https://www.timesunion.com/news/article/Race-to-replace-Marchione-taking-shape-12944666.php
Race to replace Marchione taking shape
Democratic candidate emerges
Published 4:17 pm, Friday, May 25, 2018
Democrat Aaron Gladd is a candidate for the 43rd Senate District (Campaign)
Democrat Aaron Gladd is a candidate for the 43rd Senate District (Campaign)
Halfmoon Town Board member Daphne Jordan (Provided)
Halfmoon Town Board member Daphne Jordan (Provided)
ALBANY - Democrats have found their candidate to replace state Sen. Kathy Marchione, as Republicans continue to narrow their field of contenders.
Aaron Gladd, of Brunswick, has emerged as the Democratic candidate for the 43rd Senate District, which includes Columbia County and parts of Rensselaer, Washington and Saratoga counties. The Senate seat became available after Marchione announced last month that she will retire after her term ends this year.
He grew up in Saranac Lake and eventually obtained a Masters of Public Administration from the Nelson Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Policy. In 2011, Gladd enlisted in the U.S. Army and went on to reach the rank of first lieutenant. During his four years in the military he served as a ground-combat platoon leader, including during a combat tour in Afghanistan, according to a press release.
"New Yorkers need a fighter who has the passion to serve and the character to get it done," Gladd said in a statement. "I was proud to serve my country in Afghanistan, and as state senator I will serve my community and fight to restore hope, compassion and opportunity to upstate New York."
He is the deputy director of policy for Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo's administration and worked on expanding broadband access, implementing paid family leave and the opioid epidemic, according to a release.
Columbia County Democrat Koethi Zan, who was previously considering a run for the seat, is also supporting Gladd.
Republican Field
Republicans are looking to make their selection in advance of the petitioning process, which begins on June 5, and the county committees have endorsement meetings this week.
"We'll get behind that one individual who is selected by the four committees," Saratoga County Republican Committee Chairman Carl P. Zeilman predicted.
Saratoga County Clerk Craig Hayner and Rensselaer County Clerk Frank Merola opted not to pursue the senate seat, but at least six candidates are vying for the party's nomination.
Halfmoon town Councilwoman Daphne Jordan, who is the legislative director for Marchione, got into the race last week and has the support of her town's Republican committee. She was also endorsed by Stillwater Republican Lisa Bruno, who was initially pursuing the seat.
"I will carry forward Sen. Marchione's proud tradition of serving and helping others, standing strong for what is right, and working for an agenda based on affordability, opportunity and security so all New Yorkers can succeed and realize their dreams," Jordan said in a statement.
Republicans Gerard Zabala of Wilton, Chris Boyark of Mechanicville, Eric Wohlleber of Poestenkill, Frank McClement of Waterford, Marlene Tuczinski of Columbia County, and Jordan are scheduled to meet with the Saratoga County Republican Committee tonight.
Zeilman said he isn't concerned about the selection process dragging on and said they are doing the proper vetting to find the best candidate. "There's no rush to just throw somebody into that position," he said. "We're right on schedule with the petition time."
The district leans conservative and there are about 6,000 more active Republicans than Democrats.
David.Lombardo@timesunion.com - 518.454.5427 - @Poozer87
