan Hornick, and David Rowley; Abany County Legislators Joe O'Brien and Rich Jacobson; Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: • Protecting public and private pensions and the availability of necessary services for Senior Citizens. • Replacing a Medicaid system that is plagued by fraud and high administrative costs with a more efficient system that provides better care at less cost. • Making sure that educational funding goes to the classroom and benefits our students, rather than being squandered on additional layers of unnecessary government bureaucracy. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Economic development requires capital. The State Government should take over and reform Medicaid which is currently funded 50% by the Counties. That would free up local resources for economic development projects. Such projects


would require overarching State legislation to guarantee that the funds would be used as capital in support of economic development rather than being squandered on pet political projects. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I am opposed to hydrofracking. It is not a necessary source of energy when clean, green alternatives can be just as easily pursued and actually would be a far better source of jobs. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I favor a system of public financing of elections. The influence of PACS and corporations and outside groups in our elections has created skepticism with voters about who their elected officials are truly representing.

Jennifer A. Whalen Party: REP, CON, IND Biographical Info: Parties: Republican, Conservative, authorized to run on the Independence line. Campaign Web Site: www.whalenforassembly.com Education: Bachelor's Degree from Georgetown University Juris Doctor from Albany Law School at Union University Experience and Qualifications: I have been in both the private

and public sectors. I received a law degree from Albany Law School and, having started in private practice, transitioned to public service in the NYS Attorney General's office as an Assistant State Attorney General. There I helped tackle many of the issues facing our State today, including mismanaged State authorities, and prosecuted fraudulent Medicaid claims. I then served as an Assistant Counsel for the New York State Racing and Wagering Board, where I prosecuted cases in the thoroughbred and harness racing industries. After years of public service, I then transitioned back to the private sector by opening a local real estate brokerage company, The Whalen Group. I also have volunteered for a variety of charities, including To-Life (Breast Cancer Awareness), the Red Cross of Northeastern New York, the Albany Symphony Orchestra, Saratoga Performing Arts Center Action Council, Saint Gregory’s School, and the Greater Loudonville Association. Key Endorsements: Albany and Schenectady Counties' Republican and Conservative Parties. Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: A new and improved economy for the Capital Region requires new voices and new ideas. As your Assemblywoman, I would prioritize job creation, lower taxes, and a reduction in the sky-high cost of Medicaid. Albany’s old network of insiders and career politicians continues to see job creators and ordinary taxpayers as the piggy bank for their re-election schemes. This has led to


higher unemployment and fewer job opportunities. I pledge to close the gap between Albany’s promises and its performance. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: In order to fix the problem of pervasive private-sector unemployment, we must reverse the state’s public-sector spending binge. Economic studies have shown that public spending works at cross purposes with private-sector growth and job creation. This is because spending on public projects diverts private capital investment that would have otherwise been used more efficiently. High taxes inhibit economic expansion and kill jobs. Albany needs a new focus on the actions that actually create jobs. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Hydraulic fracturing must be consistent with New York’s conservationist vision, outlined in our state constitution: “The policy of the state shall be to conserve and protect its natural resources and scenic beauty.” It is premature to call for specific regulations related to hydraulic fracturing and shale-gas extraction, but I am confident that the DEC has the tools it needs to implement a rational policy of safe energy exploration for clean-burning natural gas, one that protects our resources. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: Overhauling New York’s election financing to create a completely taxpayer-funded system is not the answer. My campaign has been fueled by small donors, average citizens who want to make a difference in their community and their state. Let’s empower these grass-roots supporters instead of curtailing their rights. We can support fairness without restricting free speech rights of individuals and groups to support their preferred candidates with greater transparency for all levels of contributions.

NY Assembly District 111 New district: Includes Albany County: Towns of Knox and Berne. Schenectady County: Towns of Duanesburg, Princetown and Rotterdam, and the western part of the City of Schenectady. All of Montgomery County.


Thomas L. Quackenbush Party: REP, CON Biographical Info: Parties: Republican, Conservative Campaign Web Site: www.electquackenbush.com


Education: Highschool (Canajoharie Central), AAS (Herkimer County Community College). Experience and Qualifications: Assessor for Town of Minden Mayor Village of Ft Plain Supervisor, Town of Minden and Montgomery County Board of Supervisors. Chairman 2006 and 2011 Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: Real Property Tax Relief and Reform. Economy and Jobs Mandate Relief Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Continue Governor Cuomo's regional economic development strategies. Reduce Spending in State Government and state regulations that hamper small and large business growth. Reduce the property tax burden which would make NY a more inviting place to do business Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I would be favor if we can make sure it is safe for our residents and understand the total socio-economic impact. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I do not support public funding! I would propose stricter limitations on special interests.

Angelo L. Santabarbara Party: DEM, WF, IND Biographical Info: Parties: Democratic; Independence; Working Families Campaign Web Site: www.angelo2012.com Education: Angelo graduated from Schalmont High School in Rotterdam, NY. Angelo earned a Bachelor of Science degree from

SUNY Albany. Angelo served in the US Army Reserves between 1990 and 1998. Experience and Qualifications: Angelo has served as a Schenectady County Legislator since 2007.He is a small business owner, having created a cheese making company which donates all profits going to local children's charities. He serves on the Board of directors for the Autism Society of the Greater Capital Region. As a county legislator has never voted to raise taxes. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in four states. He is a LEED® Accredited Professional [Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design] and served as President of the Capital District Chapter New York State Society of Professional Engineers. He is also a licensed Real Estate Professional in New York State. Key Endorsements: Democratic Party; Independence Party; Working Families Party; AFL-CIO; CSEA; PEF; NYSUT; AFSCME; 1199 SEIU; SEIU Local 200; New York Association of Letter Carriers; New York League of Conservation Voters Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected?


A: Economic development and job creation: we must create a business-friendly environment so businesses can afford to reinvest in their companies, expand and create new jobs. Lowering taxes: we need to stop the practice of unfunded state mandates. I have seen firsthand how they impact our local governments, forcing them to eliminate or reduce services or pass the costs on to property taxpayers. Increase the minimum wage. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: NY needs to foster a business-friendly environment and eliminate burdensome regulations and fees that hurt businesses. That’s why I’m opposed to a 45% increase on truck tolls, having submitted both a letter and testimony to the Thruway Authority urging them to withdraw their proposal. I have also asked the state to pick up the interest payment on Unemployment Insurance, which will save businesses $100 million, allowing them to use that money to pay their bills, reinvest and expand. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Residents know what’s best for their communities, so I support giving localities home-rule when it comes to deciding whether or not they want to permit hydrofracking. With that said, I do believe the risks outweigh the benefits, so before hydrofracking moves forward in New York State, we must make sure there are adequate safety measures in place to protect our families and the natural resources we rely on. Until these safety measures are adopted I cannot support hydrofracking. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: New York’s campaign finance system need to be fundamentally overhauled. It simply costs far too much money to run for office. We need to come up with a way to keep the influence of big money out of campaigns and put it back into the hands of the people, where it belongs.

NY Assembly District 112 New district: Includes Saratoga County: Towns of Providence, Greenfield, Galway, Milton, Charlton, Ballston, Clifton Park, and Halfmoon. Schenectady County: Town of Glenville.


Michele E. Draves

Party: DEM, WF Biographical Info: Parties: Democratic, Working Families Party Campaign Web Site: www.dravesforassembly.com


Education: 2010 - Leadership Institute (AFL-CIO), National Labor College/ Silver Spring, MD, 1996-1999 SCCC - Paralegal Studies/ Schenectady, NY, 1987-1991 Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake High School/ Burnt Hills, NY Experience and Qualifications: With a background in Public Relations and Marketing as well as Non-Profit Management, I am a member of the Middle Class. I understand the struggles of trying to make ends meet in today's economy; I understand the struggles of families where one or both parents are out of work; I understand the struggles facing blue collar workers; I understand YOU! I am YOU! Key Endorsements: Congressman Paul Tonko, Assemblyman Bob Reilly, NYS Public Employees Federation, NARAL Pro-Choice, Planned Parenthood Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: I will fight to end special tax breaks and special privileges for those with wealth and influence. I fully support an increase in New York's minimum wage past $8.50 per hour to a living wage and indexing to inflation. We currently have several constituents earning less than a living wage and I find that appalling. I fully support the Reproductive Health Act, which guarantees a core value, a woman's ability to make her own personal, private health care decisions. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: We as legislators must make responsible choices, such as ending the special privileges extended to the wealthiest New Yorkers, there by closing the budget gap. Besides being able to balance the state budget, we must also raise the minimum wage to a livable wage. Once our constituents are earning at a level that they have disposable income, they will in turn stimulate our local economy. This will not only assist with job creation it will create a better way of life for our constituents. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Enough study has not been done to ensure that hydrofracking is safe. We can not risk New York's precious water supply without being sure of hydrofracking's environmental impact. Until, further research is completed, we need to put a moratorium on hydraulic fracturing. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I believe we need to severely curtail the maximum contribution limits. As the Empire State, we should set an example by being the first to limit campaign contributions to ensure that the candidate with the largest "war chest" does not have an unfair advantage.


James N. Tedisco Party: REP, CON, IND Biographical Info: Parties: Republican, Conservative, Independence Campaign Web Site: www.jimtedisco.com Education: Bachelor's Degree in Psychology -- Union College Master's Degree in Special Education -- College of Saint Rose Bishop Gibbons High School Experience and Qualifications: -NYS Assembly -Schenectady

City Council -Special education teacher, resource room instructor and varsity basketball coach at Bethlehem Central High School -Guidance counselor, varsity basketball coach and athletic director at Notre Dame-Bishop Gibbons High School Key Endorsements: National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), Unshackle Upstate, NYS Nurses Association, NYS United Teachers (NYSUT), NYS Federation of Police, named to NYS Farm Bureau's Circle of Friends Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: In the past two years, we’ve worked across party lines with the Governor, to pass two on-time budgets that eliminated deficits, and created an improved sense of spending priorities by reducing spending so we can keep New York working. My plan to keep NY working and help spur private sector jobs would: 1. Freeze and cut property taxes. 2. Mandate relief to lower property taxes. 3. Help small businesses create jobs by reducing burdensome and unnecessary state regulations. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: The state needs to reduce unfunded state mandates that cause local property taxes to increase. State government must have spending priorities so NY can continue to move away from the altered reality that there is always a revenue problem when in fact NY has a taxing and spending problem that prevents small businesses from growing and creating jobs. NYS also must be more of an ombudsman for small businesses which create most of the jobs and help remove obstacles for private sector job growth. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Currently, the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is working on a report studying the potential environmental impact of hydrofracking in New York. If the experts at the DEC conclude that it can be done safely with no negative impact on the environment and on drinking water then I would support limited hydrofracking in communities that want to develop that industry. The President has gone on record in support of developing America’s natural gas reserves to power our nation.


Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I support campaign finance reform. I’ve authored legislation (A.1503) to end the practice of bundling-sidestepping individual contribution limits by having an intermediary gather donations and then delivering them to a candidate to get credit for soliciting the funds. I support full disclosure and transparency of political contributions and relationships.

NY Assembly District 113 New district: Includes Saratoga County: Towns of Moreau, Wilton, Northumberland, Malta, Saratoga, and Stillwater, and the Cities of Saratoga Springs and Mechanicville. Washington County: Towns of Kingsbury, Hartford, Fort Edward, Argyle, Greenwich, Salem, Jackson and Easton.


Tony Jordan Party: REP, CON, IND Biographical Info: Parties: Republican, Independence, Conservative Campaign Web Site: www.tonyjordan.com Education: Jordan earned his Bachelor's Degree in business and finance from the University of Notre Dame in 1986. He later graduated magna cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania School of Law in 1995.

Experience and Qualifications: Assemblyman Jordan is a two-term Assemblyman, and was recently made floor leader of the Republican conference. He leads the debates in the Assembly on important matters like lowering taxes and improving the economy. Key Endorsements: Assemblyman Jordan is endorsed by the National Federation of Independent Business/New York, Unshackle Upstate, and New York State Rifle and Pistol Association. Jordan was also recognized with the top ratings from the Business Council of NY and was included in the New York Farm Bureau's Circle of Friends. Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: -Growing and strengthening our economy by reducing red tape, taxes and creating a business friendly environment allowing job creators to start hiring again. -Making New York affordable for families and small businesses by eliminating unfunded mandates on local government and schools to lower property taxes for good. - As a father of 4, I am committed to providing our kids the best education possible. This will be done by fixing the school aid formula ensuring a quality education for all kids. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment?


