Yates County Democrats NY

Yates County Democratic Committee

county population

Percent registered Democrat

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We are your neighbors, friends, and colleagues, working together for a better Yates County

<h2>The Yates County Democratic Committee</h2><h3>Working for a community of equal justice, economic and social </h3><h3>opportunity, personal freedom, and shared responsibility.</h3><img src="https://run.imgix.net/d1a53ec8-199d-46b0-a174-f6779c9b8af7/cf3708dd-3e0f-4b14-8b43-50266b2cf800/cf3708dd-3e0f-4b14-8b43-50266b2cf800.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C480%2C640&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="left" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed">OUR MISSION IS TO ELECT DEMOCRATS, BUILD THE PARTY, AND PROMOTE DEMOCRATIC IDEALS. Our Committee operates year round recruiting and supporting local candidates, collecting petition signatures, writing postcards to voters, and other direct outreach. We sponsor events, maintain an election headquarters during federal election years, hold fundraisers, and communicate directly with voters. We represent YOU in Yates County.We are dedicated Democrats working together to make Yates County a place where all residents can thrive.<h4></h4>

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<h3>Fighting for Our Community</h3>These are some of the top issues our campaign is focused on. Learn more about our issues <a href="/issues" target="" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">here</a>.

The Local Democratic Org Platform

Democrats have created millions of good-paying jobs over the last three years, helping our country, state, and county recover from the pandemic. But more must be done to ensure economic security for all. This includes protecting Social Security and Medicare--programs YOU pay for--from attacks by extremist MAGA Republicans.

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Economic Opportunity

The overturn of Roe v. Wade stripped reproductive freedom from many people. We will work to keep New York a safe haven for access to abortion, birth control, fertility treatments, and other forms of reproductive healthcare currently under attack across the country.

Reproductive Rights

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<h3>Contribute now to support our campaign!</h3>

<h2>Need Assistance? Contact NY Dems Voter Assistance Hotline at 1-844-NY-VOTES (698-6837)</h2>Our hotline, in partnership with the New York Democratic Lawyers Council (NYDLC), is staffed by trained volunteers during normal business hours. These hours will be expanded during the Early Voting period and on Election Day. If polls are open – someone will be available to answer your questions.&nbsp;Voters who call the hotline can speak to a trained volunteer about early voting, their absentee ballot, voting and voter registration rules, and any other voting questions they may have.&nbsp; 2024 Hours of Operation* General Business Hours: 9 am - 6 pm (M-F) Early Voting Period and Election Day Eve: 9 am - 9 pm Election Day: 5:30 am - 9:30 pm *Voicemails received outside of business hours are returned within 24 hours.What is the Voter Assistance Hotline?The Voter Assistance Hotline is a dedicated service designed to assist voters with questions, issues, or concerns before, during, and after elections. Our mission is to ensure that every eligible voter has access to accurate and up-to-date information personalized to them when registering to vote and voting by mail or in person.Who should call the hotline?➢ Any voter with questions about voting or registering to vote.➢ Any voter who needs to report and resolve a voting issue.What information are hotline volunteers trained to provide?➢ Confirm voting locations, hours, and new districts.➢ Help voters register to vote for the first time, update existing registrations, and/or check the status of their registration.➢ Provide personalized guidance on how to vote in person and by mail.➢ Help voters track mail-in ballot applications and ballots.➢ Help voters navigate the ballot cure process and deadlines.➢ Answer any question about voting with a disability, student voting, pre-registration, registering at a second home, and more!How are voting issues handled and resolved?Volunteers and captains are trained to escalate voting issues up a chain of command to the voter protection team and legal boiler room staff to ensure a rapid response and resolution.Examples of common voting issues include:➢ Registration issues, including inactivated registrations.➢ Polling Place Issues include long lines, malfunctioning machines, or accessibility concerns.➢ Voter Intimidation and/or electioneering.➢ Affidavit ballots and seeking court orders to vote

YCDC Executive Committee

Richard Stewart Co-Chair <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="mailto:joe@localparty.org">yatesdems@gmail.com </a>|

Val Brechko, Co-Chair

Dixon Zorovich, Vice Chair/NYDC Representative

Jan Barrett, Secretary

Executive Committee

Susan Wolff, Treasurer

Kathy McGrath, Deputy Treasurer

Gail Pollard, Member-at-Large

Josh Prisco, Member-at-Large

Mark Warden, NYDC Representative

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From the New York State Board of Elections Political Calendar, 2024.

Election Timeline

Voter Registration

NY Primary Election

General Early Voting

Election Day Nov 5!

