Cuomo Rumored to be Considering 2010 Run for Governor

With Gov. Spitzer's tanking numbers in the polls these days and Cuomo's numbers that seem to keep going up, people are speculating over a possible primary run in 2010. For purpose of full disclosure there is no bigger supporter of Andrew Cuomo than myself, I worked on his campaign for AG and I supported him as a very young Democrat at Miller Middle School for Governor the first time around, with that being said Cuomo should stay put. Nothing is to be gained by trying to unseat an incumbent governor especially someone like Elliot Spitzer.

Gov. Spitzer a self proclaimed f-ing steamroller has had his faults but a lot has been accomplished and I think Spitzer's numbers will climb back to about 65 percent come next year. When you're a leader and a reformer like our Governor, there are a lot of decisions that have to be made that are not always popular but make no mistake about it they are necessary.

Andrew Cuomo, who most likely has no real intention of running for anything but reelection as AG, has a bright future in NY politics and his time for higher office will come.

DiBella Taken to School

Majority Leader Reynolds will keep his post after DiBella has announced she is not going to challenge the senior Democrat from Kingston's 7th ward. In reality DiBella never had a shot at taking taking the leadership position away from Reynolds to begin with but that is neither here nor there. We congratulate Reynolds on his reelection to the leadership post...it's well deserved.

DiBella, the Majority Whip, paid the price for her attempt to betray Reynolds, our congratulations to Jennifer Ringwood the new Majority Whip. If DiBella had spent a little more time at the Tom Hoffay School of Poli Scie, she would of known, Politics 101, don't go for a leadership position or release a piece of legislation unless you know ahead of time you have the votes. This should be the end of it, lesson learned, January 1st it's time to do the people's business.

Cahill Drafted for Exec?????

I got an e-mail about a new group that has formed called " Draft Cahill for County Executive", according to the group they are a private group of citizens that feel Assemblyman Cahill is the best man for the County's newly formed Executive position. The site is not affiliated with Kevin Cahill or his campaign committee. They have an interesting website and it's apparent they are serious and have dedicated a great deal of time to the cause : Cahill for Executive

Assemblyman Kevin Cahill, meanwhile, has stated that he will wait until spring to make a decision on whether or not to run. I must say, I agree. With the recent d.a.'s race and the party leadership in shambles I think it's best that the party has time to heal before they digest a new race.

Enjoy your holidays and we'll talk shop in March...for all you political junkies out there that need their fix, there is always Blaber's News and Commentary to keep you up to date.

In it to Win it : Hein Enters Race for Executive

Surrounded by family, friends and political allies Michael Hein has officially entered the race for Ulster County Executive, announcing outside the Ulster County court house. The election will take place in a little less than a year Hein has announced unusually early and there will certainly be competition in the next few months from Democrats and Republicans alike. One big relief for Hein is that Sottile is NOT running and apparently is supporting Hein.

There is a double edge sword with Hein's candidacy and that is that he has never run for public office before but that could be a good thing voters may not want a politician in that office but a business person that can lead the county from a buisness stand point, and that is Micheal Hein. Hein has worked successfully in the private and public sector most recently as County Administrator and even his harshest critics are forced to admit that he's done a hell of a job in that position. Hein in his current position has done everything one would want in an elected County Executive: open government, fiscally responsible budgets and accountability.

However, the 800 pound Gorilla in the back of the Ulster County court house that a lot of the local pols seemed to ignore today is will Kevin Cahill run? Cahill already has a group looking to recruit his candidacy (Draft Cahill) Kevin Cahill also has a large history of public service and leadership abilities and will certainly give Hein a run for his money and with his record can beat Hein. Cahill has strong ties to the community and to local labor. It will be interesting to see how this all plays out.

Note: This is not an endorsement of Hein, I think Hein is a worthy contender but it's premature in this stage of the game to support anyone. I urge people to wait and take a look at each candidate carefully before a commitment is made.

