Erie County: "Career Politician" Talking Point A Twisted One

by: robert.harding

Sat Oct 17, 2009 at 12:02:12 PM EDT

Erie County Comptroller Mark Poloncarz, who has butted heads with Erie County Executive Chris Collins - the man helping push this notion of "career politicians" by putting forth his own slate of candidates - is one target of such labeling. Collins was asked who he thought was a "career politician" in his mind. One of the names? Mark Poloncarz.

Here's the Collins definition of career politician: "It starts with somebody who sees politics as a career path. It is someone who caters to the special interests in order to advance or preserve their career.

"It is somebody who makes decisions based on the political ramifications, not based on what's in the best interest of taxpayers. It is typically someone who does not have a lot of history of other experiences, meaning private-sector experiences."

He agreed that career politicians nest on both sides of the aisle.

Collins, a Republican, easily rattled off a few Democrats in county government he thinks qualify: Reynolds. Legislature Chairwoman Lynn M. Marinelli. County Comptroller Mark C. Poloncarz, who is completing his first term and made his living as a lawyer before seeking office in 2005.

The one item in the piece that sticks out is when Collins was asked about what Republicans are career politicians. When asked about Senator Dale Volker, who has been in office for over three decades, Collins gave this response:

"I don't want to get into name-calling necessarily."

So if he has to name Democrats who are career politicians, he is willing to do so to fit his political agenda. But once he has to name Republicans, he refers to it as "name calling" and dodges the question. Convenient dodging by a man who wants to run for governor next year. Talk about career politicians.

In Erie County, the problem with the "career politician" label is that it is being thrown around by, well, those who themselves could be affixed with the "career politician" label. Collins, for example, has served as county executive since 2008 and is already talking about seeking higher office. His name has been mentioned as a possible GOP gubernatorial candidate in 2010 if Rudy Giuliani doesn't run, which is a possibility.

But from there, it only gets worse for Erie County Republicans.

Kevin Hardwick, the Republican challenger to Michele Iannello in the 10th Legislative District, has labeled his opponent a "career politician." Yet, a look at Hardwick's record shows who the real career politician is.

That isn't the only instance where the Republican accusing the Democrat of being a career politician is actually a career politician (or more of one) than his or her opponent. Republican Shelly Schratz is calling her opponent a "career politician" even though she has more years of experience as an elected official and also has sought other offices unsuccessfully.

It is an interesting strategy for the Collins Republicans. They are calling their Democratic foes "career politicians" in an attempt to make them seem like they are old, stale and just warm bodies in chairs at the Legislature Chamber. But these are candidates who have served many years in office. They have also ran for other offices unsuccessfully (Hardwick ran twice for Legislature and lost in the early 2000s).

But the troubling part, from Collins, is that he couldn't name a single Republican. Even though he said that there was career politicians on both sides, he wasn't willing to throw a member of his party under the bus. That tells you what kind of guy Collins is. It's no secret he wants to run for governor. It's no secret these candidates running against incumbent legislators and Poloncarz are his candidates. His hunger for power is so massive I can hear is stomach growling from here in Orleans County.

You can't think of a single Republican? And when Dale Volker, a man who has served 36 years as a New York state senator, is put in front of your face you say you don't want to engage in "name-calling"?

Name-calling isn't okay when it's someone of your own party AND someone who, as a senior Albany Republican, surely would help to have on your side should you run for governor in 2010. But name-calling is acceptable if you're trying to take down the Democrats.

EC-10: Who Is The Real Career Politician?

by: robert.harding

Sat Oct 17, 2009 at 11:22:51 AM EDT

Republican candidate Kevin Hardwick gave his own definition of "career politician" while also targeting his opponent, Democratic incumbent Michele Iannello.

"Career politician Michele Iannello engaged in gutter politics," Kevin R. Hardwick, of the City of Tonawanda, said after Iannello tried to label him a career politician.

...

"When we talk about career politicians, we talk about people who have no other career, who have no other life outside of politics," said Hardwick, a political science professor at Canisius College. "As a result, we have people who sell their souls to the special interests because they have nothing else to fall back on."

In an interview with Iannello, she told me she was first elected to public office in 2003, when she was elected to serve the people of Kenmore on the Village Board. In 2005, she was elected to the Erie County Legislature, took her oath of office in 2006 and is now seeking her third term in office.

To recap, here is Iannello's political career:

- 2003: Elected to serve on Kenmore Village Board.