Recent Changes to Election Law<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.yatescounty.org/300/Board-of-Elections">https://www.yatescounty.org/300/Board-of-Elections</a>.

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Join us! As a committee member you’re more than a volunteer. You are a duly elected representative of an election district, at the entry level of Democratic Party governance. Yes, you have real power.&nbsp;Power to help elect democrats - you identify, interview, endorse and nominate town and county candidates, carry petitions and provide campaign support, hold fundraising events and forums, pass resolutions on issues of importance, build the party and expand diversity, help select judges and state committee representatives, and manage committee websites, social media and newsletters.Please contact us to discuss your interests and learn more about the process of joining your local committee!

Join Our Committee

Visit IWillVote.com to check or change your voter registration status

Donate to the Yates County Democrats

<h2>Yates County Democratic Headquarters Now Open!</h2>Join us for the 2024 election as we work to support Democratic candidates and elect Kamala Harris as President. — We are open Monday-Friday, 10am-4pm and on Saturdays from 10am-2pm. Stop by to learn more about our candidates and the Yates County Dems, pick up a Harris campaign sign or bumper sticker, join our postcarding campaigns, or to volunteer to staff HQ.

<h2>Write Postcards to Voters WED., AUGUST 21st</h2>Join us at YCDC HQ on Wednesday, Aug 21, to send postcards to Yates County voters!Want to help elect Kamala Harris and Democrats running for state office? We are running several postcarding campaigns for the 2024 election to support our candidates and to get out the vote in Yates County. Stop by YCDC HQ on WED., AUGUST 21 FROM 10AM-4PM to label and stamp postcards, or to pick up a set to prepare at home. We will provide refreshments and pizza to fuel our efforts. Take action today!

<h2>Gov. Tim Walz Selected as Kamala Harris' Running Mate</h2>Together, Kamala Harris and Tim Walz are moving our country forward and fighting for working families. Let's win this!As Governor, Tim Walz cut taxes for working families, lowered the cost of insulin and eliminated junk fees, and protected women’s right to choose. That experience makes him the ideal running mate for Kamala Harris, who has taken on the big banks, led the fight for reproductive freedom, and stood with our allies against Putin’s aggression during her time as a prosecutor, Attorney General, Senator, and Vice President.

<h4>TAKE ACTION FOR VICE PRESIDENT and PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE KAMALA HARRIS!</h4><h4>Democrats have united around Kamala Harris as our candidate for President.</h4>President Biden and Vice President Harris have made extraordinary progress since they took office, getting to work right away to deliver for hardworking American families. Since then, they’ve continued to pass historic legislation and policies that benefit every American — and they’ll keep fighting for the democracy and fundamental freedoms that we deserve.Today, Vice President Harris is running to ensure four more years of progress for the American people.

<h2>Thank You, President Biden!</h2>Joe Biden has ended his reelection campaign for president. First and foremost, we all owe President Biden an enormous debt of gratitude for the unparalleled progress he has delivered over the last four years. He has been one of the most effective and consequential Presidents to ever lead our nation. Joe represents the best of America--patriotism, dedication, compassion, empathy, and an unshakable faith in the potential of the American people. Thanks, President Biden, for always working to make things better for all Americans!

<h2>YCDC Key Issues: Local Media Revisited</h2>The second YCDC Key Issues event of the month continues our focus on the importance of local media.&nbsp; Several years ago, our community almost lost the&nbsp;Chronicle-Express, which would have contributed to the distressing national trend of declining news sources.&nbsp; We were fortunate that our paper was saved, but what is the state of local media today?&nbsp; What challenges do they continue to face?&nbsp; Has their role changed since the last public forum on this topic?&nbsp; We will be joined by John Christensen of the&nbsp;Chronicle-Express,&nbsp;Mike Cutillo of the&nbsp;Finger Lakes Times, and Robin Blair of WYLF radio.

<h2>President Jimmy Carter, 1924-2024</h2>Rest in peace, Mr. Carter. Your lifetime of service, compassion, patriotism, and community will never be forgotten. You, together with your wife Rosalynn, leave behind an enduring legacy that espouses the best of America and the Democratic Party. It is fitting that the flags over Washington, DC will fly at half mast in your honor while a convicted criminal and adjudicated rapist who represents the worst of America is sworn in to occupy the Oval Office. All Democrats join together to celebrate your life of integrity and service.