A: Our economic resurgence will be built with, not in spite of, small business owners. New York's policies need to recognize their important role in our recovery. Job creators tell me that over regulation, high cost of doing business and excessive taxes limit their ability to reinvest in their business and ultimately their ability to hire. While I said yes to investing $62.7 million in our local economy, the surest way to long-lasting economic recovery is to improve New York’s business climate. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: The Department of Environmental Conservation is expected to release its report on hydro-fracking soon. If science deems it safe, then the DEC must develop the most rigorous rules to protect our drinking water and environment. If the DEC does indeed vouch for the safety of natural gas drilling in the Marcellus shale, the communities which would be affected, like the Southern Tier and Syracuse, should then decide if it is right for them and DEC ensure its rules are followed. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: It is important to enforce and continually review campaign finance reform laws; this ensures that the voice of taxpayers are heard and not drowned out by special interests. Limiting special-interest dollars and requiring stricter reporting is one way to achieve this important objective. We must also continue to strive to find a workable solution to provide publicly funded campaign financing

Carrie Woerner

Party: DEM, WF Biographical Info: Parties: Democratic, Working Families Party Campaign Web Site: www.carrie2012.com Education: Carnegie Mellon University - Bachelors, Santa Clara University - MBA Experience and Qualifications: I have nearly 30 years of

private sector experience in the high tech industry, including both large corporate and small business experience. I run the software division of a small publishing company today, where I am proud to be creating local jobs for local people. I am serving my third term as a Village Trustee in the Village of Round Lake with a track record of fighting to reduce spending and holding the line on taxes. I am active volunteer, as a member of the Malta Planning Board, a member of the Saratoga Arts Board of Directors and the Wilton Food Pantry. Key Endorsements: Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, Eleanor's Legacy, NYS League of Conservation Voters, Women's Campaign Fund, NARAL, AFL-CIO, Capital District Area Labor Federation, Saratoga County Central Labor Council, Glens Falls Central Labor Council, New York State United Teachers, Public Employees Federation, Civil Service Employees Union, Plumbing and Pipefitting, National Association of Letter Carriers, Northeast Regional Council of Carpenters,


International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craft Workers, Service Employees International Union, American Federation of State County and Municipal Employees, International Union of Painters and Allied Trades, Transport Workers of America Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: 1. Modify the school aid formula to reflect the needs and conditions of rural upstate schools. 2. Protect the right of all women to access the full range healthcare services. 3. Create a better business climate by streamlining regulations, reducing fees and taxes, and addressing the following Top 3 Unfunded Mandates: a. Fix the calculation of the Unemployment Insurance Base Period b. Fully fund municipal 911 call centers c. Fund the mandatory purchase and scoring of Regents exams. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: First, make it simpler to start up and grow a small business by streamlining regulation and review processes in State agencies for small businesses bringing on their first employees. Establish a One-Stop-Shopping approach, where there is a single point of contact to assist new businesses in completing the correct forms, scheduling agency reviews, calculating fees etc. Second, continue to invest economic development dollars to bring advanced manufacturing to Upstate. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I do not support hydraulic fracturing at this time. Until the evidence is clear that this controversial procedure does not pose a health and safety risk to the families, communities, environment and economies in proposed areas, the moratorium should remain in place. If and only if the process is deemed safe, then all permitting and subsequent negotiations should ultimately be a matter for locally elected municipal governments to decide based on uniform NYS guidelines established by the DEC. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: We need to do all that we can to make political campaigns, fair, transparent, and accountable. The cost of campaigns has grown considerably, limiting the pool of candidates to those who can raise or fund expensive campaigns. We need to implement a system that encourages more people to run for office. I would support a system that provides an option for publicly funded campaigns to those seeking elected office, provided this could be done without impact to taxpayers.

NY Assembly District 114 New district: Includes Essex and Warren Counties. Washington County: Towns of Putnam, Dresden, Fort Ann, Whitehall, Hampton, Granville, and Hebron. Saratoga County: Towns of Day, Hadley, Edinburg and Corinth.



Daniel G. Stec

Party: REP, CON, IND Biographical Info: Parties: Republican (REP) Conservative (CON) Independence (IND) Campaign Web Site: www.stec4assembly.com Education: B.S. Chemical Engineering, Clarkson University M.B.A. University of Rhode Island

Experience and Qualifications: Queensbury Town Supervisor 2004-present • Warren County Board of Supervisors 2004-present - Chairman 2011-present - Finance Chairman 2008-2010 • Intercounty Legislative Committee of the Adirondacks 2004-present - Chairman 2005 • Queensbury Town Councilman 2000-2003 • Member, Capital Region Economic Development Council Key Endorsements: Unshackle Upstate, a coalition of business groups- GEORGE PATAKI, FORMER NYS GOVERNOR- CONGRESSMAN CHRIS GIBSON- SENATOR BETTY LITTLE- ASSEMBLYWOMAN TERESA SAYWARD- ASSEMBLYMAN TONY JORDAN- 30 DISTRICT TOWN SUPERVISORS AND MAYORS Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: My three top priorities will be to: a. work to improve the business climate to encourage job growth and opportunities b. control costs in state government, including costs mandated onto schools and local governments c. provide the highest quality of constituent service to find solutions to everyday issues in the district Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: To strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment the state should and I will work towards – a. improving the business climate through examining and modifying excessive and burdensome regulations that hinder and discourage business growth b. reducing the cost of state government by eliminating wasteful spending and mandates that drive up costs c. improving infrastructure vital to economic growth and access to high speed internet and cellular communications systems. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I am big on local government being involved and this means a home rule type of management with any hydrofracking. We need to increase our domestic production in so many areas and this is one of them. Knowing where to drill, what is below the surface, and what is used to frack are the main keys to safe hydrofracking. We cannot let misinformation lead the way. Where


environmental impact studies show it to be safe, then we should take the steps needed towards economic development and growth. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: Campaign finance reform is overdue but with the diverse and extreme opinions of those effecting any change, it is hard to nail down all needed changes. What we need is a review and elimination of loopholes to begin the process. Due to the nature of the beast change will not happen with a complete overhaul but has a better chance with precise incisions into the most abusive rules.

Dennis J. Tarantino Party: DEM, WF Biographical Info: Parties: Democratic Working Families Campaign Web Site: www.dentarantino.com Education: BA, Siena College JD, Albany Law School Experience and Qualifications: 37 years general practice of law

representing individuals and small business. 25 years owner Maple Abstract & Realty Corporation. Key Endorsements: Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 200 United Transportation Union Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers Local Union #2 Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: My top three priorities are: 1. Attracting businesses and good paying jobs by eliminating unnecessary regulations and increasing the minimum wage. 2. Lowering property taxes by,for example, eliminating unfunded mandates. 3. Improving our Education Aid Formula so North Country schools get their fair share of funding. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: We must ensure that New York is truly "open for business" by encouraging businesses to remain and grow in New York State and not outsource their labor. We must run our State Government like a business and keep expenditures down, find ways to lower taxes and make Albany more "user-friendly" by cutting red tape. When businesses stay and grow, the economy prospers and unemployment is reduced. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: As someone who has lived through an environmental disaster (Caputo Dump Site in Moreau), I know how important it is that we complete our "due diligence" when it comes to issues like hydrofracking. If the process currently under review by the Departments of Environmental Conservation and Health is ultimately approved, a process must be put in place to insure local input as well


as processes and procedures for immediate recovery in the event of health and /or safety violations. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: Candidates for public office should not be given an unfair advantage because they can "self-fund" their campaigns. There should be a process in place that provides a fair and equitable system that permits and encourages all qualified candidates to run for public office. I would support an option for public campaign financing provided it is done in a way that does not place additional finacial burden on the taxpayers.

NY Assembly District 115 New district: Includes Clinton and Franklin Counties. St. Lawrence County: Towns of Brasher, Lawrence, Hopkinton and Piercefield.


Karen M. Bisso Party: CON Biographical Info: Parties: Republican and Conservative Campaign Web Site: www.karenbisso.com Education: Masters Degree in Science in the field of Special Education from Plattsburgh State University. Certified in Elementary and Special Education K-12.

Experience and Qualifications: 26 year veteran at PHS, 8 years owner/manager of Bisso Properties. Campaign staff for State Assembly, Congressional and Gubernatorial races. Key Endorsements: New York State Conservative Party. Northern New York Beef Producers. Parishville ATV Club. Carl Paladino. Doug Hoffman. FISHCAP. NYTPP, New York State Right to Life. Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: I will Work to make the Assembly exercise it's 10th amendment responsibility to the tax payers to keep the federal government out of our education system, analyze, determine and work to eliminate all frivolous grants, and take a hard line, fact-based approach to making our Medicaid system both streamlined and cost effective. The politically correct answer to this question is "jobs and the economy" however, they cannot be addressed while taxes and spending deter new business growth and jobs. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: The only way for government to improve an economy is to get out of the way to make it possible for the economy to move unhindered by government


over regulation. It is time to take a hard look at states with strong economies and start to adopt those policies for ourselves. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Hydro-fracking is a local issue. It has absolutely nothing to do with the 115th Assembly district. It is currently highly regulated by the federal government. Should there be a need for any further regulation, it should be done at the County level and not done by creating another layer of bureaucracy which will in turn become a burden on the tax payer of the Empire State. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: After seven months of being involved in this campaign, it is blatantly apparent that this entire system is difficult to navigate. Shy of throwing everything away and starting fresh, I cannot give you an answer because in today's political climate, well funded incumbents are vilified while unfunded grassroots candidates are ridiculed. There is no happy medium.

Timothy R. Carpenter

Party: DEM Biographical Info: Parties: Democrat Campaign Web Site:www.timcarp.com Education: High School, some college, and the most important, experience of life. I am a husband, a father, a union member, an

elected official, a son, a friend. Each of these positions has taught me incredable thimgs. Experience and Qualifications: Union Member since 1985, Plattsburgh City Councilor since 2008, served onPlattsburgh City School Districts DWEIC for three years, facilitator for one, Three years as president of Momot School's PTO, liazon to the Plattsburgh Public Library, http://www.the-burgh.com/news/2011/dec/29/plattsburgh-public-library-saved/ http://pressrepublican.com/0200_opinion/x58542322/Editorial-Working-it-out-for-good-of-all. I have experiance working with Democrats, Republicans, Independants, Unions, Management, Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: I believe that through comunication and cooperation we can find effective solutions to all the problems that present themselves to us. My first priority will be to work at empowering all the municipalities in the district by reaching out to each and building relationships with all the officials and interested parties in the district. I further believe we are strongest when we are united. I will work to unite. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment?


A: When grants are awarded we must use local workers until all the locals are employed. Only then can firms look outside for workers. We must work to keep state money here where it can benefit us. We must work together for the good of us all. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I do not favor this without a study to ensure it is safe for us and the environment. If it is not safe the money we save now will cost us many times its value in the future. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: Not sure on this. My campaign will be very efficient. I do not plan on spending much money. Win or lose, I will not "buy" this position although I would really like it and know I would do a great job. I hope to show that money isn't what is important in a campaign. If I spend a lot how can I ask for reform or complain about the cost of running?

Janet L. Duprey

Party: REP, IND Biographical Info: Parties: Republican, Independence Campaign Web Site: www.Jane Duprey for Assembly Education: Peru Central School, 1963, The Wood School, NYC, 1965; SUNY, Plattsburgh; Empire State College Experience and Qualifications: Memberof Assembly 2007-present; Clinton County Treasurer 1986-2006; Clinton County

Legislator 1976-1985; In addition to my years of constituent work, my vast experience with budgeting, working with all levels of government, serving on a wide variety of civic organizations and boards have all provided an excellent level of experience to work in a bipartisan manner with a broad knowledge on issues effecting the North Country. Key Endorsements: Republican and Independence Parties To date: 1199 SEIU, Central New York Trades and Labor Council, Unshackle Upstate, NYSUT, NFIB (National Federation of Independent Business), Planned Parenthood Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: Continue to work with federal, state and local officials, businesses and organizations to create and retain jobs. Restore funding at all levels of public education to assure each student receives quality education to achieve all he/she is capable of. Work for substantial changes in State Education Dept. Revise the formula for School Foundation Aid. Support funding and work with local non-profit and proprietary facilities to provide health care for all ages in the right setting at right time. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment?