Bill Reynolds for Majority Leader

I have heard rumors and rumblings about Fifth Ward Alderwoman Anne Marie DiBella looking to run against Seventh Ward Alderman Bill Reynolds for his position of majority leader, a position that Reynolds has held for many years. I didn't want to comment on it, at hopes that it was untrue and would go away. Unfortunately, according to Hugh Reynolds' column today it appears the rumor is true.

Alderman Reynolds has served this city as the Seventh Ward Alderman and as Majority Leader for many years and is a superb public servant. As a resident of the seventh ward, I can honestly say that he's the best Alderman that a constituent can ask for. I'm involved in politics based on a simple e-mail I sent out to Bill Reynolds years ago. Bill responded promptly and got me involved. Some people may thank Bill for my involvement, others may want to shoot him for it--depending on who you ask. I of course thank him, not just for him helping me out but for the friendship we have shared for the last four years.

Since getting involved, I have walked the ward with him and have seen him in action. He truly cares about Kingston and is someone that I have the utmost respect for. Kingston is lucky to have him and he is far beyond his office.

Alderwoman DiBella is a bright woman who also truly cares about Kingston but in my opinion is too arrogant and power hungry. It takes a lot of gaul on DiBella's part to challenge a person that has done so much for her and for the Democratic caucus. I respectfully submit that Mrs. DiBella is wrong for that leadership position at this time. Keep in mind she is already in a leadership position as Majority Whip and I don't think she should even hold that spot.

Alderman Reynolds has dedicated his professional life to the city of Kingston first, and to his party second. I urge the Kingston common council's Democratic caucus to return Bill Reynolds to a leadership position.

Michael Hein Running for County Executive

Surprise Surprise, Michael Hein is going to run for County Executive and will announce his candidacy tomorrow at 1pm. Michael Hein is a great guy and has proven leadership in the county after presenting two fiscally sound budgets and bringing accountability to our government. Hein will likely face some opposition from his fellow Democrats. Make no mistake about it, the D.A.'s race will seem like child's play compared to this race, which essentially is the most powerful position in Ulster County.

I will have more on this race tomorrow, it is my sincere hope that the Democratic party has time to heal and work together so that we do not have a repeat of November 2007. I'm not committing to any candidate this early but I do wish Mr. Hein a lot of luck, he is a worthy contender.

GO AWAY, ALREADY!!!!!!

Richard Cahill, the one term wonder from Kingston's sixth ward who lost his bid for mayor to incumbent James Sottile has vowed to stay active in the local political scene with a new blog: Cahill on Kingston, " if the Democrats thought they could get rid of me by beating me in a "close" mayoral election they're sadly mistaken" exclaimed a bitter Cahill. If I'm not mistaken it was the people that got rid of Alderman Cahill, in what was a foolish attempt by the freshman alderman to run against a well seasoned and well funded poltical power house by the name of Jim Sottile. Alderman Cahill would have easily of been getting ready to serve his second term as alderman of ward six.

Cahill immediately has used his blog to take cheap shots at myself and others including the the city, over it's possible funding of a rehabilitation program that helps former felons to become productive members of society. The program (Save Them Now), is run by a nice man by the name of Ronnie Wade who's program has been very successful in it's efforts. Cahill on this issue and many others, simply can't see the forest from the trees and that is why Kingston sent him packing.

Than again, maybe it's me, I have nothing against Rich Cahill except for serious philosophical differences, and if he is contained on a blog and a public access tv show and out of policy making decisions, then I guess I'm satisfied.

Vote on our online poll

All polls are now on the top right hand corner of the blog and run for about a week. This weeks question is : Should Jon Parete Resign as Dem Party Chair?

Clueless

Is this guy really our Elections

Commisioner????????

County Democratic Chairman John Parete, who also is an elections commissioner, said it was "discouraging" not to have had the usual near-complete returns before 11 p.m. Tuesday, but added, "What the hell am I going to do? I don't know how these things work."

Give Jon his Due.