<h2>Thank You, Vice President Kamala Harris!</h2>Thank you for your superlative work as our Vice President, for running an amazing and inspiring campaign for President, and for presiding over the peaceful transfer of power with grace, class, and dignity (traits totally lacking in your Republican colleagues). Thank you for being willing to stand up to the fascism, criminality, and corruption of the Republican Party and the racist, hateful MAGA movement that is working to destroy this country. We look forward to supporting you in whatever you choose to do next!

<h2>Thank You, President Biden!</h2>First and foremost, we all owe President Biden an enormous debt of gratitude for the unparalleled progress he has delivered over the last four years. He has been one of the most effective and consequential Presidents to ever lead our nation. Joe represents the best of America--patriotism, dedication, compassion, empathy, and an unshakable faith in the potential of the American people.Thanks, President Biden, for always working to make things better for all Americans! You will be greatly missed and history will be very, very kind to you.

Meet your fellow Democrats, neighbors, and others, and help build our community of informed, empowered voters needed to defend our democracy.NO RSVP IS NECESSARY!

Campaign and Community Events

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YCDC Coffee Hour: All About the Penn Yan Community Garden

Guest Cheryl Flynn will share the exciting new happenings at the nearby Penn Yan Community Garden, and how anyone can get involved.&nbsp; Then we’ll move the party to the garden itself, where Cheryl will provide a hands-on tour! Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn about a significant community resource.

Brown Bag Lunch Conversation: Stop the Coup 2025

Join us for a chat about the news of the day, exploring whatever current headlines have us buzzing. Bring a lunch and a curious mind for these engaging and respectful talks. This month we continue exploring the Right's frightening post-election plans by familiarizing ourselves with Project 2025. Join us to learn more about this insidious threat.

Brown Bag Lunch Conversation: Our Rights at Risk

Our Rights at Risk series looks at the stories impacting the rights of women, immigrants, voters, and more, as well as the systems and institutions that impact them.&nbsp; Bring a lunch and a curious mind! This discussion will be about immigration and asylum rights, with guests from the Penn Yan Action Coalition and the New York Immigration Coalition.

YCDC Key Issues Series: The Wall That Heals

We are proud to welcome Vietnam War and Marine Corps veteran Herbie Snyder to talk about the Wall That Heals, the traveling Vietnam Veterans Memorial.&nbsp; Snyder will discuss why it’s important for people to learn about the Vietnam era and share some of his personal experiences. He’ll also discuss the Wall’s stop in Penn Yan.

YCDC Key Issues Series: Protecting Seneca Lake's Water Quality

Bill Roege, president of the Seneca Lake Pure Waters Association, and will explore Seneca Lake and the organizations that address water quality issues for the benefit of the entire community and region.&nbsp;Learn more about the lake and larger watershed, the agencies and organizations protecting them, and how citizens can get involved in this effort.

Monthly Game Day!

What’s the answer to building bridges in divided times?&nbsp; Learning to play together!&nbsp; All are invited to stop in to explore a variety of games we’ll have on hand, or to bring some of your own to share.&nbsp; Board games, card games, party games, role-playing games - we’re open to all.&nbsp; Stop in for a quick round, or spend the afternoon deep in strategy.&nbsp;

Yates County Democrats Monthly Meeting

The Yates County Democratic Committee invites everyone interested in politics and civic engagement to join us for our monthly business meeting.&nbsp; The official meeting starts at 5:15; all are welcome to arrive early (5:00 p.m.) or stay late for social time.&nbsp; You may also join via Zoom by accessing via our Linktree here: <a href="https://linktr.ee/ycdc24" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">https://linktr.ee/ycdc24</a>.

All About Newspaper Opinion Pages with John Christensen

John Christensen, editor of our local Chronicle-Express newspapers, will talk about the role of the opinion pages and letters to the editor.&nbsp; These interactive and informative elements are key to any vibrant newspaper, especially in an election year, and can also be the source of controversy and humor!

Save the Date! YCDC Summer Picnic

Plan to join your fellow Dems for a delicious chicken BBQ, camaraderie, and special guests. $25 per person in advance or payable the day of the picnic. Held rain or shine at Red Jacket Park at the Shelter from 2pm-5pm. All donations support Democratic candidates and YCDC initiatives!Please RSVP by August 12 to Jan Barrett at ajlhorton@gmail.com

YCDC Key Issues Series: Local Media Revisited

This program focuses on the importance of local media.&nbsp; Several years ago, our community almost lost the&nbsp;Chronicle-Express, which would have contributed to the distressing national trend of declining news sources.&nbsp; We were fortunate that our paper was saved, but what is the state of local media today?&nbsp;

Brown Bag Lunch Conversation: Our Rights at Risk

Our Rights at Risk series looks at the stories impacting the rights of women, immigrants, voters, and more, as well as the systems and institutions that impact them.&nbsp; Bring a lunch and a curious mind for these engaging talks!&nbsp; This month’s discussion will be about recent rulings around affirmative action policies.