A: We've made progress with two on-time budgets while keeping government spending below the rate of inflation and closing a $13.5 billion deficit. We must continue to reduce regulations on businesses and reduce taxes/fees particulary on our small businesses. We should provide training for unemployed people with emphasis on the trades giving skills needed to fill currently available jobs. Tax incentives for businesses that hire the unemployed will also help both the employer and the employee. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: No permits have been issued for high-volume, horizontal hydrofracturing nor will there be until DEC has completed its review of 15,000 responses to public hearings. I am concerned for the safety of water sheds, and we must preserve them. We must also provide good-paying jobs in the hydrofracturing industry that will lead to reduced cost for gas and fuel oil. I am anxiously awaiting the DEC final report and recommendations so legislation can be appropriately written, debated and voted on. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: Decrease campaign contribution limits. Increase the mandated disclosure of contributors to eliminate the practice of 'bundling'. Ban personal use of campaign funds. Mandate full disclosure of independent groups and their individual contributors who spend money on behalf of candidates and political issues.

NY Assembly District 116 New district: Includes St. Lawrence County: Towns of Massena, Louisville, Waddington, Lisbon, Potsdam, Canton, Oswegatchie, De Peyster, Morristown, Macomb, Rossie and Hammond and the City of Ogdensburg. Jefferson County: Towns of Alexandria, Theresa, Antwerp, Philadelphia, Orleans, Pamelia, Lyme, Clayton, Cape Vincent, and Hounsfield, and the City of Watertown.


Addie Jenne Russell Party: DEM, WF Biographical Info: Parties: I am a member of the Democratic Party and will also appear on the Working Families Party line Education: University at Albany - BA in Political Science (minor in Greek & Roman Civilization), Syracuse University College of Law - JD with a certificate in Social Policy Experience and Qualifications: Associate with the law firm

Conboy, McKay, Bachman & Kendall, LLP - Watertown, New York - 2003-2008,


Jefferson County Legislator - 2006-2008, NYS Assembly - 2009-present, Jefferson County Branch AAUW - past president, Community Action Planning Council - past member, Volunteer Transportation Center - past member Key Endorsements: New York State United Teachers, New York State AFL-CIO, Planned Parenthood Advocates of New York, 1199 SEIU United Healthcare Workers East, Jefferson, Lewis & St. Lawrence Central Trades & Labor Council - to date Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: 1. Reforming the state's school aid formula to be more equitable to better support our poor rural and urban school districts. 2. Supporting a state budget that invests in education, agriculture and our communities, including supporting measures to more appropriately require the wealthy to pay their fair share. 3. Advocating for an increase in the minimum wage. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: 1. The state should invest in infrastructure projects to improve our communities and put people to work. 2. The state should fully fund our education system which will put tens of thousands of educators back to work to prepare our children to succeed in the future. 3. The state should provide more funding for the State University of New York to keep student expenses down in order to provide better access to higher education, and also fund worker training programs. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I oppose Hydraulic Fracturing and believe we should ban the practice in New York to protect our invaluable water resources for future generations. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I support public financing of campaigns and have voted for it in the past.

NY Assembly District 117 New district: Includes Lewis County. St. Lawrence County: Towns of De Kalb, Gouverneur, Hermon, Russell, Fowler, Edwards and Pitcairn. Jefferson County: Towns of Le Ray, Wilna, Champion, Rutland, Henderson, Adams, Rodman, Lorraine, Worth and Watertown (except the city). Oneida County: Towns of Forestport, Remsen, Florence, Camden, Annsville, Vienna, Verona, Westmoreland and Kirkland.


Kenneth Blankenbush Party: REP, CON, IND Questions: Candidate had no response

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NY Assembly District 118 New district: Includes Hamilton and Fulton Counties. St. Lawrence County: Towns of Madrid, Norfolk, Stockholm, Parishville, Pierrepont, Clare, Colton, Clinton and Fine. Herkimer County: Towns of Webb, Ohio, Russia, Newport, Norway, Salisbury, Fairfield, Schuyler, Herkimer, Manheim, Danube and Stark. Oneida County: Towns of Boonville, Lee, Western, Steuben, Trenton, and Deerfield.


Marc W. Butler Party: REP, CON, IND Questions: Candidate had no response

Joseph Chilelli

Party: DEM Biographical Info: Parties: I am running on the Democratic ticket but I am an independent. Campaign Web Site: www.ChilelliForAssembly.com

Education: High School, Trade School Experience and Qualifications: Was a County Legislator a few years ago. I am a business man and entrepreneur. I believe someone has to have common sense, keep and open mind on all issues and most of all represent the people he or she intends to serve in order to be qualified.... Key Endorsements: Democratic Party. Concerned Citizens For a Better Herkimer County. Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: Enact bills that will give more power back in the hands of the people. Reduce the Tax Burden. Create a business atmosphere for companies and individuals to want to come and invest in New York State. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: We must reduce taxes on every level in order to attract more businesses and entrepreneurs to come and invest in New York. This will in turn create the jobs. Governments doesn't create employment but creates the conditions for individuals and companies to prosper who in turn create the jobs. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: At this point in time I am against anything that will harm our water supply. Until it is proven that we can safely extract the gas without harming the environment I will not support any legislation from moving this forward. Natural


Gas can be an economic boom for New York State but not at the cost of sacrificing our water or environment. I would be all for it if it can be shown without a shadow of a doubt that is is safe on all levels. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: Not at this time.

NY Assembly District 119 New district: Includes Oneida County: Towns of Floyd, Marcy, and Whitestown, and the Cities of Rome and Utica. Herkimer County: Town of Frankfort.


Anthony J. Brindisi Party: DEM, WF, IND Biographical Info: Parties: Democratic, Independence, Working Families Campaign Web Site: www.votebrindisi.com Education: B.A., Siena College; J.D., Albany Law School Experience and Qualifications: Attorney in private practice; former board member for Utica City School District

Key Endorsements: Teamsters, AFL-CIO, NYSUT, UFCW, NYS Nurses Association Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: If elected to the New York State Assembly, my priorities would be simple: help private-sector job growth in the Mohawk Valley by relieving citizens from crushing taxes and provide real incentives for future investment, make sure our kids have access to a great public school education, and help end the dysfunction in Albany by reducing waste and making government more transparent. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Politicians have been promising to fix the state economy for generations. In my first term, I’ve taken a different approach. I’ve partnered and listened to local businesses and leaders from across our region so that I can help change Albany and promote a better climate to start and grow a business. I’ve worked closely with Governor Cuomo to cut wasteful regulations so it’s easier for business owners, and I’ve voted to cut taxes so capital can be used to start and run a business. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers?


A: Vertical hydraulic fracturing has been taking place in New York for more than sixty years. Now, states like Pennsylvania have been having buyer’s remorse over their decision to allow this new horizontal fracturing. While I recognize the need for more energy and good paying jobs, I am not in favor of a ‘drill-first, ask safety questions later’ attitude when it comes to preserving and maintaining our water quality, which is essential for manufacturing and population growth. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I would be the first person to tell you that campaigns are expensive to run. I am in favor of some common sense campaign finance regulations that limit corporate involvement. But I have two important caveats as we think about this question—as a democracy, we don’t want just well-off candidates to run for office, and let’s remember that campaign dollars pay to educate voters on the candidates, and TV ads and postage to send letters is expensive, and so I don't want to sacrifice educating voters

NY Assembly District 120 New district: Includes Oswego County: Towns of Sandy Creek, Boylston, Redfield, Orwell, Richland, Albion, Williamstown, Amboy, Parish, Mexico, New Haven, Scriba, Volney, Palermo, Hastings, West Monroe, Constantia, Schroeppel, Granby and Scriba, and the Cities of Oswego and Fulton. Jefferson County: Town of Ellisburg. Onondaga County: Town of Lysander.


William A. Barclay Party: REP, CON, IND Questions: Candidate had no response

NY Assembly District 121 New district: Includes Madison County. Oneida County: Towns of Augusta, Marshall, Sangerfield, Bridgewater and Vernon (including City of Sherrill). Otsego County: Towns of Plainfield, Richfield, Exeter, Otsego, Edmeston, Burlington, Pittsfield, New Lisbon, Hartwick, Laurens, Milford, Otego and Oneonta (and City of Oneonta).


Bill Magee Party: DEM


Biographical Info: Parties: Democrat Education: Cornell University,Bachelors Degree in Agricultural Economics Experience and Qualifications: I am a long time small business owner, experienced in agricultural issues and involved in many civic groups. I am a member of the Morrisville College Foundation, as well as on the Board of Directors of Community Memorial Hospital and Crouse Community Center. I have served in Albany long enough to gain the respect of my colleagues, who often ask my advice on agricultural issues, and I am proud to serve as the Chair of the State Assembly Agriculture Committee. Key Endorsements: AFL-CIO, NYSUT, NFIB, SEIU(Local200), PEF, NYS Nurses Association, Planned Parenthood Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: *working to attract business and create jobs *holding down state taxes and spending and providing needed tax relief *supporting education initiatives Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Support for businesses and education will help the economy. Funding for the Regional Economic Development Councils,of which I am a member, is distributed to small businesses on capital grants and Excelsior Tax Credits to endorse projects that boost job creation while capitalizing on regional assets. I supported increased state aid to NY community colleges by $39.1 million for state fiscal year 2012-2013. I support legislation to reduce regulations and create a more inviting business community. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I have signed on to numerous pieces of legislation to protect the environment from the possible dangers of high volume hydraulic fracturing. The Assembly passed the "Home Rule" bill, which I co-sponsored, to allow localities to ban gas drilling, however the Senate failed to act upon it. I have also supported a moratorium on high volume hydrofracking, and do not believe that it has been proven to be a safe process at this time. I would urge and support a study on its effects on public health. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I would not be opposed to, and in fact have supported legislation to reform campaign financing in New York State. I believe in contribution limits, and do not have any single large contributors to my campaign, and I am certainly in favor of limiting the usage of campaign funds, as well as the establishment of a watchdog agency or board to oversee the use of those funds. In respect to the origination of funding, the establishment of public funding for campaigns is the highest goal.


Levi J. Spires Party: REP, CON Biographical Info: Campaign Web Site: leviforassembly.levispires.com Education: Syracuse University MBA ('07), Syracuse University MPA ('07) Experience and Qualifications: I have important experience that will help me grow New York’s economy. I served as both an

entrepreneur creating jobs in Central New York and as a Captain in the U.S. Air Force. Though I have never served in an elected office, I have extensive experience, training, and education in government. My leadership in both the private and public sector gives me a needed perspective on both sides of the economic coin. Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: My first priority is to represent constituent views to the State of New York. This means working with state and local governments to improve the 121st district. Major legislation I will sponsor will focus on increasing individual freedom by: cutting NYS spending and mandates; simplifying current laws; and improving government operations. Finally, to get a “yes” vote, I will ask two questions: 1) “Does this legislation improve the district?” 2) “Will we be more or less free with this law?" Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: First and most importantly, New York State must lower and simplify the tax code. Our state is too large to have business funding decisions centrally managed through wealth redistributing economic development projects. New York can grow as long as government gets out of the way and lets it happen. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I support accessing new energy sources, to include drilling for natural gas. Alternatively, I don't support indiscriminate industrial processes that ruin our environment. As such, I will work with legislators to write laws that allow us to safely access our natural resources yet hold responsible entities accountable for pollution. Examples include limits on production, prosecution for environmental violations, or tax levies on polluting activities. We cannot afford cavalier business practices. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I'm perplexed by the desire to limit campaign finances. For example, I'm running an effective campaign for less than $10K, whereas my opponent has spent over $100K on previous elections. Both strategies are fine by me. What I believe we really want is ethical politicians. We want representatives to work for


all their constituents, not just donors. We should look at reducing individual ability to award grants, loans, and tax breaks as solutions to unethical behavior.