Well, we have a new d.a. and unfortunately it's not Jonathan Sennett. It is however, Holley Carnright who is a nice guy and the county will be well served by him. The Democratic party can blame only itself for not winning that office. If you look at the numbers we must give Jonathan Sennett a lot of credit he lost by only 4500 votes in a three way race with another democrat running. Head to head Sennett would of crushed Carnirght. And, rightfully so, Politics aside, Jon Sennett, is the most honest caring and compassionate person I have ever met and a true gentleman, I'm honored to of met him and to count him as a close friend. I just hope that his experience with a power hungry selfish party does not detract him from running in the future, public service was made for him.

We can all sit here and play Monday morning quarterback about whether the party should of allowed a primary or whether Bradley should of dropped out but the fact of the matter is certain members of the party got to greedy and the in fighting lead to our defeat. We must now look to regroup, obtain new leadership and start the healing process. This must not be allowed to carry over into future elections.

I just hope that without blaming people that we use this race as what can happen when as a party we lose our way.

Judge Gilpatric Fends Off Family Challenge

Judge James P. Gilpatric can rest easy after easily winning the Kingston city judgeship yesterday after beating out his challenger and cousin, Kingston attorney Michael Bruhn Jr., and getting more votes than any other city-wide candidate that ran yesterday. Judge Gilpatric has done wonders for Kingston city court including establishing a court that specifically deals with cases of domestic violence and drug court. A very sincere congratulations to Judge Gilpatric on a well deserved win.

SOTTILE/ NOBLE WINS BIG

The team of Sottile Noble won big last night and I'm happy to see that voters rejected the ideas and beliefs that were offered by his opponent and instead recognized the leadership that Sottile has provided the city the last six years. If the last six where any indication of what's to come than we're in pretty good shape. I congratulate Sottile and the strong veto proof council that we now have. The aldermadic winners on Tuesday were Ringwood, Landi, Whitlock, DiBella, Polocco, Reynolds, Senor and Madsen.

Bob Gillon who was unsuccessful in his bid for sixth ward alderman is a good guy and I congratulate his efforts. Gillon worked hard and pounded the pavement for months and would of made a fine Alderman. The sixth ward has lost out on a real opportunity.

ULSTER -- Congratulations to Nick Woerner and Brian Cahill who both did a great job in their reelection bids. Woerner, while Ulster is lucky to have him, should not be held down in that position, the people would be well served if he leaped on to bigger and better things.

VOTE TODAY, SENNETT FOR DA

Election Day is Tuesday, November 6th, 2007

PLEASE GO TO THE POLLS & VOTE

~ Jonathan Sennett ~
Ulster County District Attorney

SENNETT HAS BEEN ENDORSED BY:

Senator Hillary Clinton (NY-D) --

"Jonathan Sennett's experience as a tough prosecutor in the Bronx and a seasoned defense attorney in the Hudson Valley make him the best choice for Ulster County District Attorney."

Senator Chuck Schumer (NY-D) --

"Jonathan Sennett is a tenacious and proactive prosecutor who will be a first-rate District Attorney for the citizens of Ulster County and its law enforcement professionals."

Eliot Spitzer, NY State Governor --

"The people of Ulster County will be well served with Jonathan Sennett as district attorney….I respect his skills as a prosecutor and his dedication to finding cost-effective ways to reduce crime."
Legislator Tracey Bartels - lead legislative investigator on Ulster County Jail fiasco.

NY State Fraternal Order of Police --

"As police professionals who most experience and witness the trauma and effects of criminal behavior upon our fellow citizens, we understand, all too well, the significance of dedicated public servants as [Jonathan Sennett] who possess the courage and compassion to promote the confidence in our government and courts,"
Hudson Valley Area Labor Federation -- "[Sennett has] a solid track record as a prosecutor and a defense attorney."

Ulster County Democratic Women
NY State Democratic Committee
Ulster County Democratic Committee
The Working Families Party
Ulster Publishing -- Please read the full endorsement here: http://www.ucdw.org/candidates/ulster_publishing_endorsement.html

Jonathan Sennett has earned his endorsements by being the most highly qualified candidate for Ulster County District Attorney.