- 2005: Elected to Erie County Legislature, serving the 10th Legislative District

Now, here is Hardwick's political career taken right from his campaign website bio:

- Served a three-year term on the Susquehanna Valley Board of Education (was first elected as a senior in high school)

- Was elected to three terms as a Town of Binghamton councilman

- From 1986 to 1988, was administrative assistant to Senator Walter Anderson, the majority leader of the New York State Senate

- Received his Ph.D in Political Science from SUNY Binghamton and moved to Tonawanda in 1989

- Former member of the City of Tonawanda Charter Review Commission

- In 1995, was elected to serve as the First Ward Councilmember in the City of Tonawanda. He was re-elected twice to serve the First Ward

- Two unsuccessful campaigns for Erie County Legislature in 2001 and 2003

- Hosted "Hardline with Hardwick" on WBEN 930 AM

- Presently seeking to serve as an Erie County legislator representing the 10th Legislative District

Remember, this is what Hardwick said about career politicians:

"When we talk about career politicians, we talk about people who have no other career, who have no other life outside of politics," said Hardwick, a political science professor at Canisius College. "As a result, we have people who sell their souls to the special interests because they have nothing else to fall back on."

You might say Hardwick has made a career out of politics. If he's not running for office, he's teaching politics.

Michele Iannello was a paralegal before deciding to serve the people of Erie County full-time. She has been a small business owner and has been involved in many local community groups. Her record is not one of a career politician, but of someone who is dedicated to their community.

Hardwick's record is all politics, all the time. He has campaigned for a number of offices. He has served on city boards, school boards and town boards. He ran previously for Erie County Legislature and lost.

And he is calling Michele Iannello the career politician?

Talk about the pot calling the kettle black.  

EC-Leg: Collins Recruits WGRZ's Lynne Dixon To Run Against Reynolds

by: robert.harding

Thu May 21, 2009 at 07:19:51 AM EDT

WBEN radio host and Canisius College professor Kevin Hardwick announced on Sunday that he would be running against Erie County Legislator Michele Iannello and now another local media personality will resign from her post and run for Erie County Legislature on the Republican line.

Lynne Dixon, who resigned from Buffalo's NBC affiliate WGRZ Channel 2, will run against Legislator Bob Reynolds, who represents the 12th Legislative District.

Here is more on the story from The Buffalo News:

Dixon, 43, is a registered member of the Independence Party, which is expected to give her a strong claim on that nomination. The sources say she also has submitted a letter to Conservative leaders declaring her intention to run. They have scheduled her for an interview on Tuesday.

The Channel 2 reporter marks the second, high-profile media figure selected by Republicans in recent days to run for the County Legislature. Kevin R. Hardwick, a Canisius College political science professor who hosted the "Hardline with Hardwick" government and politics show on WBEN Radio, said over the weekend he will challenge Legislator Michele M. Iannello, D-Kenmore.

When Collins started out, he was targeting three incumbents. Two of those incumbents were Iannello and Reynolds, both of whom he claimed are "obstructionists." The third target is Erie County Comptroller Mark Poloncarz, who will be a much more difficult candidate to find an opponent for. It is a countywide race and Poloncarz will be a very tough candidate to run against.

It is interesting that Collins has turned to the local media for his talent pool. Hardwick wasn't a huge shocker, given his past in politics and clearly the desire was there to get involved again. But getting Dixon to run is something that is a bit of a risk. She was referred to in the News piece as a "high-profile" pick, but it's hard to tell just how high her profile is. It would be another story if she was an anchor. They tend to be more recognized. But she was a reporter and got minimal face time.

Collins is trying to flex some political muscle here. In November, the test will take place to see if he has any political muscle. Hardwick will be a tough challenger, but Iannello is very popular in her district. Dixon might be a "high-profile" figure, but I don't see her beating Reynolds. And Collins will need to find someone with real credentials to run against Poloncarz, who is a very tough opponent and is already being considered a challenger for county executive in 2011.  

EC-Leg: Hardwick To Halt Show, Run Against Iannello For County Legislature

by: robert.harding

Mon May 18, 2009 at 08:21:24 AM EDT

For the past four years Dr. Kevin Hardwick has hosted "Hardline" on WBEN, examining the political issues on a local, state and national level. Today he stepped away from the microphone in order to enter the race for the 10th District of the Erie County Legislature. Hardwick says that he is doing so after County Executive, Chris Collins pleaded with him to do so and that Collins has "...certainly indicated that he will help me politically, financially. To what extent, we'll find out over the course of the next few months."

Hardwick's opponent in the race is Michele Ianello who has won re-election and thinks that Hardwick's candidacy is simply a move by Collins to get her out of office, "The county executive believes he can just have me fired...I have provided oversight of county finances and I represented the people of the tenth district in the way that they want to be represented." Ianello also labels Hardwick as a "rubber stamp" for Collins agenda.