Trivia Night: Pop Culture Politics

It’s back by popular demand: YCDC’s political trivia night!&nbsp; This time we’re tackling the intersection of politics and pop culture.&nbsp;If the reality of election season is getting you down, recharge with this trip through the political surreality of your favorite fictional universes, from the MCU to the future of Star Trek and beyond.&nbsp;

Yates County Democratic Committee Monthly Meeting

The Yates County Democratic Committee invites everyone interested in politics and civic engagement to join us for our monthly business meeting.&nbsp; The official meeting starts at 5:15; all are welcome to arrive early (5:00 p.m.) or stay late for social time.&nbsp; You may also join online via Zoom by accessing the link via Linktree here:<a href="https://linktr.ee/y" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">https://linktr.ee/y</a>

Monthly Game Day

What’s the answer to building bridges in divided times?&nbsp; Learning to play together!&nbsp; All are invited to stop in to explore a variety of games we’ll have on hand, or to bring some of your own to share.&nbsp; Board games, card games, party games, role-playing games - we’re open to all.&nbsp;Stop in for a quick round, or spend the afternoon deep in strategy.

Debate Watch Party

Join your friends from the YCDC for a rousing night of issues, zingers, flubs, and crosstalk. It's the first (only?) presidential debate of the 2024 cycle between VP Kamala Harris and convicted felon Donald Trump.&nbsp; Bring your own wine, soft drinks, snacks and camaraderie to share. Of course, this event will be canceled if Trump chickens out.

Brown Bag Lunch Session: Beginner Zumba!

invites you to participate in regular, casual conversations about the news of the day.&nbsp; Bring a lunch and a curious mind for these engaging talks!&nbsp; This month, we have a special treat: Ellen Hegarty will lead us through a beginner Zumba routine.&nbsp; Join us and learn how to incorporate this practice into your regular routine.

YCDC Key Issues Series: Macroeconomics in a Hurry

Prof.Ryan Chahrour will discuss macroeconomics and its implications in our shared wellbeing.&nbsp; Understanding a little bit about this complex but important topic is a crucial part in making informed decisions about our choices in leadership. Inflation, recessions, the national debt and the deficit, tariffs, and more will be discussed.

<h2>Yates County Board Of Elections Polling Locations</h2>Visit the Yates County Board of Elections website to find your polling location .<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.yatescounty.org/324/Where-Do-I-Vote">https://www.yatescounty.org/324/Where-Do-I-Vote</a>

<h2></h2><h3>The YCDC extends its heartfelt thanks to Don Lawrence for his many years of service to the Committee and to the Yates County community</h3><img src="https://run.imgix.net/d1a53ec8-199d-46b0-a174-f6779c9b8af7/5938e1ba-d072-4e83-a5fa-6c81a1578cdb/5938e1ba-d072-4e83-a5fa-6c81a1578cdb.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C320%2C240&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="left" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="left" variant="base">As a small but mighty group of Democrats working together to make Yates County a place where all residents can thrive, it's always hard to say goodbye to our members and friends. Don Lawrence has been a YCDC stalwart for many years, and we have always relied on his wise guidance and kind presence. We will miss him greatly.We wish Don Lawrence and his lovely wife Kathy all the best in their new home and community. Thanks again, Don!<h4></h4>

Learn more about elections in Yates County, early voting, recent changes to Election Law, and more

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School Board member

Denise Hopkins

Denise Hopkins Elected to School Board

Federal Office

President

Joe Biden

Vice President

Kamala Harris

U.S. Senator

Chuck Schumer

Kirsten Gillibrand

Thanks for your support!

