Author: Gerard Kassar

Chairman Kassar’s Weekly Wrap Up 4/18/25

Madame Attorney General, No One Is Above The Law

I have heard Attorney General Letitia James proclaim that ‘no one is above the law” for the past seven years. It has become her very creed and motto – but one she thought never applied to her. (Please see examples in the full wrap up)

Now, we learn that Ms. James may have been cheating on financial and real estate documents for years, calling into question her legitimacy as a New York State resident and her position as New York State Attorney General. It would be tiresome to harp on the hypocrisy involved, so we’ll simply concur with the Attorney General’s earlier statements: No one is above the law. New Yorkers will see Ms. James in court.

  1. February 25, 2022 – Civil Investigation into Donald Trump

“Make no mistake: My office will continue to pursue this case without fear or favor because no one is above the law.”

  1. February 16, 2024 – Civil Fraud Judgment Against Trump

“Because no matter how big, rich, or powerful you think you are, no one is above the law.”

  1. May 30, 2024 – Statement on X (formerly Twitter)

“No one is above the law.”

  1. February 7, 2025 – Lawsuit Against Elon Musk and DOGE

“As the richest man in the world, Elon Musk is not used to being told ‘no,’ but in our country, no one is above the law.”

  1. February 8, 2025 – Victory in DOGE Lawsuit

“I have said it before, and I will say it again: no one is above the law.”

  1. April 7, 2022 – Motion to Hold Trump in Contempt

“We are seeking the court’s immediate intervention because no one is above the law.”

  1. April 8, 2022 – Action Against Cushman & Wakefield

“Cushman — like any other party — cannot defy a lawful subpoena because no one is above the law.”

  1. January 31, 2022 – Trump Investigation

“Despite these threats, we will not stop our investigation or our pursuit of justice because no one is above the law.”

  1. October 2, 2023 – Statement Outside New York Court

“No one is above the law.”

  1. September 21, 2022 – Trump Civil Fraud Lawsuit Announcement

“No one, no one is above the law.”

  1. October 6, 2022 – After Court Orders Trump Deposition

“No one is above the law—not even the former President of the United States.”

  1. April 13, 2021 – NRA Bankruptcy Case

“The NRA cannot escape accountability. No one is above the law.”

  1. March 8, 2023 – Opioid Settlement Press Conference

“We are holding these corporations accountable because no one is above the law.”

  1. January 12, 2023 – Charges Against Celsius CEO

“Crypto entrepreneurs must play by the rules like everyone else. No one is above the law”

  1. July 14, 2020 – NYPD Protest Investigation

“We are launching a full, independent investigation. No one is above the law—not even those in uniform.”

Hochul Marist Poll Results

Governor Kathy Hochul’s approval ratings continue to slip, with a recent Marist poll showing nearly 60% of New Yorkers oppose her seeking re-election in 2026. Only 39% approve of her job performance, and a mere 13% strongly support her. I see these numbers as a reflection of growing dissatisfaction across the state from one-party rule. I was quoted in the South Shore Press stating, “Hochul has consistently bad polling numbers. It can be argued that her bad numbers are locked in – that it’s not going to fluctuate. I think the biggest thing for her is that she continues to have this very, very high number across the board of people saying that she should not seek re-election…This poll indicates that we will have a new governor as long as the opposition party, which I chair one of them, ends up with solid candidates for governor.”

The polling should raise alarm bells for Democrats; showing she has lost significant ground even among their own base, with many questioning her leadership and effectiveness in improving the quality of life in New York. I believe the stage is set for a strong challenge, and I am confident the Conservative Party will endorse the best candidate.

Full article here: South Shore Press

Happy Easter and Chag Pesach Sameach

As we enter this sacred season, I offer my heartfelt wishes for a blessed Good Friday, a joyful Easter, and a meaningful Passover to all who celebrate. These holy days are moments for deep reflection, rooted in the timeless values that have shaped our faith, our families, and the foundation of Western civilization. Easter speaks to the triumph of hope through Christ’s resurrection, while Passover honors God’s deliverance and the enduring call to freedom. This weekend, take the time to step away from the crazy world of politics, and spend as much time as you can with family and friends. You all deserve it.