Hardwick counters by noting his opposition to the Republican party in his previous runs for the same seat (2001 and 2003), "...any attempt to paint me as this puppet of the county executive, I think we can look at my history and know that I had no problem standing up to powerful people before and if the county executive crosses a line, certainly I'll be there to try and stop him."

It is rather difficult for Hardwick to make such an argument - that he isn't a puppet of Republican County Executive Chris Collins - when Collins has made it known that he wishes to target three individuals in county government. That list, which also includes County Comptroller Mark Poloncarz, has Iannello's name on it.

If Collins makes it possible for Hardwick to win, I can't imagine Hardwick fighting back too much. He might pick his battles to make it seem like he's a John McCain-type, but since Collins will make an investment in him "politically and financially," I can't see Hardwick questioning too much, if anything, that Collins will do should Hardwick be elected.

New York State Senate Notable Races: 9/1/08

by: robert.harding

Mon Sep 01, 2008 at 10:13:01 AM EDT

SD-25 - Primary between Connor and Squadron: The winner of the general will be a Democrat. The question is which one? Will it be the veteran Connor? Or will it be the challenger Squadron, who is mounting a very serious challenge to Connor's incumbent.

SD-61 - Three way Democratic primary: This is another important primary because this seat could turn blue in November. Ratzenhofer is a Republican in a slightly Republican district, but this is not a safe seat for the GOP. A Democrat can win this seat. Now we just need to settle a three-way Democratic contest before moving forward.

2008 NEW YORK STATE SENATE RACES AT A GLANCE
Red = Republican Blue = Democrat
DISTRICT		INCUMBENT		CHALLENGER		RACE RANKING
SD-3		Sen. Caesar Trunzo		Brian Foley		Leans Democratic
SD-6		Sen. Kemp Hannon		Kristen McElroy		Safe Republican
SD-7		Sen. Craig Johnson		Barbara Donno		Safe Democratic
SD-11		Sen. Frank Padavan		Jim Gennaro		Leans Republican
SD-15		Sen. Serphin Maltese		Joseph Addabbo		Leans Democratic
SD-25*		Sen. Martin Connor		Daniel Squadron		Safe Democratic
SD-43**		OPEN SEAT		Roy McDonald, Brian Premo, Mike Russo		Leans Republican
SD-48		Sen. Darrel Aubertine		David Renzi		Safe Democratic
SD-51		Sen. James Seward		Don Barber		Leans Republican
SD-53		Sen. George Winner		John Tonello		Safe Republican
SD-54		Sen. Michael Nozzolio		Paloma Capanna		Leans Republican
SD-55		Sen. Jim Alesi		David Nachbar		Toss Up
SD-56		Sen. Joe Robach		Rick Dollinger		Leans Democratic
SD-61***		OPEN SEAT		Mike Ratzenhofer, Michele Iannello, Joe Mesi, Dan Ward		Toss Up
* - Democratic Primary ** - Democratic Primary between Premo and Russo *** - Three-way Democratic Primary
REPUBLICAN PICK-UPS: Zero    DEMOCRATIC PICK-UPS: Three (SD-3, SD-15 and SD-56)

SD-61: In Three Way Race, Who Should A Progressive Vote For?

by: robert.harding

Thu Aug 28, 2008 at 16:57:47 PM EDT

When progressive Democrats go to vote in the district (and there are plenty of progressives in SD-61) they will have their hands full. I will say this: Dan Ward is the least progressive among the three. Dan is a great Democrat and his least progressive "status" doesn't take away from the service he has given to Amherst. But Ward is admittedly a conservative Democrat who is pro-gun, pro-life and against marriage equality. He also is a fiscal conservative. Ward is a great asset locally in Amherst and again, he's a great Democrat. But if a progressive asks themselves who they should vote for, Dan Ward isn't it.

That leaves Iannello and Mesi. I have problems with who Mesi affiliated himself with politically (i.e. Steve Pigeon) but with all that on the table, I like Mesi. Taking all the background information and putting it off to the side, Mesi is someone who cares. He wants to be a leader. He wants to see better times for this district and Western New York. He wants to see better out of the New York State Senate.

I do have one problem with Mesi though: His consistency. I have a hard time trying to piece together why Mesi would receive the backing from the Working Families Party and then be endorsed by the local Conservative Party. In listening to other Democrats and hearing from other Democrats in this district, it has been said that Mesi tends to "preach to the choir" that he is speaking to. That worries me, especially when it comes time to stand up to the Republicans. When it's time for Democrats to stand up, we don't need Joe Mesi to sit down.