NY Assembly District 122 New district: Includes Otsego County: Towns of Morris, Butternuts, and Unadilla. Chenango County: Towns of North Norwich, New Berlin, Preston, German, Smithville, Oxford, Guilford, Greene, Coventry, Bainbridge, Afton and Norwich (including the City of Norwich). Delaware County: Towns of Sidney, Franklin, Masonville, Tompkins, Walton, Colchester, Hancock and Deposit, with portions of the Village of Deposit in both Broome and Delaware Counties.Broome County: All except the Towns of Maine, Union, Vestal, and the City of Binghamton.


Clifford Crouch Party: REP Questions: Candidate had no response

NY Assembly District 123 New district: Includes Broome County: Towns of Union and Vestal, and the City of Binghamton.


Julie A. Lewis Party: REP, CON, IND Questions: Candidate had no response

Donna A. Lupardo

Party: DEM, WF Biographical Info: Parties: Democratic, WFP Campaign Web Site: www.DonnaLupardo.com Education: BA- Wagner College, Staten Island, NY, MA- Binghamton University, Binghamon, NY Experience and Qualifications: Member, NYS Assembly, 8 years, Former Broome County Legislator, 2 years

Key Endorsements: New York League of Conservation Voters, NYSUT, PEF, 1199 SEIU, NYS Nurses Association, Eleanor Roosevelt Legacy, Empire State Pride Agenda, Planned Parenthood, NARAL Questions:


Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: 1-Jobs and the economy 2-Flood recovery and mitigation 3-Mandate relief Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: I support the Governor's creation of economic development councils, to develop regional cooperation and strengths. This has helped the Southern Tier partner with neighboring counties to focus on key job sectors (e.g. energy, transportation, health care, agriculture....). We must adequately fund job training, early childhood eduction, K-12, community colleges, and universities. Encouraging investment in research, development and commercialization will also help rebuild our manufacturing base. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: As a member of the Assembly Committee on Environmental Conservation and the DEC's Advisory Panel for HVHF, I have pressed for answers on a host of outstanding issues and concerns regarding this practice. I have made it clear that I will not support permitting unless questions about health impacts, urban impacts, wastewater treatment, staffing levels at numerous state agencies, road impacts, etc. are adequately addressed. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I have been a major proponent of campaign finance reform since I was first elected. I am a cosponsor of both the 2012 Fair Elections Act (A9885d) and the Comptroller Campaign Finance Reform Act (A8367), which would begin the process of transitioning state elections to a public financing system. A9885d provides for the optional public financing of campaigns for statewide offices, state legislative offices and constitutional convention delegates.

NY Assembly District 124 New district: Includes all of Tioga County, including Village of Apalachin. Within Broome County: Town of Maine. Half of Chemung County including the Towns of Big Flats, Horseheads, Southport, Ashland, and Elmira, including the City of Elmira.


Christopher Friend Party: REP, CON, IND Questions: Candidate had no response

NY Assembly District 125 New district: Includes Tompkins County. Cortland County: Towns of Virgil, Harford, Lapeer, and Cortlandville (including the City of Cortland).



Barbara S. Lifton Party: DEM, WF

Biographical Info: Parties: Registered in Democratic Party and endorsed by Working Families Party Education: B.A. in English, Masters in English w teaching certification for HS English Experience and Qualifications: A ten-year member of the State Assembly. Prior to that fourteen years Chief of Staff to Assemblyman Luster. Eight years teaching high school English. Mother and grandmother. Besides my work as a member of five Assembly committees, including Election Law, I chair the Assembly Majority Steering Committee, and I am the Speaker's appointee to the Citizens' Advisory Committee to the State BoE and worked for five years to help NY have the most secure, reliable, transparent voting machines in the US. Key Endorsements: NYSUT, the Nurses' Association, Planned Parenthood PAC, PEF, SEIU, Transit Workers Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: I will continue to help lead the effort to send the SGEIS on hydro-fracking back to the drawing board, as the process has been deeply flawed from the start. I will continue to push my nine bills on fracking, and other related efforts. I will help to re-invigorate the discussion about the CFE decision and work to increase school aid in a fair formula. I will listen to patients and the health care community about Medicaid Re-design impacts and continue to support single-payer health care. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Experts and experience tell us that many factors create a healthy economy. Business leaders say that they need more educated employees, so funding to improve schools is crucial. Small business creates the vast majority of new jobs; we must cut red tape where possible and relieve their property taxes by reforming our state income tax to have the wealthiest pay a fair share. As a membr of the Regional ED Council, I an working to direct funding to capacity-building projects in this region. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I do not currently favor allowing HVHF in our state. From my four years of study and work, it is clear that HVHF is a high-risk heavy industry -- a risk to our water, air and health. I continue to say that the DEC's SGEIS process is very flawed and should be re-started,as the initial scoping study was completely inadequate. Major issues were ignored, such as wasterwater treatment and disposal,cumulative impacts and a real health study. Bills can't fully address these problems. DEC must re-boot. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer.


A: In my first year in the Assembly, I signed onto a campaign finance bill that would overhaul our current system that is too-subject to corruption. I have always seen it as a priority issue. We need at least partial financing of elections that would diminish the influence of money and allow more people to consider running for office. We must get more funding to the State Board of Elections for enforcement. We need to be careful not to add burdens that keep "regular people" from running.

NY Assembly District 126 New district: Includes Cayuga County: Towns of Throop, Owasco, Fleming, Springport, Ledyard, Genoa, Venice, Scipio, Niles, Moravia, Sempronius, Locke, Summerhill and the City of Auburn. Onondaga County: Towns of Elbridge, Camillus, Skaneateles, Marcellus, Spafford, Otisco and LaFayette. Cortland County: Towns of Scott, Preble, Homer, Truxton, Cuyler, Solon, Taylor, Freetown, Cincinnatus, Marathon and Willet. Chenango County: Towns of Linclaen, Otselic, Smyrna, Sherburne, Columbus, Pitcher, Pharsalia, Plymouth, and McDonough.


Gary D. Finch Party: REP, CON, IND

Biographical Info: Questions: Candidate had no response

NY Assembly District 127 New district: Includes Onondaga County: Towns of Clay, Cicero, Manlius, Pompey, Tully, and Fabious.


Don Miller Party: REP, CON, IND

Biographical Info: Parties: Independence, Republican, Conservative Campaign Web Site: www.donmillerassembly.com Education: MA Teaching, MA enhancement Education Administration, BA Political Science Experience and Qualifications: Former teacher, high school principal, manufacturing quality manager, nursing home staff training director, White House Cabinet staff, Congressional staff, political consultant. Key Endorsements: Veterans Party, NFIB, NRA, more to come Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected?


A: PROTECT JOBS BY CUTTING TAXES: 1. Enact an HONEST property Tax Cap of 0% with complete mandate relief in the same legislation, to place a genuine cap on taxes and end Albany's spending addiction. 2. Reduce state taxes on cell phones, gasoline, healthcare, clothing, and day care to increase the value of low wage worker paychecks without losing jobs and without pushing costs through supply chains. 3. Eliminate back-door taxing by NY State Authorities, e.g., Dormitory, Thruway Authority, et. al. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: PROTECT JOBS BY CUTTING TAXES AND ENHANCING COMPETITIVENESS: I voted for a middle class tax cut for all of us, not just the favored few -- but we're just getting started. NY is the highest-taxing, highest-spending state in the nation: EVERY NYer is overtaxed. We need to reduce taxes on families and employers so businesses can hire and families can grow. Capping property taxes at 0% growth, capping state spending at 0% growth, and ending family taxes will help families save for the future. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I support fracking as soon as two key issues are resolved: Public health safety and property rights. These issues are solvable, and we should devote the resources necessary to implementing solutions in the near-term. When public health is assured, and property rights issues are sufficiently clarified so that homeowners, developers, and lending institutions each are adequately protected in their legitimate concerns, we should allow localities to move forward with development. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: Yes -- I would remove candidate control of campaign resources after they leave office. The currrent system encourages office holders to amass the largest possible campaign warchest because when they retire, they maintain control of those funds. The funds can essentially be used for virtually any purpose and is in effect an undeclared retirement account. I would propose that term limits be employed in conjunction with this reform to curtail the available period for fund raising.

Albert A. Stirpe Jr Party: DEM, WF Biographical Info: Parties: Democratic, Working Families Party Campaign Web Site: www.alstirpe.org Education: BA Economics, University of Notre Dame Experience and Qualifications: Served two terms in the NY State Assembly (2007-2010) Started two high tech small businesses, CIDTEC and Qube Software (1987-2002).


Key Endorsements: Plumbers & Steamfitters Local 267, IBEW 43, Laborers’ Local 633, Iron Workers Local 60,New York State Nurses Association, New York State AFL-CIO, New York State United Teachers,Greater Syracuse Labor Council, PEF, UAW Region 9,Planned Parenthood, CSEA Local 1000, SEIU 1199, SEIU Local 200, Teamsters Local 1149, Teamsters Local 317 Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: 1) Continued economic development. Jobs are still the #1 priority for me. Particularly, decent jobs that displaced factory workers from New Process Gear, Carrier, Lockheed Martin are qualified to fill, specifically in logistics and distribution. 2) Education. From pre-K through college. As the economy improves education must be a priority. The State needs contribute more to reduce pressure on property taxes. 3) Women's issues. Such as supporting the Fair Pay Act and women's health choices. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: I believe NY should continue the Regional Economic Development councils to focus on the strengths of each region. In the upstate area, we need to focus on exports (both agricultural and industrial) and the logistical systems needed to move goods in and out of the region. An environmentally cleaner and more efficient method would be by rail down to the markets in NYC as well as the NY/NJ Ports. Partnering with Community Colleges to teach logistics will provide the workers needed for this strategy Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: First and foremost local control of zoning must be maintained. In areas where the majority of people simply don't want fracking, they should be able to prevent it. If certain counties along the PA border want it, they should be allowed,under heavy regulation (increased DEC staff). Moreover fracking fluids should be classified as a hazardous waste. Our waste water treatment plants cannot currently handle these fluids (heavy metals and radioactivity). We must treat them as such. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: In addition to overturning Citizen's United, I think that all campaign contributions should be totally transparent and reportable. I believe a referendum should be on the ballot to allow the voters of NY to decide if they want to dedicate public funding to political campaigns. If the answer is yes, I would advocate for a system like Clean Money/Clean Elections that was proposed a few years back by several good government groups in an effort to make elections more substantive and transparent.

NY Assembly District 128 New district: Includes Onondaga County: Towns of Salina, DeWitt (except part of the City of Syracuse), Onondaga (including Onondaga Nation Indian Reservation), and part of the City of Syracuse.



Sam Roberts Party: DEM, WF Questions: Candidate had no response

John Sharon

Party: REP, IND Biographical Info: Parties: Republican, Independence Campaign Web Site: www.jwsharon.com Education: BA in English, Elmira College; J.D, Syracuse University College of Law Experience and Qualifications: Senior Deputy County Attorney for Onondaga County;Admitted to practice in New York State's 4th

Appellate Division;Admitted to practice in US District Court for the Northern District; Past president, DeWitt Community Library Board of Trustees; mentor and civic engagement coach Syracuse Young Professionals Kiwanis Club; parishioner and volunteer, Holy Cross Church of DeWitt Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: If elected my top three priorities would be (1) to work to restore a vibrant economy to Upstate New York, (2) to work to improve the Medicaid system by developing efficiencies and reducing fraud, and (3) I will work to bring about a fundamental change in the our state functions by reforming our broken pension system and ending unfunded mandates that drive up property taxes. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Ultimately, the best way to decrease the skyrocketing unemployment in Upstate New York is to make our state more competitive for business. This requires lower taxes, a better-trained workforce, and less micromanagement of business by Albany. By working to cut taxes, cut red tape, and cut the number of New Yorkers who have been failed by our educational system, we can create a climate that is strong for workers and businesses. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: As a sportsman, a father, and a proud Central New Yorker, I have a firm understanding of what is at stake should we harm our environment in the name of economics. I also understand that New York stands to be the beneficiary of significant financial gains should we find a safe way to extract the natural resources beneath our feet. We should not ban drilling but should seek to apply the safest and most environmentally friendly methods available and work to ensure our water is protected.


Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: Freedom of speech is our most cherished of rights and it is important for the health of own political system that we recognize the panoply of expression that constitutes speech. While campaign finance law changes have occurred through the history of our democracy it is not regulation but that of the will of the people that moderate political expression. As non-partisan groups grow in their reticence to accept current practices there will be bi-partisan agreement in campaign finance.

NY Assembly District 129 New district: Includes Onondaga County: Towns of Van Buren and Geddes and a large part of the City of Syracuse.


William B. Magnarelli Party: DEM, WF, IND Biographical Info: Parties: Democratic, Working Families, Independence Campaign Web Site: www.magnarelli.com Education: BA, Syracuse University 1970, JD, Syracuse University College of Law 1973 Experience and Qualifications: Member, New York State Assembly, 1999-Present, Councilor at Large/Majority Leader, City

of Syracuse Common Council, 1996-1998 Key Endorsements: UAW Region 9, NYS Nurses Association, Teamsters Local 1149, SEIU Local 1199, Bricklayers and Allied Craft Workers Local 2, Laborers' International Local 633, United Food and Commercial Workers Local 1, Roofers, Waterproofers and Allied Workers Local 195, Onondaga County Deputy Sheriff's Police Association, CWA Local 1123, PEF, NYSUT, Veterans' Party, Sierra Club, NY League of Conservation Voters, Empire State Pride Agenda, NYS Pipe Trades Association Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: 1. Enacting policies that will support the middle class and grow jobs. 2. Devoting proper resources to education at all levels. 3. Continuing to make state and local government more accountable to the taxpayers. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: The Governor and the Legislature need to continue to pass on-time budgets that devote the necessary resources to economic development. I applaud the Governor's Regional Economic Development Councils for giving local leaders more input on where our economic development resources go. We also need to reduce any unnecessary and duplicative regulatory burdens/mandates to help


our New York businesses grow. As a member of the Governor's Mandate Relief Council, I am looking at these issues seriously. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I believe hydrofracking should not be allowed in New York until all the relevant safety studies have been completed by the DEC and the EPA to ensure that the process can be done safely. If that can be shown, then I am in favor of issuing permits. Legislatively, we need to empower the DEC to issue the appropriate regulations to monitor the drilling, ensure that companies that cause environmental damage will pay for its clean up, and provide the DEC with the necessary resources for enforcement. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I would support new laws that make campaign contributions more transparent and limit the influence of big money donors. However, I do not support taxpayer's money being used to provide "public financing" of political campaigns. Taxpayers money should be used to provide necessary resources to other areas like education, economic development and health care.

NY Assembly District 130 New district: Includes Wayne County. Cayuga County: Towns of Sterling, Victory, Ira, Conquest, Cato, Montezuma, Mentz, Brutus, Sennett, and Aurelius. Oswego County: Towns of Oswego, Mineto and Hannibal.


Robert C. Oaks Party: REP, CON Questions: Candidate had no response

NY Assembly District 131 New district: Includes Ontario County. Seneca County: Towns of Junius, Tyre, Waterloo, Seneca Falls, Fayette and Varick, and the City of Geneva.


Brian M. Kolb

Party: REP, CON, IND Biographical Info: Parties: Republican Conservative Independence Campaign Web Site: www.friendsofbriankolb.com Education: Master of Science and Bachelor of Science Degrees earned from Roberts Wesleyan College


Experience and Qualifications: Leader of the New York State Assembly Republican Conference which represents over six million New Yorkers from every region of the state. The only Legislative Leader in State government that has actually started and run successful private sector businesses. Former President of Refractron Technologies and a co-founder of the North American Filter Corporation. New York State Assemblyman since 2000. Key Endorsements: National Rifle Association Unshackle Upstate National Federation of Independent Business NYSUT Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? (Maximum of 500 characters) A: My first priority will be fixing New York’s economy by growing the private sector to create more jobs and help unemployed New Yorkers get back to work. My second priority will be reducing New York’s high cost of living to make our state a much more affordable place for families. My third priority will focus on reducing government’s cost by capping state spending, stopping unfunded mandates and making Albany more fiscally responsible. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? (Maximum of 500 characters) A: The most important thing State government can do to help strengthen the economy and reduce unemployment is to stop hurting and start helping private sector job creators. Albany needs a pro-growth agenda that will deliver real tax relief, cut and cap spending, stop unfunded mandates and provide regulatory relief. We need our State Agencies to stop acting as roadblocks to job creation and economic development and start working with job creators to make New York more business friendly. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? (Maximum of 500 characters) A: I support the safe exploration and extraction of natural gas so long as it is done in a careful, well-supervised and closely monitored manner that fully protects our waterways and watersheds. Our State Department of Environmental Conservation is a nationally recognized leader in environmental safety and should play an important role during this process, from initial permitting to rigorous inspection and oversight of any natural gas extraction to ensure 100 percent safety for the environment. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. (Maximum of 500 characters) A: Regarding New York’s system of campaign regulation and enforcement, one change is ensuring full disclosure in real time so voters know exactly who has donated to candidates for public office. We can accomplish this by extending the current 24-hour notice requirement for campaign disclosure reports to extend throughout the year. Requiring real-time, yearlong full disclosure would provide a form of enhanced disclosure for a more informed electorate, cleaner campaigns and a stronger democracy.


NY Assembly District 132 New district: Includes Yates and Schuyler Counties. Seneca County: Towns of Romulus, Ovid, Lodi and Covert. Chemung County: Towns of Catlin, Veteran, Erin and Van Etten. Steuben County: Towns of Fremont, Avoca, Wheeler, Pulteney, Urbana, Wayne, Howard, Bath, Bradford, Hartsville, Canisteo, Cameron, Thurston, Campbell, Hornby, Rathbone, Addison, Erwin, Woodhull, Tuscarora, Lindley, Caton and Corning, including the City of Corning.


Philip A. Palmesano Party: REP, CON, IND Questions: Candidate had no response

NY Assembly District 133 New district: Includes Livingston County. Monroe County: Towns of Wheatland, Rush, Pittsford, and Mendon. Steuben County: Towns of Dansville, Wayland, Cohocton, Prattsburgh, and Hornellsville, including the City of Hornell.


Richard E. Burke

Party: CON Biographical Info: Parties: Republican / Conservative Campaign Web Site:www.ElectRichardBurke.com Education: Avon Central High school (1983) LeMoyne College (1987) Experience and Qualifications: 23 years (1989 - Present) Small Business Owner in Employee Benefits Actuarial Firm (Burke

Group). We have 19 employees working to serve employer organizations throughout WNY. I have also served 9 years as Mayor of Avon, NY (1995-2004). Finally, I have been active in the Avon Volunteer Fire Department, Avon Lions Club, Knights of Columbus, Avon Historical Society, Avon Little League, Avon Chamber of Commerce, and Genesee Valley Conservancy. I'm involved in making my community a better place. Key Endorsements: Livingston County Republican Committee and New York State Conservative Party Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected?


A: First, to reform our pension system which provides a benefit that is currently unsustainable for future generations to finance. Second, to address the anti-business climate that still prevails in NYS. We need to help Small Business stay, grow, and prosper in NYS. Third, to provide efficient and superior customer service to my constituents. An Assemblyman should be a resource for an individual, business, or organization to help solve problems they may face in dealing with NYS. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Lead by Example. Reduce the size of NYS government, as measured in both full-time employees and in how much NYS spends each year. The State's economy will improve when Albany shows the business communtiy they are committed to spending less, and by paying down our debt. Finally, we need to address the current promises NYS has made which are not sustainable. Specifically, our state's pension plan and promises made to pay for retiree health care premiums. It must be addressed immediately. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Wisdom comes from knowing your own limitations of expertise. This issue is very complex and requires a comprehensive solution best provided by experts currently handling the proposed regulations for NYS. We must be very careful to ensure the beauty of our enviroment, while allowing the promotion of lawful commerce in areas of need within NYS. I have four Daughters all under the age of 6 yrs old, and I do not want to be the adult who allowed harm to come to their NYS. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: Full disclosure of all contributor's names and legal residence. We should lower the contribuiton limits over the next four years. Finally, I am against public finance of campaigns or candidates. Bill Nojay

Party: REP, IND Biographical Info: Campaign Web Site: www.billnojay.com Questions: Candidate had no response

Randolph J. Weaver

Party: DEM Questions: Candidate had no response


NY Assembly District 134 New district: Includes Monroe County: Towns of Parma, Greece, and Ogden.


Bill Reilich Party: REP, CON, IND Questions: Candidate had no response

NY Assembly District 135 New district: Includes Monroe County: Towns of Webster, Penfield and Perinton and the City of East Rochester.


Mark C. Johns Party: REP, CON, IND Biographical Info: Parties: Republican, Conservative, Independence Campaign Web Site: www.markjohns.org Education: Bachelor of Science, St. John Fisher College Experience and Qualifications: Two years in NYS Assembly, three years on Webster Town Board, 37 years as employee of Monroe County Health Department, former member of Webster

Conservation Board Key Endorsements: Previously endorsed (and seeking) Locust Club, Rochester Firefighters Local 1071, Rochester Building and Construction Trades Council, Rochester Business Alliance, Greater Rochester Assoc of Realtors, BENTE Local 2419, Rochester Police PBA, IBEW Electrical Workers, NY Uprising. Also seeking several unions; including NYSUT, CSEA, SEUI and others. Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: Bringing good-paying jobs to New York State and our community to improve our economy. Reforming Albany - specifically campaign finance reform and meaningful mandate relief. Consolidating and streamlining services to make government more efficient and to cut spending. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: State government must cut the red tape and unnecessary regulations it imposed on business; as well as offer incentive for good-paying jobs. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers?


A: I have voted to delay hydraulic fracturing until it can be proven to be conducted in an environmentally safe manner. We need to ensure that it can be done safely so that it will protect the health and economic well-being of New Yorkers. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: Definitely. I support current proposed campaign finance reform legislation in the State Assembly and stand ready to cast my ballot in support.

David R. Koon Party: DEM Biographical Info: Parties: Democrat Campaign Web Site: www.davidkoonforassembly.com Education: Four Year BS Degree Experience and Qualifications: 15 years in the NYS Assembly Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected?

A: The most significant issues on the minds of all New Yorkers are jobs and the economy, as well as lowering taxes and cutting spending. During my 15 years in the New York State Assembly, I always supported legislation that would alleviate unnecessary regulations that had a negative impact on small businesses in order to allow them to expand their companies and hire more people. I also supported tax incentives and affordable loans for companies that would locate in our area and hire local people. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: One of the initiatives I'm already working on for my return to the Assembly is ways to reduce fraud in Medicaid, Unemployment, and Workers' Compensation that costs New Yorkers billions each year. The impact this has on businesses prevents re-investment and expansion - which translates to high unemployment rates. This is an area that should be closely examined and will result in significant savings to the taxpayers of our state. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: The majority of people in the 135th Assembly District have clearly spoken out against hydro-fracking, saying that the risks outweigh the benefits, 47% to 39%, with 14% unsure of their position. I would support the majority who favor enacting a moratorium that would prohibit the use of hydro-fracking in New York State for the next 12 months in order to further study the potential impact of this method of drilling, and vote for legislation imposing a moratorium. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: In the past, I have supported campaign finance reform, and introduced and co-sponsored several bills in the Assembly addressing this issue. The Assembly


has recently announced a bill creating a voluntary public finance system for state offices. I would like to see some minor changes to this bill to make it more palatable.

NY Assembly District 136 New district: Includes sections of Rochester (Monroe County).