May this season bring peace and strength to you and your family. God bless you and the United States of America.

YES, MADAME ATTORNEY GENERAL, NO ONE IS ABOVE THE LAW 4/16/25

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Bill O’Reilly, 212-396-9117
Bill@NovemberTeam.com
April 16, 2025

KASSAR: YES, MADAME ATTORNEY GENERAL, NO ONE IS ABOVE THE LAW

“The New York State Conservative Party has heard Attorney General Letitia  James proclaim that ‘no one is above the law” for the past seven years. It has become her very creed and motto – but one she thought never applied to her. (Please see examples below.)

“Now, we learn that Ms. James may have been cheating on financial and real estate documents for years, calling into question her legitimacy as a New York State resident and her position as New York State Attorney General.

“It would be tiresome to harp on the hypocrisy involved, so we’ll simply concur with the Attorney General’s earlier statements: No one is above the law. New Yorkers will see Ms. James in court.”

1. February 25, 2022 – Civil Investigation into Donald Trump

“Make no mistake: My office will continue to pursue this case without fear or favor because no one is above the law.”

2. February 16, 2024 – Civil Fraud Judgment Against Trump

“Because no matter how big, rich, or powerful you think you are, no one is above the law.”

3. May 30, 2024 – Statement on X (formerly Twitter)

“No one is above the law.”

4. February 7, 2025 – Lawsuit Against Elon Musk and DOGE

“As the richest man in the world, Elon Musk is not used to being told ‘no,’ but in our country, no one is above the law.”

5. February 8, 2025 – Victory in DOGE Lawsuit

“I have said it before, and I will say it again: no one is above the law.”

6. April 7, 2022 – Motion to Hold Trump in Contempt

“We are seeking the court’s immediate intervention because no one is above the law.”

7. April 8, 2022 – Action Against Cushman & Wakefield

“Cushman — like any other party — cannot defy a lawful subpoena because no one is above the law.”

8. January 31, 2022 – Trump Investigation

“Despite these threats, we will not stop our investigation or our pursuit of justice because no one is above the law.”

9. October 2, 2023 – Statement Outside New York Court

“No one is above the law.”

10. September 21, 2022 – Trump Civil Fraud Lawsuit Announcement

“No one, no one is above the law.”

11. October 6, 2022 – After Court Orders Trump Deposition

“No one is above the law—not even the former President of the United States.”

12. April 13, 2021 – NRA Bankruptcy Case

“The NRA cannot escape accountability. No one is above the law.”

13. March 8, 2023 – Opioid Settlement Press Conference

“We are holding these corporations accountable because no one is above the law.”

14. January 12, 2023 – Charges Against Celsius CEO

“Crypto entrepreneurs must play by the rules like everyone else. No one is above the

15. July 14, 2020 – NYPD Protest Investigation

“We are launching a full, independent investigation. No one is above the law—not even those in uniform.”

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CONSERVATIVE PARTY ANNOUNCES MAUD MARON ON BALLOT FOR MANHATTAN DISTRICT ATTORNEY 4/15/25

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Bill O’Reilly, 212-396-9117
Bill@NovemberTeam.com
April 15, 2025

NEW YORK STATE CONSERVATIVE PARTY ANNOUNCES MAUD MARON ON BALLOT FOR MANHATTAN DISTRICT ATTORNEY

“Maud Maron is the obvious choice for anyone interested in public safety.”

New York, NY — The New York State Conservative Party is proud to announce that its endorsed candidate for Manhattan District Attorney, Maud Maron, is now officially on the ballot and campaigning tirelessly across the borough to restore law, order, and common sense after four years of criminal justice negligence by failed incumbent D.A. Alvin Bragg. Mr. Bragg has become a national lightning rod for controversial liberal criminal justice policies that led to the ongoing crime wave in New York.

With more than two decades of experience in New York’s criminal justice system, Maron has built a career as a fearless advocate for public safety, equal justice, and educational excellence. From her work training new attorneys at the Legal Aid Society to her teaching role at Cardozo Law School, she has prepared a generation of lawyers to stand up for justice while never losing sight of the victims and communities that deserve protection, the Conservative Party noted.