It is also interesting to note that Mesi has been inconsistent on marriage equality. When I interviewed Mesi in mid-April, he told me that he supports a "strong civil union." Recently though while debating Iannello and Ward, Mesi said, "I don't see myself not being supportive of equal rights." When asked if he would vote for a bill supporting gay marriage, Mesi called it a "fairness" issue and again referred to it as an equal rights issue before adding, simply, "yes." That is the most glaring example of Mesi's inconsistency.

That leads me to Iannello. I have my disagreements on more than a few issues with Iannello. But she is the most progressive candidate in this race. She has presented and will continue to present new ideas every day on her "40 Ideas In 40 Days" blog featured on the front page of her website. Again, I don't agree with all of the ideas presented. But Iannello has proven herself as a progressive when it comes to the issues impacting the state and her desire to change how the game is played in Albany.

If I was a progressive in this race, I would be backing Iannello. She has what it takes to be a progressive state senator. I do think though she is trailing behind Mesi in the race. It will be close, but it will be tough for Iannello to overcome the strong name recognition Mesi has.  

SD-61: Citizen Action Asking Dennis Ward To Step Aside For "More Objective Person"

by: robert.harding

Wed Aug 27, 2008 at 15:00:57 PM EDT

Dear Mr. Ward:

On behalf of advocates for good government practices and campaign reform, we are writing to express our concerns about the integrity of the upcoming primary election in the 61st Senate District on September 9th.   It is your office's mission to provide complete oversight and ensure fairness, and we are concerned that your ability to oversee a fair election has been compromised.  We understand you are in difficult position, no matter how fair your intentions may be.

There have been recent news reports indicating a greater level of interest by your office in this particular election in contrast to other elections.  We are also very concerned about recent public disclosures of financial contributions in the order of $8,000.00 that you have made to your wife's campaign.  

Transparency is the hallmark of the elections commission, and we ask you to hold yourself to the same high standard that you normally display.

We are also requesting assurance that you will be delegating your oversight responsibilities for this particular race to a more objective person.

Sincerely,

Ellen Kennedy

President of Citizen Action of New York

Jim Anderson

Chair of the Western New York Regional Board of Citizen Action of New York

Iannello's 11 day pre-primary filing shows that Dennis Ward has loaned Iannello's campaign $8,000 which could provide for a perceived conflict of interest. And as the saying goes, sometimes the perception of a conflict of interest is worse than an actual conflict of interest.

I believe Dennis Ward's intentions are in the right place. However, as Erie County BOE commissioner, he should delegate responsibilities for this race to ensure that the process is a fair one. No one is accusing Dennis Ward of anything, but Citizen Action calling for a more objective process is arguably the right thing to do here.

This is a complicated primary. It's not too often you see a brother-in-law and sister-in-law running against each other. You're not going to see too many of these races. That said, it would be best for everyone involved if Dennis Ward stepped aside this time.  

SD-61: Mesi, A Political Novice, Taking On Two Experienced Politicians

by: robert.harding

Mon Aug 25, 2008 at 12:10:06 PM EDT

That can be a good thing in politics. However, if there is a criticism of Mesi it is that he is not very savvy when it comes to the issues. When he debated his two other primary opponents on "Hardline with Hardwick" yesterday (a local political radio show in Buffalo), some of Mesi's answers to questions were shaky. Ward, who is a long-time elected official and has run for a number of different offices in Erie County, was a force. He handled the debate with ease while Iannello started off a little nervous but ended up finishing very strong.

The Buffalo News discusses Mesi and a comparison to his opponents in an article today about the race:

Suddenly, the "Baby" is gone from his name and his new opponents are a veteran Town Council member in Amherst and a former Kenmore village trustee turned county legislator.

Four years after that fateful night in Vegas, Mesi's eyes are on a new title - New York State senator. But there are people in his way and they have the one skill he lacks - experience in politics.

"Don King versus Sheldon Silver," Mesi said of the boxing promoter and Assembly speaker. "I've never been persuaded by money or personality. And that's the way it's going to be in Albany."

...

Of the three Democrats running, Mesi is the one with the name and fame. But will his popularity as a sports figure translate into votes?

"What's that old [Walter] Mondale quip, 'Where's the beef?' " asked Daniel J. Ward, the Amherst council member running against Mesi.

To hear Ward talk, Mesi's run for the Senate is equivalent to a young, inexperienced boxer seeking an immediate shot at the heavyweight title.

The image of Mesi as an unqualified but polished former athlete turned politician is one that both Ward and fellow candidate Michele Iannello have helped foster.

Iannello, a county legislator, contrasts her background as a small-business owner and paralegal with Mesi's career as a nationally ranked boxer.

"My common-sense life experience is what I offer the voters," she said. "I've been a single mom. I've been a small-business owner. And I've worked multiple jobs to put food on the table."

