At our Women’s Political Rally this afternoon it was announced that U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is supporting Didi Barrett for State Senate in the 41st District. This is an honor for Didi because Senator Gillibrand is a role model for women candidates.

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand Announces Her Support of Didi Barrett

Hyde Park, NY (10/11/10) – U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced her support of Didi Barrett’s candidacy for State Senate in New York’s 41st District. The announcement was made at a Women’s Political Rally held on Eleanor Roosevelt’s birthday by the Barrett campaign.

“We need Didi Barrett in the State Senate. She is a proven problem solver, who is committed to turning our economy around and working with small businesses and communities to create good-paying jobs. This is the kind of leadership we need in Albany and Washington, and I am proud to endorse her campaign,” said Senator Gillibrand. “It is especially significant, as we celebrate the birthday of Eleanor Roosevelt, to acknowledge Didi’s lifelong dedication to creating better opportunities for young women and girls.”

Barrett said she was not only honored to receive Sen. Gillibrand’s endorsement because of the significance of the date, but also because the Senator has been a role model.

“Sen. Gillibrand has shown that it is possible for elected officials to work in a bipartisan fashion to do what’s best for your constituents. She has inspired me personally, and shown what a difference a strong, committed woman can make in government,” said Barrett. “I hope to follow in her footsteps by being the person who gets things done for the people of the 41st District.”

Barrett has been endorsed by a host of women’s groups: Dutchess Democratic Women’s Caucus, Eleanor Roosevelt Legacy Committee, Emily’s List, NARAL Pro-Choice New York, Planned Parenthood Advocates of NY, Planned Parenthood Mid Hudson Valley Action Fund, Planned Parenthood Advocates of NY Upper Hudson Chapter and Women’s Campaign Forum.

The incumbent in the 41st District, 20-year State Sen. Stephen Saland, has a dismal record when it comes to women’s issues and reproductive rights. Time and time again, Sen. Saland has voted to limit the ability of women to make health decisions about their own bodies, voted against expanding employees’ eligibility for excused leave for breast cancer screening, voted against a Domestic Workers Bill of Rights and voted against no-fault divorce.

#######