“Maud Maron is exactly what Manhattan needs right now—smart, tough, and unafraid to speak the truth,” said State Conservative Party Chairman Gerard Kassar. “Ms. Maron spent over 20 years in the trenches of our justice system, training lawyers and fighting for fairness. Maud understands that public safety isn’t a slogan—it’s a necessity. I’m proud to support her. She’s got the backbone and the brains to get this city back on track.”

Maron’s campaign is already gaining traction with voters fed up with the chaos in the subways, the revolving door of justice, and the steady erosion of trust in city leadership, the Conservative Party said. Her message is clear: safety and sanity are non-negotiable.

“Alvin Bragg and his progressive colleagues took a relatively safe city and ran it into the ground with criminal permissiveness,” Chairman Kassar continued. “It is yet another example of American liberalism failing to learn essential lessons time after time after time. Manhattanites of all parties should rejoice at the option they’ll have in November. Maud Maron is the obvious choice for anyone interested in public safety.”

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Chairman Kassar’s Weekly Wrap-Up 4/11/25

NOTEWORTHY

It is our ongoing intent to keep you—our top supporters—informed about local party activities that we believe you will find interesting.

Statewide, the Party nominated over a thousand candidates for a variety of offices with the filing of petitions last week. The State Party alone issued nearly 375 authorizations.

Many noteworthy candidates have emerged as our standard-bearers. As we move forward toward Election Day, I plan to highlight many of them.

Three I wish to bring to your attention this week are:

AARON MARTIN: Our longtime Broome County Chairman, Aaron is the Republican and Conservative Party’s official nominee for Broome County Clerk. You can follow his campaign Facebook page for updates, events, and legislation here. As well as his website here:

MAUD MARON: The Republican and Conservative Party candidate for Manhattan District Attorney running against Alvin Bragg. This well-accomplished nominee is the first candidate to run countywide for the Conservative Party in New York County in over forty years. Her website can be found here.

KRISTINE LYTLE: A registered Conservative and former Deputy Cayuga County Clerk, Kristine is running unopposed in a special election for County Clerk—an election that will flip the position back into the Conservative column. Her campaign page can be found here.

Elise Stefanik Appointment 

Elise Stefanik’s rise to Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership isn’t just a personal milestone, it’s a major win for conservatives in New York and across the country. I’ve known Elise for years. She’s smart, tough, and principled—and she’s never shied away from a fight when it mattered most.

Whether it’s taking on the radical left or standing strong for the America First agenda, Elise has led with courage and conviction. She’s not just another voice in the room, she’s a force who gets things done.

This appointment proves that real leadership, grounded in clear values and hard work, still matters in Washington. Elise earned this role by showing exactly what it means to lead with strength and clarity at a time when our nation needs both.

As a friend and a conservative, I couldn’t be prouder. The Conservative Party is fortunate to have her as an ally, and I look forward to continuing our work together as she helps lead the Republican resurgence rooted in principle, common sense, and resolve. You can read our full press release here:

Handcuffing Law Enforcement

Let me tell you about one of the most reckless bills I’ve seen come out of Albany in a long time. Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal and Assemblywoman Chantel Jackson have introduced legislation—S3662A / A6331—that would ban police from stopping drivers for a long list of basic vehicle and traffic violations. We’re talking about things like broken headlights and taillights, overly tinted windows, expired registrations and inspections, excessive noise, items blocking the windshield, and even failure to signal before turning.

That’s right—under this bill, police would no longer be allowed to pull someone over for these clear safety violations. And it gets worse.

The bill actually says that if police do make a stop for one of these violations and end up discovering illegal guns, drugs, or even a kidnapped person—the evidence could be thrown out in court. It’s outrageous. These aren’t hypothetical concerns. Serious crimes have been solved because of these so-called “minor” traffic stops.

This is a direct attack on law enforcement. It handcuffs the police, strips them of one of the most basic tools they have to keep our communities safe, and sends a loud message to criminals that the rules no longer apply. I was quoted in the South Shore press saying “This is part of the constant effort of the progressive left in the state legislature to make the criminals victims and the actual victims are somehow the ones causing problems.” 