This race is a tough one. Mesi has people backing him who aren't well liked in Erie County Democratic circles. Yet Mesi is someone I find to be a strong leader, someone who wants to work for the "average Joe" (no pun intended) and someone who will go to Albany and be a fighter (again, no pun intended). I'm not a huge fan of who Mesi has aligned himself with. But I also know how sincere Mesi is about this opportunity to lead and how much passion he is pouring into this.

I met Ward for the first time when the news broke of Eliot Spitzer's involvement with a prostitute. Actually, we were just leaving the restaurant where I sat down with him for an interview when the news broke on the television in the restaurant. Ward is very smart. He is by far the most experienced candidate in this race. He is well educated (a lawyer by trade) and he has represented the people of Amherst for several years now as town supervisor and as a town board member.

Iannello doesn't bring that same career politician feel. She will remind you of her history right off the get-go. She was a single mother at one time and also a small business owner. Then she went for paralegal training and also served in the Village of Kenmore as a village trustee before becoming an Erie County legislator. While she's not a career politician, she is far from inexperienced. On her website, Iannello has been posting a "40 Ideas In 40 Days" ongoing blog which presents an idea of Iannello's every day lead up to Primary Day. It is a smart idea, gives voters an idea of where she stands and what ideas she will push forth and it gives people a chance to reach out to her for feedback.

This is a primary to watch. And I know I will be watching on Sept. 9.  

SD-61: Iannello Files Complaint Against Mesi Regarding Ties To Responsible New York

by: robert.harding

Wed Aug 06, 2008 at 15:05:49 PM EDT

According to a press release sent out by Iannello's campaign, papers have been filed with the New York State Board of Elections, New York State Attorney General's office and the Albany County District Attorney's office.

Iannello laid out the extensive connections and coordination between Mesi and Responsible New York, focused mainly around Steve Pigeon.

Pigeon, who has been a major advisor to Mesi since his campaign began earlier this year and has been authorized to sign checks for the committee, is now the co-chair of Responsible New York. Responsible New York has indicated that it intends to spend up to $1 million dollars on Mesi's behalf. New York State Election Law prohibits the coordination by candidates and independent committees if they intend to spend more than the contribution limits. In the State Senate primary the contribution limit is $6,000.

"I'm not a lawyer, but the law is clear - you can't spend more than the $6,000 on behalf of a candidate if you are coordinating with them - period. It is clear that there has been extensive coordination between Mr. Mesi and a committee that wants to spend $1 million on his behalf," stated Iannello.

Iannello also called on Mesi to answer questions about his association with this group.

"Mr. Mesi needs to look the voters in the eye and tell them whether or not he is going to allow the law to be broken to help him try to win the election. We can't afford any more politics as usual in Albany. Politicians hiding behind "lawyer-speak" to try and justify shady actions is exactly what the voters are sick of," continued Iannello."

Iannello provided supporting documentation which shows the connection between Mesi and Pigeon. According to the committee designation form submitted to the state Board of Elections, "Friends of Mesi" authorized two people (other than the treasurer) to sign checks. One of those people is Steve Pigeon.

Here is a flow chart showing this relationship:

Iannello and her campaign have made a compelling (and strong) case against this. The evidence looks damning. Let's wait and see if this is investigated or not.

SD-61: Iannello Introduces 40 Ideas In 40 Days Blog

by: robert.harding

Fri Aug 01, 2008 at 10:58:31 AM EDT

I started this blog as an outlet to talk about real ideas to make Western New York and all of New York State a better place. I've been so busy out campaigning door to door I haven't had as much time to embrace critical new mediums like the internet and blogging as I had hoped too.

Just like most other people, I can get frustrated with the coverage of politics by traditional media, there is too much focus on fundraising and polls, who's ahead, who's behind. My goal with this blog is to bring my idea driven agenda directly to the voters.

In the first couple of days Iannello has discussed a number of different issues. Yesterday, she made an interesting proposal for a blog post: "Turn off the computers." That didn't mean turn them off all day long. Based on her experiences as an Erie County legislator, Iannello learned that computers throughout Erie County's government buildings are left on after an employee's shift ends and are left on over the weekend. A recent policy was instituted - with Iannello's pressing - to mandate that employees shut off their computers over the weekend. Iannello called it an "important first step" and could save up to $400,000 a year.

Iannello wants to bring this idea to the state level if elected state senator. If we could save $400,000 a year in Erie County, just imagine how much we could save statewide.

Today Iannello is talking about a sales tax reduction on hybrid cars.