Joseph D. Morelle Party: DEM, IND Questions: Candidate had no response



David F. Gantt Party: DEM Biographical Info: Parties: Democratic Education: Roberts Wesleyan College Experience and Qualifications: I have served the people of the 133rd now the 137th Assembly District for 30 years. In that time I have been a strong advocate for those that are less fortunate. I

have worked to bring new businesses and jobs to the region. I have also worked to make sure that our roads and bridges are repaired and structurally sound. I have secured billions of dollars for the Rochester region. My tenure and experience makes me the right person to lead the 137th District into the future. Key Endorsements: SEIU 1199, Rochester Building Trade Unions, Rochester Ministers Alliance and a host of other past and current elected officials Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: 1. To secure more dollars to renovate old school buildings so our children can have a safe place to learn and play. 2. To Empower Parents through Parents Rights Legislation because parents are the child's first teacher. 3. To create new job opportunities for people who live in the 137th Assembly District. This will give people the ability to take care of their families. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: The State should look at becoming the national hub for Green Energy and Green Jobs. The world is looking for more efficient and effective was to operate


businesses and communities. Rochester would be a great place to promote these opportunities because of our educational institutions. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Not at this time. I do not believe there is enough information on the long term health effects of hydrofracking for me to support it at this time. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: - no response –

Andrew P. Langdon

Party: GRN Biographical Info: Parties: Green Campaign Web Site: www.drewlangdon.org Education: Houghton College, English & Sociology; Empire State College, Social Theory & Change Experience and Qualifications: Citizen Activist; Co-Founder,

Rochester Organization for Workplace Democracy Key Endorsements: National Lavender Green Caucus Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: The planks of my campaign boil down to three priorities: environmental sustainability and regeneration, citizen participation in a grassroots democracy, and a cooperative economic system. These pillars of the Green Party are sorely lacking in our state government at the moment, and my election would mean that these necessary systemic changes would finally be addressed in Albany, as well as in Rochester. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Our governments must end the subsidization of Wall Street, and instead build an economy that puts the people and planet before profits. Using the Mondragon Cooperative in Spain as our model, I would work to establish a fund for the development of worker-owned cooperatives across the state, as well as provide for the buy-out of existing businesses by their employees. Introducing democracy into the workplace will ensure that decisions are for the good of the community rather than a few. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: This question really needs no other answer than no. An absolute ban on hydraulic fracturing must be instituted until the unlikely event that this process can be proven safe for our ecosystems and water supplies. Instead of putting our energy into developing natural gas, a limited resource, we should instead be


focusing on building our capacity for renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, geothermal, hemp biofuels, etc. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I support full public financing of election campaigns. Currently we have a system where candidates are required to spend their time fundraising, and then once in office answering to those who have funded their campaigns. This has led to the sale of our government to the highest bidder, locking out the voices of ordinary citizens and minority parties. If every ballot-qualified candidate were given a set level of funds for their campaign, they could return to real issues, such as ending poverty.



Harry B. Bronson Party: DEM, WF, IND

Biographical Info: Parties: Member of Democratic Party. Also appearing on the Working Families Party and Independence Party. Campaign Web Site: www.bronsonforassembly.com Education: J.D. University at Buffalo, Law School Experience and Qualifications: Harry's passion for social justice, equality and fairness has defined both his public service, legal and business careers. Service to community was instilled into Harry at an early age, and as one of twelve children, he knows what is is like for a families to make sacrifices. He also knows that working together is how a community and family grow. Harry brings with him years of dedication as a business owner, attorney and public official to the families of Monroe County. Key Endorsements: Monroe County Democrat Party, Independence Party, Working Families Party, NYSUT, Rochester Building Trades, SEIU 200, SEIU 1199, United Auto Workers Region 9, Public Employees Federation, Plumbers and Pipe fitters Local 13, NARAL Pro-Choice New York, New York State Nurses Association, Planned Parenthood, Victory Fund, Empire State Pride Agenda, Monroe County Patrolman’s Benevolent Association Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: Harry’s priorities for our region are to foster growth in private-public investment and build on the successful high-technology employment opportunities such as the securing $68 million for 100 economic development projects, continue the reduction in the tax burden that stifle growth, create greater transparency and accountability at the state and local level and fight for the state to recommit to its obligation to fund public education as well as our institutions of higher education.


Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: The strength of our region is our local economic diversity ability to see occupational trends. Harry would build on state actions that he supported such as investing in our roads and bridges, lowering the cost of energy for businesses, and deliver tax credits that encourage hiring of our youth. He will fight to give tax breaks to small businesses for hiring new workers, eliminate tax breaks for companies that ship jobs overseas, expand investment in high- tech optics and bioscience programs. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Assemblymember Bronson has met with many groups and individualsregarding this issue and is proud of his record on environmental issues having receiving the highest score from Environmental Advocates of any legislator in the Finger Lakes Region. Harry has taken steps to ensure that all necessary steps to protect New Yorkers are at the forefront of this decision that is currently before us. Harry will continue to monitor the discussion and work with my colleagues to ensure a responsible outcome. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: Fair elections are the heart of this country’s democracy and fundamental to preserving good government. The Supreme Court’s Citizens United decision has had devastating effects on federal elections, shining light on the need for New York to reduce the influence of money in our own state elections. That’s why Harry supports legislation that would establish New York State as a national leader in campaign finance reform. The legislation provides a regulatory system of optional public financing.

Peterson A. Vazquez Party: REP, CON Biographical Info: Parties: Republican, Conservative Campaign Web Site: www.vazquezforassembly.com Education: Master of Strategic Leadership, Bachelor of

Organizational Management with Business Emphasis, Various Military and Civilian Leadership Development Certificates Experience and Qualifications: Servant leader with an eye for analyzing and improving complex operational structures. Driven strategist with a proven track record of developing and installing multi-tiered strategies that lead to long-term success. Well-rounded candidate with adept experience in variety of key fields, including tax laws, legal compliance, personnel development and contractor coordination. Organized communicator with unique ability to manage cross-functional teams of employees with various skill sets. Questions:


Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: Education Reform, Economic Development, Protecting Employees Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Begin by eliminating overreaching regulations, eradicate duplication, reduce mandates, and ensure unintended consequences of proposed laws are thoroughly explored. Place formal and informal education in the forefront by working with school administrators, parents and students to find solutions that best fit the educational needs of the community while making NYS an attractive environment for businesses by reducing taxes, encouraging growth and promoting innovation. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I am in favor of reducing our reliance on foreign fuel imports, but the cost associated with environmental and infrastructure requirements, waste management and public safety must be at the expense of the organization acquiring the permit. To ensure laws are passed for the benefit and safety of our community, I will sponsor legislation which prohibits law makers from benefiting financially or otherwise from any Hydraulic Fracturing activities. Transparency is key to ensuring safety. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I am committed to proposing legislation which allows the common person to run for elected office as well as holds elected officials accountable when accepting campaign funds with the intention of providing a “favor” once elected. Enforcement is essential in maintaining a government that is transparent and corruption free.

NY Assembly District 139 New district: Includes Genesee County.Orleans County: All except the Town of Shelby. Monroe County: Towns of Hamlin, Clarkson, Sweden and Riga.


Mark E. Glogowski

Party: LBT Biographical Info: Parties: Libertarian Campaign Web Site: www.GlogowskiForAssembly.com Education: BS degree, University of Rochester, 1967; MS degree, Rochester Institute of Technology, 1972; Ph.D.,

University of Arizona, Tucson, 1976.


Experience and Qualifications: A retired professional with 47 years of experience in chemical, biochemical, environmental, agricultural, bioelectromagnetic, and refuse conversion research; developed a set of political tools for voter’s so they can determine their Worldview and the candidates that share that Worldview; published in The Political Primer: Fundamentals of Politics, Trafford Publishing, Inc, 2011. Held leadership positions in many organizations, clubs, and committees, including as Republican Town Leader. Key Endorsements: Looking forward to the endorsement of those individuals that embrace the Libertarian Worldview. Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: 1. Eliminate the income tax, it is unconstitutional; replace it with a sales tax. 2. Eliminate the real estate tax, it prevents you from enjoying your constitutional right to own property; denies you the security you should enjoy from private property ownership. 3. Remove the undesired features in society’s structure that these taxes promoted: Over compensated public servents, restrictions on homeowners, barriers to businesses, ineffective school districts, legislative system out of control. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Address the following issues: - Since 1913, when the 16th amendment authorized the income tax, governments have just taken what they wanted from business profits, causing many businesses to fail. - Lotto is an aid to localities in reverse program. it negatively impacts the economy. - The Thruway toll is a barrier to doing business in upstate NY. - Business regulations & zoning codes produce empty buildings across the state, cause productive people to give up, and businesses to leave NY Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Hydrofracking offers the promise of large amounts of clean, inexpensive energy. Where appropriate steps are taken to protect the environment, such as recycling waste water, I support the implementation of the technology. But, as are many, I am skeptical. Have all negative environmental impacts have been disclosed? Will it increase or decrease earthquake damage? Now is the time to study these issues, as the technlogy is carefully implemented, not later with first hand crisis produced information Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: Remove contribution limits for individuals donating to candidates in the political district they live in. [it is their money, their representative]. Do not allow candidates to accept out of district donations from individuals, organizations, or companies. Allow NY state wide unions and NY corporations to donate only to state wide races. Let them donate without limit. Prohibit all donations from all nation wide unions and ‘out of state’ (foreign) corporations.

Stephen M. Hawley


Party: REP, CON, IND Questions: Candidate had no response

NY Assembly District 140 Members of the New York State Assembly are concerned with issues at the state level. They enact laws, pass a state budget, and discuss public policy issues. Term: 2 years - Salary: $79,500


Charles M. Gilbert Party: REP Biographical Info: Education: Graduate of Tonawanda High School. Experience and Qualifications: Two years on City of Tonawanda Common Council, member of City of Tonawanda Youth Board and Central PTSA, coach in Little League baseball and football and former softball coach and past member of the St. Francis of Assisi Parish Council. Key Endorsements: CWA, IBEW Local 41, Ron Pilozzi, Robert Ortt, Carl Paladino, Erie County Republican Committee.

Campaign Web Site: www.facebook.com/#!/groups/419048684795455/ Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? What action do you plan to take on your number one priority? A: Reduce legislators' salaries by 10 percent, and if forced to take a pay increase, I will donate that amount to local organizations that need the money more than I do. Next, work on easing taxes and regulations on businesses. And finally, lobby for this district for the Billion for Buffalo funding. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Lower corporate tax rates across the board. They should be on par with the southern states who have been building new businesses for years while we've driven them away. More businesses means more jobs. More jobs means more tax revenue, and more tax revenue will end the days of taxing and spending. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I'm in favor hydrofracking, with smart regulations and smart legislation that would both protect land owners and offer the best way for companies to invest in this increasingly popular energy source. Companies should be made to put money in escrow to pay for any problems that arise in the project. Q: Campaign Finance: Millions of dollars are spent in New York State each year to influence politicians. What concrete changes to campaign finance regulation


and enforcement in New York State do you propose to get money out of politics? A: Sunshine is the best disinfectant, so to me, making all campaign donations public, via the Internet or on the legislator's own web page, would be a way to create accountability, and would educate voters prior to heading into the polling place as to who supports a candidate and why. Q: Climate Smart Communities, a program sponsored by five New York State agencies saves energy, reduces greenhouse gases, improves quality of life and saves taxpayers money. How will you use your position to encourage the communities in your district to participate in this program? A: As an electrician, I am a proponent of Energy Star light usage, and would proudly support or offer any legislation that rewards those who switch to energy efficient lighting. It's better for the environment and it's better for the state's bottom line.

Robin Schimminger Party: DEM, CON, IND Biographical Info: Education: Mr. Schimminger earned a Bachelor of Arts degree at Canisius College where he was inducted into the DiGamma and Alpha Sigma Nu Honor Societies.He received his Juris Doctor degree from the New York University School of Law and subsequently admitted to the Bar. Experience and Qualifications: He chairs the Assembly

Committee on Economic Development, Job Creation, Commerce and Industry. He also serves as Assembly Dean of the Western New York Delegation. He has sponsored and played key roles in enacting measures to boost job creation and improve the tax and regulatory climate. Key Endorsements: PEF, ABC, perfect score from Unshackle Upstate and top 92 % rating from the Business Council of NYS Campaign Web Site: www.robinschimminger.com Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? What action do you plan to take on your number one priority? A: 1. Make New York State a more hospitable place to do business and grow jobs. The cost burdens of taxes, fees, regulations and paperwork need to be more in line with other states. 2. My second priority is to reduce taxes. 3. Continue to better position our region to advance in the global economy. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: We must continue to invest in education and higher education. I was successful in obtaining seed funding for and the designation of a new Center of Excellence in Materials Informatics at UB. We also need to support the Innovate NY and SBIR programs and use the $1 billion for Buffalo wisely.


Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I support hydrofracking with the appropriate safeguards to ensure the safety of our environment. Q: Campaign Finance: Millions of dollars are spent in New York State each year to influence politicians. What concrete changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State do you propose to get money out of politics? A: I will continue to support meaningful campaign finance reform. This session, I voted for two bills in both the Codes and Ways & Means committees; A9885-D, which provides for public financing of state offices, and A8367-A, which would enact the comptroller campaign finance reform act. Q: Climate Smart Communities, a program sponsored by five New York State agencies saves energy, reduces greenhouse gases, improves quality of life and saves taxpayers money. How will you use your position to encourage the communities in your district to participate in this program? A: Since this is a newer program, the first step is to inform and educate community leaders about the importance of programs that can be implemented to create greener communities.



Ricky T. Donovan Sr Party: REP, IND Questions: The Candidate did not respond

Crystal D. Peoples Party: DEM, WF Questions: The Candidate did not respond




Michael P. Kearns Party: DEM, REP, CON, WF Questions: The Candidate did not respond



Frank M. DeCarlo Party: REP Biographical Info: Education: Some college 2001 graduate University of Buffalo Core Program CEL Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership. Experience and Qualifications: Businessman for over 35 years, I hold the designation of Certified Restorer which is the highest designation attainable in the insurance restoration profession. I am one of 530 in the world.

Key Endorsements: Endorsed Republican Candidate Campaign Web Site: n/a Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? What action do you plan to take on your number one priority? A: Work to eliminate wasteful spending in Albany and expose members of the Assembly who are blocking true reform for Western New York. Clean house on ridiculous regulations that are job killers for Western New York Look to eliminate the excessive taxation of New York residents. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Eliminate the ridiculous regulations on small business that kills jobs, namely the Scaffold Law, Wicks law and the Triburrough Amendment. The reform of these three laws would increase job growth in New York by at least 40% Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: There are many pros & cons on this subject.If Hydraulic Fracturing provides a substantial benefit to us as consumers and in doing so conserves the environment in the process then why not?


Q: Campaign Finance: Millions of dollars are spent in New York State each year to influence politicians. What concrete changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State do you propose to get money out of politics? A: Money is the mothers milk of politics. Every politician at some point will be influenced by special interest. It is up to that person to vote his/her conscious on issues that are best for the state and their district. Q: Climate Smart Communities, a program sponsored by five New York State agencies saves energy, reduces greenhouse gases, improves quality of life and saves taxpayers money. How will you use your position to encourage the communities in your district to participate in this program? A: As a mold remediation expert I know that eliminating one problem brings up another to deal with in air quality. This is a subject I am not too sure I have an answer for that would be fair to all parties concerned.

Dennis H. Gabryszak Party: DEM, CON, IND

Biographical Info: Education: UB School of Business Erie Community College Bishop Ryan High School Experience and Qualifications: Citicorp, Assistant Vice President 1977-1988 Village of Depew Trustee - 1981-1983 Town of Cheektowaga Councilman 1984-1993 Town of Cheektowaga Supervisor 1993-2006 NYS Assemblyman, 143rd District 2007-Present Key Endorsements: New York State Nurses Association Buffalo Building Trades Council UAW Region 9 Campaign Web Site: www.dennisgabryszak.com Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? What action do you plan to take on your number one priority? A: 1) Economy, Private Sector Job Growth and IDA Reform 2) Tourism Expansion 3) Domestic Violence Prevention and Advocacy Reduce onerous regulations on business. Getting the WNY Power Proceeds Advisory Board to begin its work. Identify collaborative solutions for IDA reform. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Make funding available to start up companies to assist them in getting through the valley of death and help them commercialize their research. Provide incentives to have products derived from research in New York be manufactured in the state. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I have voted to extend the moratorium on hydraulic fracturing. I have staff dedicated to researching this issue. If the state does allow "fracking," I want to see the most rigorous environmental regulation possible.


Q: Campaign Finance: Millions of dollars are spent in New York State each year to influence politicians. What concrete changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State do you propose to get money out of politics? A: Even though I believe that there should be greater transparency and disclosure of campaign finance, I don't believe that political campaigns should be publicly funded. Q: Climate Smart Communities, a program sponsored by five New York State agencies saves energy, reduces greenhouse gases, improves quality of life and saves taxpayers money. How will you use your position to encourage the communities in your district to participate in this program? A: I work to protect the environment. This is illustrated by the fact that I was endorsed by the New York League of Conservation Voters. I will promote the Climate Smart Communities program while encouraging cost effective solutions that residents can afford.



Jane L. Corwin

Party: REP, CON, IND Biographical Info: Education: Bachelor’s Degree SUNY Albany, MBA Pace University Experience and Qualifications: President and Founder of the Philip M. and Jane Lewis Corwin Foundation, President of the Josephine Goodyear Committee at the Women and Children’s

Hospital of Buffalo; Confirmation Leader at Zion Lutheran Church & a Member of the Grant Review Committee for Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo Campaign Web Site: www.janecorwin.com Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? What action do you plan to take on your number one priority? A: Across the State, families are having dinner table discussions about making ends meet. As a mother of 3 children, I want to leave them with a strong economy that will give them opportunities to be successful. Creating Jobs, Economic Recovery & Improving NY's Business climate are top priorities Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: I know that in order to ensure economic growth, both now and for our children’s future, we must truly change the way our state does business. We


need to create a new culture in Albany that can compete with other states and offer employers a lower cost for doing business. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: To ensure that Hydraulic Fracturing will not negatively effect our environment we must regulate the industry to the maximum standards of safety, health & quality control. If done safely, it could bring a multibillion dollar industry that would create hundreds of long term quality jobs all across NYS Q: Campaign Finance: Millions of dollars are spent in New York State each year to influence politicians. What concrete changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State do you propose to get money out of politics? A: I support a transparent process and the disclosure of all contributions regardless of the amount. I believe that elected officials have an obligation to remain objective when casting any vote or creating any policy while in office, and must avoid all conflicts of interest that compromise their duty. Q: Climate Smart Communities, a program sponsored by five New York State agencies saves energy, reduces greenhouse gases, improves quality of life and saves taxpayers money. How will you use your position to encourage the communities in your district to participate in this program? A: Having a diverse American produced energy portfolio will allow time to properly research, develop and maximize the use of renewable and clean energy sources. I support clean energy initiatives that will ultimately create sustainable energy sources that will benefit our economy and environment.



John D. Ceretto Party: REP, CON, IND Biographical Info: Education: B.A. and Masters from Niagara University, LaSalle High School Experience and Qualifications: NYS Assemblyman (District 138) 2011-Present, Niagara County Legislator 2005-2011, Lewiston Town Councilman 1993-2005. Key Endorsements: NYS Fire Fighters, NYS Teachers, Laborers Local 91, George Maziarz,Carl Paladino Campaign Web Site: www.johnceretto.com

Questions:


Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? What action do you plan to take on your number one priority? A: My top priority is jobs. I’ve worked hard for local jobs. I’ve helped grow tourism with Nik Wallenda. I’ve fought hard to make sure WNY gets more low cost power from the Power Authority to build manufacturing. More priorities are economic development and putting a local rep. on the Power Authority. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: New York has done better lately. We cut taxes and we formed Economic Development. We now need to ensure that we hire New Yorkers to build buildings and our roads/bridges. We can’t send those jobs out of state. We must be business friendly. We can’t raise tolls, we need tax credits and innovation. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I voted for a moratorium on fracking so the Dept. of Environmental Conservation could conduct a study. I’m eager for the DEC its results. I ensured that fracking won’t come to Niagara Falls by appointing a member to the Niagara Falls Water Board who voted against a lawsuit to bring fracking here. Q: Campaign Finance: Millions of dollars are spent in New York State each year to influence politicians. What concrete changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State do you propose to get money out of politics? A: I support very strict disclosure measures for donations. I do not support however, using taxpayer dollars to finance elections. New Yorkers should not be paying for political materials with their hard earned tax dollars. I have voted for strict new ethics laws for politicians. Q: Climate Smart Communities, a program sponsored by five New York State agencies saves energy, reduces greenhouse gases, improves quality of life and saves taxpayers money. How will you use your position to encourage the communities in your district to participate in this program? A: I have a history of support for the environment. I started the first prescription recycling program in WNY. I’m supportive of “NY Sun”, which provides businesses incentives to produce solar energy. I’m also interested in pursing avenues to bring a recycling program to our agriculture industry.

Robert M. Restaino Party: DEM, WF Biographical Info: Education: BA Niagara Univ. JD SUNY@Buffalo School of Law Experience and Qualifications: Practicing attorney for over 25 years, current school board member,former medicaid fraud specialist, former municipal judge

Key Endorsements: Niag Co Bldg Trades,UAW-Reg 9,NY Nurses,WNY Teamsters,CWA/AFL-CIO,IUEC,MC Slaughter,Higgins,Hocul Campaign Web Site: www.restaino145.com


Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? What action do you plan to take on your number one priority? A: 1.Improve WNY economy by providing mandate relief,reducing the cost of state govt 2.Cut cost in govt programs such as medicaid by redesigning the managed care program to cut its costs this will free revenue for tax/debt reduction job creation 3.Lower power cost for residents and businesses Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Reduce state mandates to take burdens off local govt,evaluate state regulations and programs which hinder investment and small business growth,state contracts should be NYS job supporters and finally state should continue to focus on new high tech industries-solar panel production,high tech R&D Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Not without the necessary regs to protect the workers,water source,environment homeowners in region of work. The waste fluid needs to be properly disposed. The space provided doesn't allow full discussion of the legislation needed to ensure safety and protect NYers the industry should pay costs Q: Campaign Finance: Millions of dollars are spent in New York State each year to influence politicians. What concrete changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State do you propose to get money out of politics? A: Assembly bills-A5279- have been proposed which are good first steps.Campaign finance reform should be tied to term limits which would remove entrenched officials and special interests from creating alliances damaging to the public interest and confidence in govt. Q: Climate Smart Communities, a program sponsored by five New York State agencies saves energy, reduces greenhouse gases, improves quality of life and saves taxpayers money. How will you use your position to encourage the communities in your district to participate in this program? A: A great program and some communities in my area are already part of it. I would work closely with city/town govts to participate in this program as their needs would permit.The 145th district has the beautiful Niagara Falls and river and all the communities should do everything to protect it.

NY Assembly District 146 Members of the New York State Assembly are concerned with issues at the state level. They enact laws, pass a state budget, and discuss public policy issues. Term: 2 years - Salary: $79,500 (The Independence candidate has not yet been determined.)



Joanne A. Schultz Party: DEM, IND Biographical Info: Education: University at Buffalo Law School /J.D Harvard University/ Certificate in Business Studies University of Illinois at Chicago, B.A. Experience and Qualifications: My legal practice is focused primarily in the field of consumer law. I represent retirees, widows and divorcees in disputes against the financial industry and people who have fallen on hard times file bankruptcy. My

goal is to preserve the hard fought rights of these citizens. Key Endorsements: I am in the process of obtaining endorsements. Campaign Web Site: www.joanneschultzforassembly.com Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? What action do you plan to take on your number one priority? A: Support consumer protection legislation. Require true transparency for elected officials. Protect government programs designed to creat a safety net for citizens in need. I will introduce and support legislation which would place more emphasis on consumer and citizen protections. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Provide funding for the improvement of the state's infrastructure and remove unecessary bureaucratic barriers for investors willing to provide funding for projects that make sense to the citizens of New York State. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: I believe there are some serious concerns with respect to the safety and health effects of horizontal hydraulic fracturing. These concerns have to be addressed properly by analyzing the available data and then structuring appropriate legislation to address these issues. Q: Campaign Finance: Millions of dollars are spent in New York State each year to influence politicians. What concrete changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State do you propose to get money out of politics? A: I suport public funding of campaigns. The current system allows money to buy political seats and influence policy. It is practically impossible for decent, competent people to run for office unless they raise thousands of dollars. It should be unacceptable to our citizens. Q: Climate Smart Communities, a program sponsored by five New York State agencies saves energy, reduces greenhouse gases, improves quality of life and saves taxpayers money. How will you use your position to encourage the communities in your district to participate in this program?


A: Ensuring that the program is being utilitzed effectively by the Town of Amherst and Pendelton.