As Chairman of the New York State Conservative Party, I’m calling this bill what it is: garbage. It’s anti-police, anti-safety, and pro-criminal. And we will do everything we can to stop it. You can read the full article and my thoughts here.

CONSERVATIVE PARTY CHAIRMAN PRAISES CONGRESSWOMAN TENNEY FOR HIGH-QUALITY CHARTER SCHOOLS ACT 4/11/25

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Bill O’Reilly, 212-396-9117
Bill@NovemberTeam.com
April 11, 2025

CONSERVATIVE PARTY CHAIRMAN GERARD KASSAR PRAISES CONGRESSWOMAN TENNEY FOR HIGH-QUALITY CHARTER SCHOOLS ACT

“The Conservative Party of New York State congratulates Congresswoman Claudia Tenney on introducing the High-Quality Charter Schools Act. If passed, this visionary legislation would open up game-changing possibilities for millions of parents—not just in New York, but across the country. We also praise Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis for her strong support of the bill in Congress.

“For too long, families—especially those in underserved communities—have been trapped in failing schools with no way out. Congresswoman Tenney’s smart measure opens the door to high-performing charter schools and empowers parents with real choices about their children’s education. Backed by a $5 billion tax credit program, this plan rewards charitable investment in success and innovation—not bureaucratic stagnation.

“Claudia Tenney and Nicole Malliotakis are once again showing what it means to put families first. They understand that zip code should never be destiny, and that every child deserves the chance to attend a school that meets their needs and unlocks their potential.

“School choice isn’t just good policy—it’s a moral imperative. The Conservative Party stands firmly behind this effort and commends our representatives for leading the charge.”

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Statement on the Appointment of Congresswoman Elise Stefanik 4/9/25

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Bill O’Reilly, 212-396-9117
Bill@NovemberTeam.com
April 9, 2025

Statement from New York State Conservative Party Chairman Gerard Kassar on the Appointment of Congresswoman Elise Stefanik

“Elise Stefanik’s rise to Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership is not just a personal achievement—it’s a major win for conservatives across New York and the nation. Elise is tough, she’s smart, and she’s never backed down from a fight. Whether it’s standing up to the radical left or championing the America First agenda, Elise has led from the front with backbone and results.

“This appointment is proof that hard work, clear convictions, and real leadership still matter in Washington. Elise didn’t just earn this role—she redefined what it means to lead with courage and clarity in a time when our country needs both.

“The Conservative Party is proud to call her an ally, and we look forward to continuing to work with Chairwoman Stefanik as she helps drive a Republican resurgence rooted in principle, strength, and common sense.”

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Chairman Kassar’s Weekly Wrap Up 4/5/25

NOT AN APRIL FOOL’S JOKE

Governor Hochul’s decision to release prisoners early because of State incompetence is not an April Fool’s Joke.

Hochul, who created a hostile environment for prison staff resulting in a multi week walkout, has fired 2,000 staff members who would not agree to return resulting in the need to shorten the in-prison sentences of tens of thousands of offenders by seven months.  This has all come about at a time when millions in taxpayer dollars are being expended on keeping a large National Guard presence in the prisons.

In New York State the bottom line is that many prison terms for serious crimes are already shorter than they should be.  Few believe that any corrections take place.  Most New Yorkers feel safest when criminals remain behind bars for their full sentence.

The parole board and probation are constantly disappointing.

It’s hard to overstate how badly Governor Hochul and her progressive colleagues in Albany have screwed up New York’s criminal justice system. They turned the greatest crime-fighting state in America into a national laughing stock in a single generation.  Progressivism at its finest. View our full press release here.

                                                            IT’S AUTHROIZATION TIME

The State Executive Committee of the New York State Conservative Party met on Thursday, April 3rd to give permission for candidates not enrolled in the Conservative Party to run for local office in counties that do not have formal county committees and in a few races that cross county lines in New York City.

These are the called Wilson-Pakula’s (named after Senator Wilson and Assemblyman Pakula).  The State party issued over 375 for offices ranging from County Supervisors to Town Councilmembers.

Of course, all of these candidates needed to file petitions.  The Regional Vice Chairmen and locally active party members coordinate with the state party concerning their qualifications.