We can use the tax code to encourage New Yorkers to buy cars that will help cut the demand for gas and reduce the emissions polluting our air. We all know that prices are based on supply and demand, and by reducing the demand for gas we can help cut the prices.

This is a great idea. If you want to ask Iannello a question or pass along a comment, you can contact her and let her know.  

SD-61: Iannello Gets 2,850 Signatures; Takes Jab At Mesi

by: robert.harding

Fri Jul 11, 2008 at 17:21:22 PM EDT

To get on the ballot as a Democratic running for New York State Senate, you need 1,000 signatures. Iannello's figure is a strong, nearly tripling the number of signatures required.

In a statement, Iannello touted her grassroots support while taking a not-so subtle jab at her primary opponent Joe Mesi.

"I am honored to have such a strong showing of support from the Democrats in the 61st. I may not have a Republican billionaire trying to buy me a job in Albany like my opponent, but I have overwhelming grassroots support from the Democrats in the district," stated Iannello.

...

"As I have been going throughout the district it is clear that my proven record of fighting for change and defending the middle class is resonating with the voters. We need real reform in Albany, and that means action not more words," explained Iannello.

According to Iannello's campaign, 100 percent of the petitions submitted were carried by residents of the 61st Senate District. In addition, 125 registered Democrats from the district carried these petitions and "none of them were paid to do so," the press release states.

Arguably the most impressive statistic is that Iannello gathered 578 signatures on her own. That's a little over 20 percent of all the signatures Iannello received.

Iannello is hardworking and a believer in running a strong grassroots campaign. I have been told many times that she is out walking throughout the district. That is one of her most impressive traits. She is willing to walk and do the hard work.  

SD-61: Mesi Campaign Responds To Iannello's Remarks

by: robert.harding

Fri Jul 11, 2008 at 16:09:17 PM EDT

Today, Mesi's campaign manager came out strong against Iannello's remarks. Here is his statement:

I think it's hard to talk about reform when you're a part of the system that needs to be reformed. Michele Iannello's campaign is putting out statements filled with very technical language that seem like they could have been written by a Board of Elections Commissioner, which her husband happens to be.  She's a member of a legislature that authorizes her husband's $115,000 per year salary for his 'part-time' job.  Because the job is part time, he runs his election law practice full time - apparently to the benefit of select state senate candidates.  It is also interesting to note that the legislature provides funding for the commissioner's staff - many of whom happen to be Iannello campaign 'volunteers'.

You can't just talk reform talk.  You have to actually walk the walk.  We welcome Michele back to the campaign trail, and urge her to engage in a serious discussion of the challenges facing our district.  Joe Mesi is going to continue his issue-based campaign to bring strong leadership, an independent voice and working class values back to Albany.

I had a feeling that this primary would get a bit ugly. Both Iannello and Mesi are strong candidates. Having met them both, I know that they offer a lot in terms of leadership and intelligence.

Personally, I want to hear how many signatures Iannello and Mesi nabbed in the last month and I want to hear them address key issues like public financing of elections, marriage equality, property tax reform, among many other important issues.

So what's the word Iannello and Mesi campaigns? How many signatures did you get? That will give us an idea of how well your ground games are working for you.

SD-61: Iannello Denounces Golisano PAC; Calls On Mesi To Turn Down Funds

by: robert.harding

Thu Jul 10, 2008 at 18:14:58 PM EDT

Michele M. Iannello, candidate for the 61st State Senate district, denounced the political committee formed by Tom Golisano, saying the contributions violate New York Election Law. Iannello called on the New York State Board of Elections and, the Office of the Attorney General to begin immediate investigations.

Golisano stated that he was depositing a check for $5 million dollars into his political committee, and press reports have said that Golisano would spend up to $1 million on behalf of candidate Joe Mesi. Iannello said that both would be in violation of campaign finance law.

"Just because Mr. Golisano and Mr. Mesi call it reform, doesn't make it so. In fact, it is just the opposite, it is nothing more than politics as usual and Mr. Mesi looks like just another politician with a with a price tag on him," said Iannello.

Golisano might be a Republican but he's not a traditional Republican. The only reason he turned Republican was for a possible gubernatorial run in 2006. That never happened.

That said, Iannello and her campaign have been outspoken on this issue and very critical of Golisano, especially when it comes to the questions of how legal this PAC is.  

SD-61: Erie County Democratic Committee Doesn't Endorse; Open Primary Awaits

by: robert.harding

Sat May 31, 2008 at 19:59:38 PM EDT

From the Buffalo News:

The executive committee of the Erie County Democratic Committee decided today to conduct an open primary to determine which of the three candidates will get the party line.

The three are, Dan Ward, who carried the banner for the party in the 2003 election for county executive; Michele Iannello, a county legislator, and "Baby" Joe Mesi, the professional boxed and political newcomer.

