November 4, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
STRONG PRINCIPLED LEADERSHIP
DEMOCRATS MAKE HISTORY WITH VICTORY IN NEW YORK’S 23RD DISTRICT
Bill Owens pulled out an extraordinary victory in New York’s 23rd Congressional District against the extreme right wing of a Republican Party in disarray, making him the first Democrat to hold that seat since the Civil War. An Air Force veteran and long-time community leader, Bill Owens represents the best of the Democratic Party and embodies our belief that government has to work for all to be successful.
Bill Owens entered this race to stand strongly with and for the people of upstate New York and to bring upstate values to Washington. President Obama and Vice President Biden both traveled to New York to show their full support for candidate Owens. Now, as our next Congressman from the 23rd district, Bill Owens will go to Washington to work along with the Administration to pass comprehensive health care reform, assistant in our country’s economic recovery, and lend his voice and experience to important discussions about national security and the future of our military in Afghanistan. Owens will continue his work to create new jobs and bring economic development to the 23rd District. He will ensure returning Veterans receive the respect and care they deserve and will serve as a strong voice for our farmers and ranchers in upstate New York, providing them with the support that they need to get the job done.
“We send our congratulations to Bill Owens for a race well run. He will be an honorable representative for the people of the 23rd District of New York,” said Jay S. Jacobs, Democratic State Chair. “The Democratic Party will not establish a litmus test for our candidates, like the one the Republicans imposed on their candidates in the 23rd. I’m proud to be a part of a Democratic Party that represents all of the working people of New York.”
The State Democratic Committee deployed troops to knock on doors, make countless phone calls, and helped to get Owens’ message out to the voters of the 23rd Congressional district.
Democrats also achieved two important victories in New York City.
NEW YORK CITY
CITY COMPTROLLER
John Liu, whose historic victory in New York City as the newly elected City Comptroller and first Asian-American elected to a city-wide office in New York, will bring financial reforms and accountability back to the City. John will start on Day 1 to spur economic growth and bring jobs to New York City by investing in infrastructure, maximizing federal stimulus dollars, diversifying investments, reforming the City’s contract process and investing in affordable housing.
PUBLIC ADVOCATE
Strong, dedicated and persistent, Bill de Blasio will bring a record of achievement to the office of Public Advocate ensuring that New Yorkers have a voice in shaping the policies of their government. Endorsed by leaders across the political and ideological spectrum, Bill has the support to hold government accountable, the strength to defend the rights of New Yorkers and the determination to get results.
MAYOR
Democrats are proud of our candidate for Mayor. In a race that was much tighter than anyone predicted, Bill Thompson mounted a strong challenge to Bloomberg and his millions, speaking for disenfranchised voters across the City. We recognize Bill Thompson’s outstanding record of service as President of the Board of Education and as our City’s Comptroller. Thompson is a tireless champion for working people and has the courage to talk about the issues that matter most. Bill has dedicated his life to building a City that works for everyone, not just the privileged few.
Contact: Edgar Santana, 212-725-8825 / press@nydems.org.
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