I want to thank Party Director of Operations, Andrew Davis, for putting in the many hours to bring this all together.

GOOD NEWS FROM FLORIDA

The two Congressional wins in Florida earlier this week guarantee that our NYS seven-member Conservative/GOP delegation will remain in the majority. This is key for America to move forward with the Trump tax cutting agenda as well moving some of his executive orders into statute.

In Wisconsin the loss of the Supreme Court position to a progressive in a non-partisan election was tempered by the voters overwhelmingly passing a change allowing for the use of voter IDs.

Voter Identification requirements were a major part of the President’s Election Integrity Executive Order as well as prohibiting non-citizens from voting and establishing a national data base to be shared with all states reducing the likelihood of fraud.

Statement on Female Fencer Disqualified for Standing Up for Her Rights 4/4/25

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Bill O’Reilly, 212-396-9117
bill@novemberteam.com
April 4, 2025

Statement on Female Fencer Disqualified for Standing Up for Her Rights from New York State Conservative Party Chairman Gerard Kassar

“American progressives continue to fence with reality by insisting that biological males should be able compete in female sports. In the latest outrage, female fencer Stephanie Turner respectfully took a knee rather than square off against a biological male, and she was disqualified from her tournament as a result.

“It is so patently obvious that biological males have physical advantages over women, on average, just as it’s so patently stupid to ignore that reality. Will progressives ever return to reality on gender? Will USA Fencing ever recover from this embarrassment.”

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Gov. Hochul’s Decision to Release Prisoners Early Because of State Incompetence is Not an April Fool’s Joke: (4/1/25)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Bill O’Reilly, 212-396-9117
bill@novemberteam.com
April 1, 2025

Gov. Hochul’s Decision to Release Prisoners Early Because of State Incompetence is Not an April Fool’s Joke: New York State Conservative Party Chairman Gerard Kassar

“New Yorkers who thought Governor Kathy Hochul was kidding about releasing convicted prisoners early because of staff shortages — or because it’s April Fool’s Day — will be shocked to learn that it’s true after all. The Governor is actually planning to release convicted felons back into our communities because there aren’t enough officers to guard them.

“It’s hard to overstate how badly Governor Hochul and her progressive colleagues in Albany have screwed up New York’s criminal justice system. They turned the greatest crime-fighting state in America into a national laughing-stock in a single generation. Progressivism at its finest.”

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Chairman Kassar’s Weekly Wrap Up 3/28/25

Marc Molinaro’s Confirmation Hearing

My friend and a tremendous ally to the Conservative Party, Marc Molinaro, had an outstanding Senate hearing for his nomination as the next Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Administrator. When Marc is confirmed, I have no doubt he will hit the ground running on day one. He will work closely with Secretary Duffy to address the corruption and waste within the MTA—something that has long plagued New Yorkers. This past February at CPPAC, we heard first hand from Marc; he is bright and full of ideas. Marc truly understands the transportation challenges our state faces, and he will be an invaluable partner in bringing much-needed reform.

Rochester Police Memo

Rochester has been on the decline for years, and residents are fed up. Democrat policies have destroyed a once great city, and politicians won’t undo their wrongs. From bail reform, discovery law changes, the defund the police movement, not cooperating with ICE, etc. The latest story, which you can find here, has to do with the Mayor of Rochester condemning police officers for simply answering the call of duty to help a Homeland Security Investigation. Yet, Mayor Evans has the nerve to put out a public statement condemning these brave officers who are just doing their jobs. He claims this is against “city policy.” Someone should remind him who occupies the White House.

Mayor Malik Evans is more interested in appeasing political activists than supporting law enforcement. His decision to investigate officers for simply responding to a Homeland Security call for backup is an outrageous attempt to intimidate RPD. Our officers put their lives on the line daily, and they deserve our respect—not politically motivated investigations. We stand with law enforcement and against weak leadership that prioritizes political points over public safety.