"All three could proudly carry our banner and serve with distinction if elected," the executive committee said in a release.

I will repeat myself here by saying that all three of these candidates bring something different to the table. Dan Ward brings a long record as a local leader in government and has the experience needed in the New York State Senate. Michele Iannello is the grassroots candidate. She is a "fresh face" and has served in local government, most recently as an Erie County legislator, for the last five years. Joe Mesi brings plenty of name recognition to the table as a former heavyweight boxer and is, according to a few people I have spoken to, canvassing the 61st district and getting his message out.

I have interviewed all three of these candidates. For a refresher, here are the links to those interviews.

Interview with Michele Iannello
Interview with Joe Mesi
Interview with Dan Ward

It is worth noting that the Genesee County Democratic Committee did endorse a candidate when they endorsed  Michele Iannello last month. However, Erie County's endorsement is important, considering the obvious population disparity and the fact that all three of the candidates hail from Erie County.

It will be a tough primary. The downside to the primary is that we won't be able to rally around one candidate to take this seat until September. But democracy will take its course and come September, there will be a Democrat to support in SD-61.  

SD-61: Iannello Receives Two Endorsements

by: robert.harding

Thu Apr 17, 2008 at 17:01:54 PM EDT

From the e-mailed press release:

Erie County Legislator Michele M. Iannello (D-Kenmore) received the endorsement of two more Democratic Committees. The City of Tonawanda Democratic Committee endorsed Iannello on Wednesday the 9th of April and the Town of Clarence endorsed Iannello on Monday the 15th of April.

"I have been talking about my proven record of fighting for change and defending the middle class throughout the district, and I continue to receive overwhelming support. My campaign is gaining momentum and I am honored to have the support of the Democrats in the City of Tonawanda and the Town of Clarence," explained Iannello.

Iannello has also received the endorsement of the Genesee County Democratic Committee. The Erie County Democratic Committee is expected to make its endorsement in the race in coming weeks. Iannello had also previously been endorsed by City of Tonawanda Council President, Carl Zeisz, Council members Colleen Perkins, Gary Waterhouse, James Kossow, and Rick Davis, as well as Clarence Supervisor Scott Bylewski.

"The City of Tonawanda has benefited enormously from Michele Iannello's representation and we are honored to support her for State Senate. We know she can have an even greater impact at the state level," stated City of Tonawanda Democratic Chair Gayle Syposs.

"Michele Iannello has shown that she is the most qualified candidate and just the type of fresh face the people of Western New York need to represent them in Albany," said Town of Clarence Democratic Chair Norman Noon.

Iannello has garnered a lot of support in her Senate campaign already. She was endorsed last week by the Genesee County Democratic Committee.

For a look at Iannello, read my interview with her. She is a very strong candidate.  

SD-61: Genesee County Democrats Endorse Michele Iannello

by: robert.harding

Thu Apr 10, 2008 at 02:23:02 AM EDT

Take Back the Senate was the subject of last weekend's NYSDRC convention. The only candidate to attend the convention from the 61st Senate District?

Michele Iannello.

I met Iannello for the first time at the conference. She is very bright and she is a true change candidate. She was also very interested in the events at the NYSDRC convention and said she learned a lot. Iannello admitted that she wasn't too knowledgeable of rural issues but going to this convention gave her an idea of what to look for.

This endorsement was important for Iannello and it was important for the other three candidates as well. Town of Amherst councilmen Dan Ward and Mark Manna also attended the meeting last night. Joe Mesi was a no-show, saying that he couldn't make it because of the flu.

But in the end, Iannello took home the endorsement.

For more on Michele, read my interview with her. She is a very strong candidate. This is a seat we can win, especially with the Republican opponent that the dark side if offering.

ON THE WEB:

Contribute to Michele Iannello for State Senate

Contribute to the Genesee County Democratic Committee

SD-61: An Interview With Michele Iannello

by: robert.harding

Tue Apr 01, 2008 at 19:43:17 PM EDT

Her political career is short, but impressive. She was elected in 2003 as a trustee in the Village of Kenmore and then in 2005 was elected as an Erie County legislator in the 10th legislative district.

Now, Iannello has her eyes set on running for the seat vacated by Sen. Mary Lou Rath (R-Williamsville). Iannello has said that she was exploring a run prior to Rath announcing her retirement. She has been looking at this race since December and officially declared her candidacy on Saturday. (Note: She will also be holding an announcement at 5 p.m. tomorrow in front of Batavia City Hall.)

I conducted a telephone interview with Michele to discuss her candidacy and the issues affecting our state and SD-61. Here is what Michele had to say about herself and about the pressing issues we face.