SENNETT'S RECENT, RELEVANT EXPERIENCE INCLUDES:
BRONX COUNTY D.A.'S OFFICE (1994-1999)

•Led a team of ten assistant district attorneys each handling nearly one hundred misdemeanor cases at all times.

•Conducted hundreds of grand jury investigations in cases ranging from gun possession to homicide.

•Prosecuted violent felonies on behalf of civilian and police victims.

•Served as lead or co-counsel in over thirty felony jury trials in cases ranging from gun possession to homicide.

•Experienced in the fields of ballistics, fingerprints and forensic medicine.

•Served as instructor for New York City Police Department Cadets in trial preparation and testifying techniques during training program at New York City's Police Academy.

PRIVATE PRACTICE (2002-Present)
Assistant Public Defender, Ulster County (March 2006 -Present)

VISION FOR THE FUTURE:

The Courage to Make Needed Changes

•Devote More Resources to Victims of Domestic Violence & Sex Crimes
•Zero Tolerance for Crimes Against Children

•Conduct and Complete a Thorough Investigation of the Ulster County Jail Project
-Unencumbered By Party or Personal Affiliations
-Leave No Stone Unturned
-Lead the Grand Jury to a Just and Fair Conclusion

•Investigate & Prosecute Matters of Public Integrity & Official Corruption

•Modernize and Improve the D.A.'s Office through the Use of Technology in the Office & Courtroom

•Enhance Outreach in the Community

•Improve Communications and Working Relationships with Law Enforcement

•Evaluate Cases Earlier and More Thoroughly For Greater Efficiency

•Utilize Existing Alternatives to Incarceration for Non-Violent Offenders

•Community Based Sentencing

For more info go to: http://www.sennettforda.com/

Election Day is Tuesday, November 6th, 2007.
VOTE and help ensure Ulster County has the best District Attorney!


Thank you,

Friends of Jonathan Sennett

NEWSPAPER SUPPORT

ULSTER PUBLISHING ENDORSES Jonathan Sennett for D.A.

Daily Freeman Endorses Holley Carnright

NO NEWSPAPER PROFESSIONALS SUPPORT Vince Bradley Jr.

Councilman Craig Artist Endorses Woerner for Supervisor

Republican Town Councilman Craig Artist has endorsed Nick Woerner for town of Ulster Supervisor. This is significant because Woerner is a Democrat and Artist a republican and Ulster is a very Republican town. Mr. Artist is going out on a large limb in his support of Supervisor Woerner. That really speaks volumes to the leadership of Mr. Woerner.

www.jeremyblaber.com is back!!!

www.jeremyblaber.com is back, thanks to Robb Kinnin of Netstep Internet services who was able to get my domain from MISK, who has held it hostage after I tried to switch companies almost a year ago. Please bookmark www.jeremyblaber.com and I hope the blog is now easier to access.

Freeman Endorses Sottile for Mayor

Congratulations to the Mayor on this endorsement. Jim Sottile deserves the support of Kingston voters this Tuesday.

The Daily Freeman Endorsement

ULSTER DEM LEADERS: BRADLEY CAMPAIGN MATERIAL INACCURATE

Candidate asked to stop using false endorsements

Town of Ulster: Democratic leaders in two Ulster County towns are objecting to false campaign advertising distributed to voters by Conservative and Independence party candidate Vincent Bradley, Jr. The mailer in question states that Bradley is a "registered Democrat" who has the endorsement of the Town of Ulster and Town of Wawarsing Democratic Committees.

"Mr. Bradley's enrollment in the Democratic Party does not take place until January 1, 2008. To advertise that he is a registered Democrat is not accurate. Accuracy and facts are the foundation of the work done by a district attorney," said Karen Markisenis, Chair of the Town of Ulster Democratic Committee and Vice Chair of the Ulster County Democratic Committee.

