Democratic committees in Dutchess and Columbia County have nominated community leader Didi Barrett to run in the special election for the 103rd Assembly District. Barrett, a Town of Washington resident, has been a consultant, founder and leader of not-for-profit organizations for more than two decades. She is currently a board member of the Anderson Center for Autism Foundation, the Millbrook Education Foundation, and the North East Dutchess Community Fund. She helped launch the Dutchess Girls Collaborative in 2009. Barrett ran in 2010 for the State Senate seat currently held by Sen. Steve Saland.
“Didi has shown herself to be a leader in our community, and an effective voice for the people of our district. Since running for in 2010, she has continued her work helping not-for-profits and highlighting the contributions and challenges of local farmers. Her roots in the Hudson Valley go back decades, and we look forward to sending her to Albany to represent us,” said Elisa Sumner, chairwoman of the Dutchess Democratic Committee.
Barrett said she was honored by the nomination and touched by the outpouring of support of her candidacy. “I am committed to fighting for the people of Dutchess and Columbia Counties in Albany and to bringing the resources to our towns that will create jobs, control taxes and bring relief from unfunded mandates,” said Barrett. “I will continue to be a passionate advocate for this beautiful region and help us realize the potential of our agricultural, natural and cultural resources as economic engines and job generators.”
Governor Cuomo has called a special election in the 103rd Assembly District for March 20th, to fill the vacancy left when Molinaro resigned to become Dutchess County Executive. The special election will coincide with elections in the district’s villages.