To view the full interview, click for more.  

SD-61: Iannello Officially Announces Candidacy; Mesi Adds Key Staffer

by: robert.harding

Sat Mar 29, 2008 at 21:15:42 PM EDT

Iannello announced today in front of the Kenmore Municipal Building. Iannello, who formerly served on the Kenmore Village Board of Trustees, stated the focus of her campaign at the announcement.

"Taxes, healthcare costs and energy prices are skyrocketing; all while high paying jobs are leaving the area. I am running because the working families of Western New York can't afford politics as usual in Albany anymore," Iannello told the crowd.

Iannello spoke about how her experience both in the private and public sector would benefit her and her constituents in the state senate. Iannello also spoke about the need to reform state government, reduce taxes, make healthcare more affordable and accessible, control runaway energy costs and create and protect high paying jobs.

Iannello, a Democrat, is seeking the endorsement of the Democratic Party as well as the from the Independence Party and the Working Families Party.

"What I will bring to the Senate is a proven record of fighting for change and defending the middle class," Iannello explained.

Also, professional boxer and possible SD-61 Democratic candidate Joe Mesi added Michael Marcy to his exploratory staff. Mesi, who is expected to announce his candidacy next weekend, has brought Marcy aboard to serve as the director of his exploratory committee. Marcy previously served in the Clinton White House and under Sen. Chuck Schumer. More recently, he has served as chief of staff to Rep. Anthony Weiner from New York's 9th congressional district.

Dan Ward, who is also in the race in SD-61 for the Democratic nomination, conducted an interview with me the day the Eliot Spitzer scandal broke. I've also interviewed Iannello and will be interviewing Mesi this week. Due to all these scandals (first Spitzer, then Paterson) I decided to wait to give these candidates the right spotlight. On Monday, I will be posting my interview with Ward and on Tuesday, I will be posting my interview with Iannello. I will post the Mesi interview by the end of the week.  

SD-61: Iannello Officially Enters Race

by: robert.harding

Thu Mar 27, 2008 at 22:00:58 PM EDT

From an e-mailed press release:

Erie County District 10 Legislator Michele M. Iannello (D-Kenmore) will make her official announcement of candidacy for the 61st Senate district on Saturday March 29th at 10:30 in front of the Kenmore Municipal Building. The Municipal building in the Village of Kenmore is located on Delaware Avenue where it meets Delaware Road.

Iannello will announce her intention to seek the Democratic endorsement for the open 61st Senate seat. She will also seek the endorsement from the Independence Party and the Working Families Party.

"I look forward to an issue based campaign. I am excited to take my proven record of fighting for change and defending the middle class to the voters in the district," explained Iannello.

Iannello has already received numerous endorsements in the race. Among her endorsers are; City of Tonawanda Council members Colleen Perkins, Gary Waterhouse, Jim Kossow, and Rick Davis, City of Tonawanda Council President Carl Zeisz, Erie County Democratic Committee Vice Chair and City of Towanda Democratic Committee Chair Gayle Syposs, the Town of Clarence Supervisor Scott Bylewski, Batavia City Council President Charlie Mallow, Town of Le Roy Council member Susan Bell, and Former Village of Le Roy Mayor Jim DeLooze.

"I would strongly encourage my opponents to put their egos aside and work to unite the Democratic Party behind the candidate who receives the endorsement. We can change Albany but we need to work together not against each other," said Iannello.

The 61st State Senate district is made up of the Towns of Amherst, Clarence, Newstead and Tonawanda and part of the City of Tonawanda in Erie County and all of Genesee County. The incumbent, Senator Mary Lou Rath, has decided to retire at the end of her term.

There are plenty of strong candidates in New York's 61st, which is a race that I've overlooked (my apologies) due to many different events here in New York. I have interviewed Iannello and Dan Ward and I will be posting those interviews upon my return to New York. I will also be sitting down with professional boxer "Baby" Joe Mesi, who will announce his candidacy next weekend.  

SD-61: Bruno Pays A Visit To Ranzenhofer; Top Democrats Still Ward, Iannello

by: robert.harding

Fri Mar 14, 2008 at 10:51:20 AM EDT

Bruno, according to a Buffalo News report, was in Buffalo and stopped in at a Ranzenhofer fundraiser last night. So far, Republicans have already lost their best candidate when Assemblyman Jim Hayes announced that he would not run for the seat. Ranzenhofer's name has been tossed around as the man to run for that seat, although nothing official has been announced as of yet.

Also in SD-61, Dan Ward and Michele Iannello are still the top two candidates on the Democratic side vying for the nomination. I have conducted interviews with both and will be posting them early next week.