Make a difference this election. Our committee meets every month, holds forums and events, writes postcards, and maintain websites and our Facebook page.You can help a little or a lot. It all matters. Lend some of your professional expertise (legal, marketing, event planning, etc…), help at an event, or from home on your own schedule. Reach out, let us know how you want to help and we will go from there. And thanks in advance for your time.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/d1a53ec8-199d-46b0-a174-f6779c9b8af7/d347ba00-4b2f-416a-8acf-1f9aeed41eba/d347ba00-4b2f-416a-8acf-1f9aeed41eba.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C1512%2C2016&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="center" alignwidth="37.5" variant="framed">

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<h2>Keep up to date on the fight to protect our voting rights </h2>Democracy Docket is the leading digital news platform dedicated to information, analysis and opinion about voting rights and elections in the courts.Founded in 2020, Democracy Docket is a reliable source of news that delivers detailed analysis and expert commentary on voting rights and election litigation and policy that will shape our elections and democratic institutions for years to come.With a comprehensive database of nearly 700 cases, Democracy Docket tracks and reports on the latest election and voting-related litigation, providing filings, in-depth analysis and up-to-date developments about court proceedings.&nbsp;Democracy Docket is committed to helping people understand the greatest challenges facing voters and our democracy

<h2>Run for local office</h2>We are always looking for our next candidate!&nbsp;If you have considered running for elected office, we’re eager to hear from you. Local elections impact our lives. Our job is to lower the barrier to entry for candidates and provide support - from election law, to getting on the ballot, to tactical and strategic support, to managing campaigns, fundraising, messaging and everything in between.&nbsp;We want to provide you with the tools you need to run a great campaign, get out the vote and win. Reach out and let us help.

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Make a difference!

<h5>Photo credits</h5>Some photos © Copyright 1997-2023 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://andyarthur.org/">Andy</a><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://andyarthur.org/">Arthur.org</a>, please share using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/us/">Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.</a>

<h2>Need Assistance: Contact NY Dems Voter Assistance Hotline at 1-844-NY-VOTES</h2>Our hotline, in partnership with the New York Democratic Lawyers Council (NYDLC), is staffed by trained volunteers during normal business hours. These hours will be expanded during the Early Voting period and on Election Day. If polls are open – someone will be available to answer your questions.&nbsp;Voters who call the hotline can speak to a trained volunteer about early voting, their absentee ballot, voting and voter registration rules, and any other voting questions they may have.&nbsp;

<h2>Extremist Republicans' PROJECT 2025 Threatens Our Rights</h2>Project 2025 is the plan by Donald Trump’s MAGA Republican allies to give Trump more power over your daily life, gut democratic checks and balances, and consolidate power in the Oval Office if he wins. Trump’s campaign advisors and close allies wrote it – and are doing everything they can to elect him so he can execute their playbook immediately.Aided by an extremist Supreme Court that just ruled in Trump v. United States that presidents have absolute immunity from criminal prosecution for those official acts which fall within their "exclusive sphere of constitutional authority," Project 2025 poses one of the greatest threats against our freedoms, our families, and our futures that our country has ever faced.

We are Democrats living in Yates County working to make our community better for all. We believe in the power of local organizing and voting in every election to make real change, protect our rights, and preserve our democracy.

<h2>New York State Board of Elections Website</h2><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://elections.ny.gov/register-vote">NYS BOE Register to Vote Website</a>

<h2>New York’s Equal Rights Constitutional amendment restored to ballot by appeals court</h2>A proposed amendment to New York’s constitution barring discrimination based on ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy outcomes and reproductive health care and autonomy will be on your ballot this November. Vote to extend equal rights protections to more New Yorkers, including women seeking to exercise their right to abortion and other forms of reproductive healthcare.

<h2>Prop 1: Vote Yes on New York’s Equal Rights Amendment </h2>At a moment in time when we are seeing state governments and courts ban abortion and roll back our rights, this amendment embeds explicit protections within our state constitution to protect our fundamental rights and reproductive freedoms. Right now, NY's State Constitution includes protections for race and religion, but leaves many New Yorkers unprotected. Prop 1 would close those loopholes by prohibiting government discrimination based on a person’s ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, and sex—including LGBT, pregnancy, and abortion rights.TURN YOUR BALLOT OVER TO VOTE YES ON PROP 1 New Yorkers for Equal Rights is leading the fight for freedom in New York by passing the ERA. Click below to learn more.

So much is happening right now. Stay informed about the latest local, state, and national election 2024 news.

Keep Up-to-Date on the Latest News

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) said Thursday that Democrats will reject any short-term spending bill that includes Trump-backed policy provisions or kicks the issue of 2025 spending into next year. Jeffries noted that Republican leaders in both chambers have already backed legislation, known as the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA), that set government spending levels for both fiscal 2024 and 2025 and are now walking away from that deal at the risk of a shutdown.

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Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries: Dems to reject Trump-backed policy provisions in CR

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $7,595,180 in federal funding for the City of Syracuse to hire up to 20 new firefighters. The funding was allocated through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Program, a program which the senators fought hard to successfully preserve and fund earlier this year.