Raymond W. Walter Party: REP, CON, IND Biographical Info: Education: J.D., Magna Cum Laude, University at Buffalo Law School, B.A., State University of New York at Geneseo Experience and Qualifications: Serving my first year in the NYS Assembly, I served 3 years in the Erie County Legislature. I am a practicing attorney assisting people with their Elder Law and Estate Planning needs. I also have 10 years of sales and

management experience. I'm a husband and a father of two wonderful little boys. Key Endorsements: Unshackle Upstate, The Business Council of New York, NFIB-Small Business Association Campaign Web Site: www.ElectRayWalter.com Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? What action do you plan to take on your number one priority? A: My top priority is job creation. I will support, sponsor and work to pass a comprehensive pro-job/pro-growth agenda that will lower taxes and reduce regulations on small businesses and manufacturers. We also need to stop the unfunded mandates that drive up our property taxes. Invest in education. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: I've sponsored numerous bills such as A.10364-the “BizBoom” business startup program that will cut taxes and fees for new businesses and A.10419-Creating the “Division of Regulatory Review & Economic Growth” to review and make binding recommendations for the elimination job-killing regulations. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Hydraulic Fracturing is something that's been done safely in NY for more than 50 years. It has the potential for huge economic benefits as we have seen in PA. We need to work closely with the DEC and give them the resources they need to ensure that high-volume horizontal fracturing proceeds safely. Q: Campaign Finance: Millions of dollars are spent in New York State each year to influence politicians. What concrete changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State do you propose to get money out of politics? A: The best way to get money out of politics is to reduce the size of government. With so much at stake special interests pour money into campaigns trying to protect all of the policies and programs that benefit them. We also need to focus on the enforcement of campaign finance disclosure rules.


Q: Climate Smart Communities, a program sponsored by five New York State agencies saves energy, reduces greenhouse gases, improves quality of life and saves taxpayers money. How will you use your position to encourage the communities in your district to participate in this program? A: The Town of Amherst already participates in the Climate Smart Community Program. I will continue to work with Town officials in both Pendleton and Amherst to ensure they have the resources and information necessary to take full advantage of the program.



Christina M. Abt Party: DEM, WF, IND Biographical Info: Education: Daemen College, completed Freshman Year Experience and Qualifications: Former Media Specialist for Erie County Legislature, District Office Mgr for Erie County Legislators (both Democratic and Republican,) Eden Chamber of Commerce President. Key Endorsements: Women's Tap Fund, UAW Region 9, CWA 1168, WNY Dems for Progress Campaign Web Site: www.abtforassembly.com

Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? What action do you plan to take on your number one priority? A: Promote agricultural land protection. Propose new tax laws to encourage new development/investment. Stop outsourcing state contracts that promote jobs outside NYS. Propose additional incentives to encourage hiring of unemployed. Use my background to promote agriculture as significant state economy. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Reduce the number of state authorities in NYS. Offer short term tax abatement incentives for property improvements, allowing business and homeowners to reinvest in their properties without immediately raising their taxes. Raise the minimum pre-tax, taxable income. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Find trustworthy,independent info. on fracking that will allow us to decide how to best move forward in ensuring the safety of New York State’s highly


valuable fresh water supply. Information must be readily available for the public, then we need to enact the proper legislation in accordance w/data. Q: Campaign Finance: Millions of dollars are spent in New York State each year to influence politicians. What concrete changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State do you propose to get money out of politics? A: Institute small donor public matching funds by lowering campaign donation limits/unlimited contributions. Give NYS Board of Elections more resources to investigate/prosecute violators of campaigning filing regulations. Strengthen enforcement of campaign finance laws. Q: Climate Smart Communities, a program sponsored by five New York State agencies saves energy, reduces greenhouse gases, improves quality of life and saves taxpayers money. How will you use your position to encourage the communities in your district to participate in this program? A: Review benchmarks established by the program and if none have been established, work to initiate them. Look at legislation to require benchmarks be met by communities. Ensure information about such programs are fully shared and government funding/programming for green initiatives is fully shared.

David J. DiPietro Party: REP, CON Biographical Info: Education: Wittenburg University, Springfield Ohio B.S. Business Administration Experience and Qualifications: Mayor Village of East Aurora Trustee Village of East Aurora Business Owner employing over a dozen people Key Endorsements: Republican Party Conservative Party Campaign Web Site: www.Dipietroforyou.com

Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? What action do you plan to take on your number one priority? A: 1. Welfare to workfare. Drug testing for all recipients. Fingerprinting and residency requirements 2. Eliminate the gas tax 3. reduce taxes and regulations on all businesses Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Eliminate the corporate tax and manufacturing taxes to keep businesses in NYS instead of moving. Cut the regulations on businesses that prohibit hiring. elimonate the gas tax to promote tourism and commerce Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Need more info. Q: Campaign Finance: Millions of dollars are spent in New York State each year to influence politicians. What concrete changes to campaign finance regulation


and enforcement in New York State do you propose to get money out of politics? A: Limit the contribution amount to each candidate Q: Climate Smart Communities, a program sponsored by five New York State agencies saves energy, reduces greenhouse gases, improves quality of life and saves taxpayers money. How will you use your position to encourage the communities in your district to participate in this program? A: need more info

NY Assembly District 148 New district: Includes Cattaraugus and Allegany Counties. Steuben County: Towns of Greenwood, Jasper, West Union and Troupsburg.


Daniel J. Brown Party: DEM, WF Questions: Candidate had no response

Joseph M. Giglio Party: REP, CON, IND Questions: Candidate had no response



Joseph Mascia Party: CON Questions: The Candidate did not respond


Sean Ryan Party: DEM, WF Biographical Info: Education: SUNY College at Fredonia & Brooklyn Law School Experience and Qualifications: I worked as a public interest lawyer, serving underrepresented communities. I worked with PUSH Buffalo and created the Buffalo Neighborhood Stabilization Company to revitalize houses subjected to years of neglect. Since being elected, I have pushed for waterfront revitalization and economic equality Key Endorsements: Police Benevolent Assoc., Buffalo

Teachers Fed., Stonewall Dems, and numerous org. labor groups. Campaign Web Site: www.seanmryan.com Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? What action do you plan to take on your number one priority? A: Our current and future work force must have employment opportunities which provide high-quality jobs. Waterfront development must continue to move forward, to create jobs and new growth for our area. State funding to schools and community colleges increased in 2012, and this should continue. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: We need a highly skilled work force that is prepared for the economy of the future. Regional economic growth is key to job development in WNY. Bringing green technology jobs and improving our economic infrastructure will increase the number of job opportunities in Buffalo, Lackawanna, and Hamburg. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: NY should not rush to approve fracking. As an Assemblyman, I fought to pass various bills concerning fracking. I helped to pass a fracking moratorium, a bill to force companies to disclose what is in fracking water, and a bill to ban transportation of that chemically treated water. Q: Campaign Finance: Millions of dollars are spent in New York State each year to influence politicians. What concrete changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State do you propose to get money out of politics? A: Reforming campaign finance laws in NY is vital to the democratic process. The fact that an individual can donate more to a state official than to a national representative is a problem. Ensuring that money plays a smaller role in campaigns will increase the public's trust in their elected officials. Q: Climate Smart Communities, a program sponsored by five New York State agencies saves energy, reduces greenhouse gases, improves quality of life and


saves taxpayers money. How will you use your position to encourage the communities in your district to participate in this program? A: I will use my position to push green technology and educated the public about new environmental programs. Many times people look at unsuccessful past programs and are wary of new approaches. Answering their concerns and providing sufficient information remains vitally important.

NY Assembly District 150 New district: Includes Chautauqua County.


Andrew Goodell Party: REP, CON, IND Biographical Info: Parties: Republican and Conservative. Won the Independence Party primary on September 13, 2012, with over 57% of the vote. Campaign Web Site: www.andygoodell.com Education: Maple Grove High School salutatorian. Williams College, BA in Political Economy (economics and political science)

and BA in Mathematics; College Council; Berkshire Symphony. Cornell Law School, J.D. degree, magna cum laude, Cornell Law Review, American Jurisprudence Award in Administrative Law, Order of the Coif. Experience and Qualifications: County Executive 1990-1997, cut tax rates 6 years in a row with record fund balance, cut unemployment rates, and created Fire Service Enhancement Fund. Managing partner of Goodell & Rankin 1998- present, focusing on business law, real estate, and civil litigation. State Assemblyman 2010-present, two on-time budgets with no tax increases, lowest middle class tax rates in 58 years, property tax cap, new ethics law, strong support for agriculture, Chautauqua Lake funding, and welfare reform. Key Endorsements: NYS Business Council- Second highest ranked Assemblyman in 2011. Farm Bureau- 2011 Circle of Friends. National Federation of Independent Business- 2010 endorsement. Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: 1. Improve the job market to increase the tax base, provide more personal disposable income, and enable our children to stay and work in Chautauqua County. 2. Reduce taxes and fees on individuals and businesses to reduce the burden of government on local residents and create a more business competitive area. 3. Reform welfare by removing those who are capable but unwilling to work, allow random drug testing, prohibit use of welfare for gambling and adult stores, and reform Medicaid.


Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: The State must become more business competitive by reducing taxes and fees, reducing excessive regulations, reforming workers compensation and unemployment, reducing the cost of health care, and cutting utility costs. I am sponsoring a bill to reduce State mandates on health insurance policies and cut health care taxes, fees, and assessments by $4.32 Billion, which would dramatically cut the cost of health care for small businesses and individuals and make New York more business competitive. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Hydraulic fracturing should be allowed in accordance with strict environmental standards developed by DEC scientists. Natural gas production results in valuable landowner royalties and free gas, lower utility rates, more jobs, and reduced air emissions. Natural gas is key for the proposed $700 million upgrade of the Dunkirk NRG plant. Fracking has been done safely in Chautauqua County for over 60 years with about 5,000 wells, and can be done safely in other areas as well. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I oppose increasing taxes by millions of dollar to pay for political campaigns. However, I support campaign finance reforms that would prohibit those with pending legislation from making campaign donations, apply the same donation limits on both unions and corporations, and ensure full campaign disclosure.

Rudy Mueller Party: DEM, WF Biographical Info: Parties: Democratic, Working Families Party Campaign Web Site: www.DrRudy4NY.com Education: B.S.,Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 1979. M.D, Ohio State University

College of Medicine, Columbus Ohio 1982. Internal Medicine Residency, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 1982-5. Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Geriatrics 1985-present. Experience and Qualifications: Chautauqua County Legislator 2008-2011. Assistant Majority Leader Legislature 2009. Minority Leader Legislature 2010-2011. Faculty member SUNY at Buffalo School of Medicine, Assistant Professor in Department Family Practice. Author- "As Sick As It Gets" Key Endorsements: New York State United Teachers Questions: Q: Priorities: What will be your top three priorities if elected? A: 1)To make New York State(NYS) government run more efficiently and effectively providing better services to its residents at a lower cost. NYS must become more business friendly to overcome the economic slowdown and deliver


greater opportunity for all New Yorkers. 2) To make healthcare less costly, more efficient and of high quality for all legal residents. To provide high quality public education for our children at a reasonable cost. 3) To enact major campaign finance reform. Q: Economy: What should the state government do to strengthen the state economy and reduce unemployment? A: Should reduce unnecessary regulation placed on small and large businesses, lower the costs of healthcare placed on businesses and make major investments in education and infrastructure throughout New York State. We can attract and develop new industries and technologies while also striving to achieve energy independence and still protect our environment. Q: Hydraulic Fracturing: Do you favor introducing high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing in New York? What legislation is needed to ensure safety, manage costs and protect New Yorkers? A: Our nation must become energy independent. I support all forms of "clean energy" technologies, which may include "hydrofracking." Well paying jobs would be created and natural gas could deliver significant "cleaner" energy resources. However I have some reservations on the potential for serious harm to rural NYS's freshwater supplies and other possible unknown consequences. I would support the decision on hydrofracking being left to the local community, possibly at a County level. Q: Campaign Finance: Would you propose any changes to campaign finance regulation and enforcement in New York State? Please explain your answer. A: I call for the partial public financing of elections and agree with Governor Cuomo's proposal, Assembly Bill A-09885, the 2012 Fair Elections Act, or a reasonable compromise. It's also time to end special interests groups' control over our elected officials. During my campaign I will not take any special interest money. I also call on all incumbent Legislators to stop using tax-payer money to pay for direct mailings to their constituents. Responses received after October 1, 2012 may be viewed online at Vote411.org


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