Markisenis also refutes Bradley's claim about having a current endorsement from the Town of Ulster and Town of Wawarsing Democratic Committees. "He has neither sought nor received our support following his failure to secure the Democratic nomination in June," said Markisenis.

"Bradley's decision to falsely claim that he has been endorsed by our committee demonstrates a significant lack of judgment and integrity. A small minority of our committee members endorsed him prior to the Democratic convention. Obviously, that endorsement has no effect in the general election. Our committee has not and does not support Bradley's campaign," said Markisenis.

Town of Wawarsing Democratic Chair, Sylvia Kalipolites, said: “He has not asked for, and most certainly has not received, our endorsement in this election. The Democratic candidate is Jonathan Sennett. ”

The Democratic leaders demand that Bradley cease claiming their endorsements and distribute no further campaign literature falsely claiming to have received endorsements he has not received.

"Mr. Bradley tried numerous times to gain the Democratic nomination. He did not succeed. Now he is running a campaign that is likely to interfere with the first election of a Democrat as District Attorney since the Great Depression. He seems fond of saying that the District Attorney's office is above politics. Yet, with his participation in the race, that is all that it has been about," said Markisenis.

Markisenis hopes that Democrats will rally around the party's chosen candidate, Jonathan Sennett. "While Bradley has called into question the integrity of others during this campaign, in reality he has his own issues to deal with. I don't see how Democrats can justify backing a conservative candidate who just wants to spoil this election."

STATE'S LARGEST LAW ENFORCEMENT ASSOCIATION ENDORSES SENNETT FOR DA

The New York State Fraternal Order of Police, the oldest and largest association of law enforcement professionals with over 20,000 statewide, has endorsed Jonathan Sennett for Ulster County District Attorney."As police professionals who most experience and witness the trauma and effects of criminal behavior upon our fellow citizens, we understand, all too well, the significance of dedicated public servants as you who possess the courage and compassion to promote the confidence in our government and courts," said Charles J. Caputo, president of the New York State Fraternal Order of Police Empire State Lodge.

"This endorsement is proof that members of law enforcement agree with my stance on tough prosecution. Drug dealers, gang members and anyone who commits violent, offensive or criminal acts against another person in Ulster County will face tough and appropriate prosecution," said Sennett, the Democratic and Working Families candidate.

MR. INTEGRITY

Vincent Bradley Jr. sent out a really nasty piece of literature that among other things tries to solicit votes by using his late father...how pathetic. The letter pretty much calls Jon Sennett a liar and takes a series of quotes made in local publications that are not only untrue but taken completely out of context. Vincent Bradley needs to remember that he's running for district attorney, the most powerful law enforcement position in the county, not class president. The ad is a sign of desperation from a desperate candidate and voters should be appalled but not surprised by Mr. Bradley's actions.

In the ad, Mr. Bradley talks about electing a candidate with integrity but in the same breath he shows us that he posses absolutely none. The people deserve a d.a. that they can trust and Mr.Bradley presenting forth a series of lies will not sit well with voters next week.


BTW- There also is a letter going around from the Tuchman's that also is full of lies and propaganda. There is also a note on the bottom where it looks as if Tom Hoffey is endorsing the letter..this is not the case. For those of you who have gotten the letter from the Tuchman's please note that Tom Hoffey strongly supports Jonathan Sennett for district attorney.

Mr. Hoffey's response

Just to clear up any misinpression that could be read into your letter. I am strongly backing John Sennett, the Democratic Candidate for Ulster County District Attorney.

For the nine years I served as Chairman, I presided over the county nominating conventions, petitioning process and campaigns. I supported the candidates...all the candidates nominated by the Ulster County Democratic Committee. I expected committee members, representing their election districts, to do the same.

I think John Sennett has brought an intellectual strength to this campaign that makes me enthusiastic in supporting his candidacy for Ulster County District Attorney. I am disappointed that you would use my name, even as a reference point, in your support of a Conservative candidate. Please correct this error.
sincerely,

-Tom