Schumer, Gillibrand Announce $7.5+ Million In Fed Funding For The Syracuse Fire Department

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced $59,115,204 in federal funding to modernize facilities and strengthen airfield safety at 26 airports across New York State.&nbsp;

Schumer, Gillibrand Announce Nearly $60 Million In Federal Funding For Airports Across New York Stat

The Democratic National Committee (DNC) and the Democratic Party of Georgia sued the State Election Board for passing rules this month that could delay the certification of election results.The Democrats, along with several county election board members, filed a lawsuit challenging what they call the “reasonable inquiry rule” passed on Aug. 6 and the “examination rule” passed&nbsp;on Aug. 19.&nbsp;

DNC Sues Georgia Election Board For Passing Rules Delaying Certification of Results

The Georgia State Election Board voted this week to pass a new rule that could potentially delay the certification of the election. The rule says the board can only certify an election “after reasonable inquiry that the tabulation and canvassing of the election are complete and accurate and that the results are a true and accurate accounting of all votes cast in that election.” They have empowered themselves to delay election certification and more discretion to investigate elections.

New Georgia rule that could delay certification raises alarm

On the 59th anniversary of the signing of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, Gov. Hochul signed legislation to strengthen voting protections and make it easier for voters to cast their ballots. The legislation includes measures that strengthen access to the ballot – building on the historic John R. Lewis Voting Rights Act of New York to protect against voter discrimination and disenfranchisement, and seeking to enfranchise new voters and standardize important elements of the electoral process.

Governor Hochul Signs Legislation to Strengthen Voting Protections and Improve Voter Accessibility

Kamala Harris has earned enough votes to win the Democratic Presidential nomination!On Friday, Harris gained “presumptive nominee” status, after the Democratic National Committee chair announced in a Zoom call that the vice president had already crossed the delegate threshold. Harris, who joined the call, said she “will officially accept your nomination next week, once the virtual campaign is closed. But already, I’m happy to know that we have enough delegates to secure the nomination.”

Democrats Deliver Enthusiasm and Results While Standing Up to Trump’s Dangerous Project 2025&nbsp;

President Biden on Monday voiced his support for a series of important and long-overdue measures that would dramatically reform the U.S. Supreme Court, including a proposal to establish term limits and an enforceable ethics code.

Biden calls for term limits, binding ethics code for Supreme Court

Two new reports show violent crime continued to fall to historic lows in the first half of 2024. One report from the University of Chicago shows ‘unprecedented’ declines in crime across multiple categories, including homicides and motor vehicle thefts, across more than 40 cities.&nbsp;Another report, from the Council on Criminal Justice, found that homicides decreased by 13%, motor vehicle theft fell by 18%, and violent crime fell overall in more than two dozen cities.

Biden Administration Drives Record Decrease in Violent Crime in 2024

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $665,310.24 in federal funding for fire departments across Upstate New York. The funding will be used to provide protective gear, training, and supplies to emergency personnel across nine fire departments. This federal funding was administered through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFG).

Schumer, Gillibrand Announce Over $650,000 In Federal Funding For Fire Departments Across Upstate NY

U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, building Democratic backing for her sudden presidential run, rallied supporters on Monday with a debut campaign speech vowing to go after convicted felon and adjudicated rapist Republican Donald Trump&nbsp;like the courtroom prosecutor she once was. Democrats have united behind her candidacy and millions of grassroots supporters have donated money and signed up to volunteer for her ground-breaking campaign.

Democrats Unite Behind Kamala Harris for President

Since taking office, President Biden has worked in close cooperation with our NATO Allies and followed through on the commitments he announced at the 2022 Madrid Summit, joining Allies in implementing a new generation of NATO’s defense plans and strengthening NATO’s defense and deterrence capabilitiesWe salute all our men and women in uniform from across North America and Europe who continue to serve daily to keep us safe.

President Biden Strengthens Critical NATO Alliance

Gillibrand, A Champion Of Government Accountability And Transparency, Announces Legislation To Reform The Supreme CourtFollowing extensive allegations of misconduct by Supreme Court justices, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced her support for the&nbsp;Supreme Court Ethics, Recusal, and Transparency (SCERT) Act&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Supreme Court Biennial Appointments and Term Limits Act,&nbsp;bills that would reform the court by mandating more robust ethics and transparency requirements and imposing term limits

Gillibrand Supports Supreme Court Reform

Governor Kathy Hochul signed nation-leading legislation to combat addictive social media feeds and protect kids online. Legislation S.7694A/A.8148A establishes the Stop Addictive Feeds Exploitation (SAFE) For Kids Act to require social media companies to restrict addictive feeds on their platforms for users under 18.

