Chairman Kassar’s Weekly Wrap Up 6/21/24

Spring Reception

Our 2024 Spring Reception, held last night at the New York Athletic Club in New York City, was an outstanding success. The event saw a fantastic turnout including a distinguished array of legislators, candidates, conservative activists and dignitaries, all gathering to celebrate and reinforce our shared values and commitment to conservative principles. 

The highlight of the evening was the honoring of our longtime Secretary, Howard Lim, with the prestigious Michael R. Long Award. This award, now in its second year, recognizes exceptional dedication and service to the Conservative Party, and Howard’s contributions over the years have truly embodied these qualities. The presence of the Long family, who attended in support of Howard, added a heartfelt touch to the celebration, underscoring the deep bonds and shared history within our party.

Our reception chairman, and Bronx County Conservative Chairman, Pat McManus, led us in the welcoming ceremony; followed by the one and only, Jim Kerr, our master of ceremonies, who himself is worthy of an award. 

Christian Browne, who is one of the lead attorneys fighting the proposed “Equal Rights Amendment” gave our audience an informative update on what to expect with Prop One this November. Recently, the Appellate Court ruled to reinstate the controversial Prop One initiative to November’s ballot, which reeked of partisanship and was bereft of legal substance. Our Party, and organizations like Protect Kids NY will do everything in our power to fight against this ill-conceived amendment. You can read our press release on the ERA here.

A special thank you to our sponsors, my assistant Eileen, our Director of Operations Andrew, and our newest intern Sean, for putting together a great event as always! To everyone who made this evening memorable, thank you, and congratulations Howard!

Siena Poll

Yesterday, Siena College Research Institute put out a poll that reflects what New Yorkers already know: Governor Kathy Hochul is a failed governor and a change needs to be made at the White House. What’s happening in Albany and Washington is unacceptable.

The Governor’s lowest-ever approval rating (38-49%) should come as no surprise. New Yorkers are exhausted by the cost of living in this state and by progressive policies that have triggered an ongoing crime and migrant crisis. Voters of all parties are coming to realize that the utopian promises of the political left are a cruel ruse, just like they’ve always been. You can read the full press release here.

Travels

On Saturday, we held our State Executive Committee meeting where we recognized four Conservative Party Members for their exceptional efforts in increasing conservative enrollment in their county. In addition, they received our “Torch of Freedom” pin for registering over 50 Conservatives each! Congratulations to Gonzalo Duran (Bronx), Jason Murillo (New York), Dion Powell (Bronx), and Pasquale Lagana (Westchester).

Wednesday evening, I was happy to take the trip to Suffolk County for a fantastic reception. Congratulations to James Kevins for being honored with the Suffolk County Conservative Party’s Lifetime Achievement Award!

Today, I headed back to Long Island for the GOP’s Protect the Vote Tour regarding ballot security. Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Whatley was in attendance explaining their operations and, I have to say, I am pleased with the efforts they have made and continue to make in NYS.