Universal health care was a central theme in Assemblywoman Barbara Lifton's endorsement. As she pointed out, "The Assembly passed a Universal Health Care bill years ago which would provide accessible, affordable health care to all New Yorkers. But it has never had a Republican sponsor in the Senate, and so never seen the light of day in that house. We've passed legislation eight times now that requires the Insurance Department to hold public hearings and review any request from an insurance company or an HMO for a premium rate increase of over 5%. That bill has languished in the Senate Insurance Committee for many years."
She went on to single out the incumbent's role in rising HMO costs. "Jim Seward has been the chair of that committee since 2000. During all that time, we know that health insurance premiums soared, along with industry profits, and tens of thousands of New Yorkers lost private health care insurance. All while Jim Seward has chaired the committee that could take action. We need Don Barber to replace Jim Seward in the State Senate."
Sen. Aubertine, whose recent win in his rural upstate district brought Democrats within two seats of a State Senate majority, highlighted Barber's focus on families struggling to makes ends meet. "Don Barber has what it takes to make a great representative for the 51st State Senate district. As a farmer, he understands the value of hard work, and exactly what farmers need to make a good living. He knows what it means to build a successful business, too. He has innovative ideas about building a sustainable local economy. Most all, he understands the economic struggles of upstate families because he's lived through those same struggles every day. Don Barber is one of us. I'm proud to endorse his candidacy."
Sen. Valesky, who was voted "Freshman of the Year" by the New York State Senate, applauded Barber's plans to build a new, alternative energy-driven economy. "Don Barber has a unique blend of talents. He's a farmer, an engineer and a successful businessman. He has fresh ideas about building a sustainable local economy and supporting small business. Our rural areas have weathered years of economic decline, but Barber has a plan to spur the new alternative energy-based economy in our region. I would be proud to serve with him in the New York State Senate."
Barber is a top contender and he just received three big endorsements. Like Aubertine in the 48th, Barber fits the mold of what the 51st is all about.