Governor Hochul to Sign Nation-Leading Legislation to Protect Kids Online

Yates County Democrats Support Rule of Law, Condemn Republican Attacks on our Justice SystemThe Yates County Democrats are gratified that the rule of law was upheld when a jury of everyday New Yorkers selected to do their civic duty unanimously found Donald Trump guilty of 34 felony counts of falsifying business records with the intent to commit election interference. This verdict was rendered after a fair trial in which the defendant was afforded all the rights and opportunities that the legal system provides to each of us to respond to and defend against the charges against him. He is currently exercising his right to file an appeal.&nbsp;Republicans, instead of respecting the verdict and the rule of law, have chosen to align themselves with convicted felon Donald Trump at the expense of our justice system. Trying, and failing, to portray the verdict as a miscarriage of justice and political hit job, Republicans reveal that they are more loyal to a twice-impeached criminal who still faces a slew of additional charges than to America’s founding principles.&nbsp;The facts of the case are that Trump was tried and found guilty not by President Biden, not by the Democratic Party, and not by partisan political operatives or biased jurists. The indictment in this case was approved by a grand jury of ordinary citizens. He was then found guilty by a jury of his peers selected and approved by his own legal team. He faced charges in New York because that is where he falsified his business records and was found guilty under the New York state law that defines first-degree falsifying business records with the intent to defraud and intent to commit another crime (Penal Law §175.10). Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, whose office prosecuted the case, is a locally-elected official who does not report to the federal government. To portray this case otherwise is a dishonest, corrupt attack on our justice system. As noted by President Biden, “it’s reckless, it’s dangerous, and it’s irresponsible for anyone to say this was rigged just because they don’t like the verdict.” While a few prominent Republicans have urged respect for the verdict and the legal process, many more Republicans, including the leadership of the Yates County Republican Committee and our MAGA extremist Congresswoman Claudia Tenney, are maintaining their cult-like allegiance to felonious Trump by lying about this case, all while claiming to support law and order.&nbsp;This support apparently does not extend to the hard-working public servants and citizens—judges, clerks, jurors, and others—on whom our legal system rests. For doing nothing more than their jobs and their civic duty, they and their families now face threats of violence, even death, for having the audacity to apply the law to those who seem to think they are above it. We say, enough is enough. The Republican Party has chosen as its standard bearer and Presidential candidate a convicted criminal, fraudster, and adjudicated sexual abuser who incites his followers to violence and has vowed to use the Presidency to exact revenge on anyone who does not support him. That is their choice. The rest of us have a choice to denounce political violence, uphold our values of equal protection under the law and common decency, and support candidates who will use their office to make our lives better and our country stronger.

The Yates County Democrats are gratified that the rule of law was upheld when a jury of everyday New Yorkers selected to do their civic duty unanimously found Donald Trump guilty of 34 felony counts of falsifying business records with the intent to commit election interference. See our full statement by clicking below.

Yates County Dems Respond to Trump Guilty Verdict

Yates County Democratic Committee Announces Endorsement of David Wagenhauser for CongressToday, the members of the Yates County Democratic Committee (YCDC) announce their endorsement of David Wagenhauser in his bid for election to Congress to represent New York’s 24th District.Val Brechko and Rich Stewart, YCDC Co-Chairs, state “We make this endorsement with great confidence that Dave has a deep and sympathetic understanding of the issues that matter most to Yates County residents and will fight hard to make our community stronger and more prosperous. Dave will find common ground to successfully address important issues while representing the Democratic values of economic opportunity, environmental protection, equal protection under the law, and fairness for all.”Born and raised in Upstate NY, Dave has served as a First Amendment and public interest attorney, was elected Village Trustee, and worked to meet payrolls in the business world. His Republican opponent will be decided by the June 25 Republican Congressional PrimaryThe Yates County Democratic Committee will work to get out the vote for Dave so that we can send him to Washington to work on behalf of every resident of Yates County.

Today, the members of the Yates County Democratic Committee (YCDC) announce their endorsement of David Wagenhauser in his bid for election to Congress to represent New York’s 24th District. Learn more about David by clicking below.

Yates County Democrats Endorse Wagenhauser

There are big problems at the borders and in Congress. Unfortunately, immigration has once again become an election year tool that politicians are using for their own political agendas. In baseball, if you can’t hit a curveball, you’re benched. In Congress today, if you can’t or won’t do your job you blame someone else.