Congresswoman Elise Stefanik’s Decision to Remain in Congress

Congresswoman Elise Stefanik was recently nominated to serve as the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. However, given the slim Republican House majority, she and the president have determined that it is in the best interest of the country for her to remain in Congress. While I would have been proud to see her represent our nation on the world stage, I fully support her decision to continue leading in the House. Elise is a proven fighter, and the Conservative Party looks forward to continuing our work with her on key issues. You can view our full press release here:

Activist Judges Undermining the Will of the People

Time and time again, rogue activist judges have sought to obstruct President Trump’s America First agenda—an agenda that reflects the will of the American people. Whether it’s blocking the deportation of violent Venezuelan gang members or halting Trump’s funding freeze for bureaucratic waste, these judges are overstepping their role. The courts should not be used as a tool for partisan interference. The people elected President Trump to enact real change, and he has a clear mandate to secure our borders, enforce the law, and cut government waste. The Conservative Party stands firmly against judicial activism and in support of a government that works for the people—not against them.

Statement on Congresswoman Elise Stefanik Remaining in the House of Representatives 3/27/25

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Bill O’Reilly, 212-396-9117
bill@novemberteam.com
March 27, 2025

Statement on Congresswoman Elise Stefanik Remaining in the House of Representatives by State Conservative Party Chairman Gerard Kassar

“Congresswoman Elise Stefanik has proven herself to be a true leader in the Republican Party, putting the Trump presidency and her country above personal ambition. Her brilliance, loyalty, and talent set her apart as one of the most influential voices in American politics today. The future is incredibly bright for her—she can achieve anything she sets her mind to in the years ahead.”

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Chairman Kassar’s Weekly Wrap Up 3/21/25

Appeals Court Victory

Yesterday, Conservatives and Republicans in New York State secured a major common-sense victory in the Court of Appeals, striking down the right of non-citizens to vote. The overwhelming 6-1 ruling—delivered by a liberal-leaning court—underscores just how right we were. The Conservative Party, GOP, State Legislators, and our Congressional delegation have been fighting this injustice since 2021. In fact, I was a named plaintiff in my capacity as Chairman of the New York State Conservative Party. This victory is the result of years of hard work and financial commitment, and we are proud to see our efforts pay off.

For decades, the radical left has sought to erase the distinction between citizens and non-citizens in this country. Their latest attempt—to register 800,000 non-citizens to vote in New York City—would have set a dangerous national precedent. Fortunately, this ruling sends a clear, nationwide message: illegal immigrants do not have the right to vote in our elections.

This decision made national headlines immediately, highlighting the growing momentum for election integrity. With President Trump and Congress prepared to pass voter ID laws, we are one step closer to ensuring the safest and most secure elections possible. Read our full press release here:

Successful Reception

This past Wednesday, the Conservative Party held its 2025 Legislative Reception at the prestigious Fort Orange Club in Albany, and it was a tremendous success. Party leaders, committeemen, activists, and legislators gathered for an evening of recognition and camaraderie.

A key highlight of the night was the presentation of the J. Daniel Mahoney Award to Brett Robinson (Suffolk County Executive Committee Member) and Jim Barrett, Jr. (Schenectady County Chairman). This award honors individuals who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to advancing conservative values in our state. The inscription reads:

“In grateful appreciation for your many years of untiring dedication to the Conservative Party and its philosophy.”

Having personally known J. Daniel Mahoney, I can say with certainty that he would have been proud to see Brett and Jim carry this honor. Congratulations to both! A special thank you to Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt and Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay for delivering remarks and presenting official proclamations to our award recipients. View photos from the event here:

Petitioning – Final Stretch!

We are in the home stretch of petitioning! A huge thank you to our Chairmen, volunteers, and committeepersons who have worked tirelessly throughout this process. Every year, we say, “This is getting harder and harder”—and yet, year after year, we rise to the challenge, setting aside personal time to get the job done.

Petitioning is a demanding process, but it is absolutely essential to getting our conservative candidates on the ballot. Here are the key dates to remember:

  • March 31 – First day to file designating petitions
  • April 3 – Last day to file (you can collect signatures until this date if needed!)

If you have any questions, contact our Director of Operations, Andrew Davis, at (845) 522-1915. I have also included a petitioning tip sheet below to assist in these final days.

On behalf of myself, the Conservative Party, and our candidates, thank you for your dedication and hard work!