David Wagenhauser: "Tenney Relishes Stoking Outrage over Solving Problems"

"Between Yachts and Flags, It’s Time for Supreme Court Accountability"Maya Angelou warned us: “When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time.” Just how many times do the conservative Supreme Court justices have to show us who they are before we respond accordingly?

It’s Long Past Time for Supreme Court Accountability

Across the country, access to contraception, IVF, and other forms of reproductive care is under attack. Democrats are fighting to protect women’s reproductive rights.This week Republicans voted against the Right to Contraception Act, legislation that would have protected access to birth control pills and other contraceptives and protect freedom of choice for every woman in the country by codifying the right to obtain and use contraception.

Republicans Block Right to Contraception Act

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced more than $3 million for 64 projects that will protect water quality, prevent farmland conversion, boost public access for outdoor recreation, and conserve open space. The funding awarded through the Conservation Partnership Program will support 44 not-for-profit land trusts across the state.“The Conservation Partnership Program grants are a critical component to preserving our State's natural beauty and enhancing local communities,” Governor Hochul said. “With this increased funding, we are extending the reach and effectiveness of these projects to improve public health, increase tourism, foster sustainable economic development, and empower communities.”

Yesterday, Donald Trump was found guilty of 34 felony charges. The Republican Party is nominating a convicted criminal as its presidential candidate, and New York House Republicans are doubling down on their support. While New York Republicans claim to be for law and order, they were quick to come to the defense of their boss, convicted felon Donald Trump.

NY Republicans Support Convicted Felon Donald Trump

A New York jury on Thursday found former President Donald Trump guilty of all 34 felony charges of falsifying business records related to a hush money payment to Stephanie A. Gregory Clifford (also known as Stormy Daniels) by his then-personal lawyer Michael Cohen before the 2016 election, in a clear case of election interference.Trump, 77, is the first U.S. president to be convicted of any crime. He faces three other pending criminal cases, including two for allegedly trying to illegally steal the 2020 election he lost to President Joe Biden.His sentencing for the election interference case is scheduled for July 11 at 10 a.m. ET by Manhattan Supreme Court Judge Juan Merchan.That is just days before the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, where the twice-impeached, now convicted felon Trump is set to be formally confirmed as the extremist GOP’s presidential nominee.

Former President Donald Trump was convicted of all charges in the NY election interference trial.After considering evidence and deliberating for many hours, a New York jury made up of everyday citizens doing their civic duty found Trump guilty of all 34 felony counts in the election interference case — marking the first time a former U.S. president has ever been criminally convicted and further marking a victory for the American rule of law.Sentencing will take place on July 11 at 10 a.m. EDT.

TRUMP GUILTY ON 34 FELONY COUNTS

New York Becomes First State to Offer U.S. Department of Energy Home Energy Rebate Funding; Funds Now Available Through State’s EmPower+ ProgramAdvances Climate Act Goal to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions by 85 Percent by 2050

Governor Kathy Hochul announced New York State becoming the first state in the nation to offer the first phase of Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEAR) Program funding to consumers. The initial $39.6 million formula grant will expand the reach of New York’s EmPower+ program by allowing more low-income families to improve their homes with energy efficiency and electrification upgrades

$39.6 Million is Now Available to Low Income New Yorkers for Home Energy Efficiency Upgrades

Shooting Incidents With Injury Decreased 37% Through the First Four Months of 2024 Compared to Five-Year AverageGun Violence Declined Two Years in a Row, Reaching Historic LowsNew York State Police Continue To Seize Illegal Firearms at Record Pace

Governor Hochul Announces Major Progress in Bringing Down Gun Violence Throughout New York State

As President Biden stated so forcefully in his recent State of the Union speech, “this is no ordinary time. Not since President Lincoln and the Civil War,” he said, “have freedom and democracy been under assault at home as they are today,”&nbsp;The Rural Freedom Network is a grassroots media organization supporting&nbsp;&nbsp;Democratic candidates to ensure our Democracy is safe and secure. View their new ad on YouTube and learn more about them by clicking on the link below

Rural Freedom Network Releases New Ad: MAGA Must Be Stopped

Funding from President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda Will Accelerate Progress Toward the President’s Commitment to Replace Every Lead Pipe in the Country Within a Decade and Deliver Clean Drinking Water to Communities Across the&nbsp;Country.

Biden-⁠Harris Administration Announces $3 Billion to Replace Toxic Lead Pipes

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Election Day is November 5. New Yorkers can vote early beginning on October 26 .