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Former NYPD Commissioner Ray Kelly Endorses Mike Lawler for State Assembly

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PEARL RIVER, NY – Former New York City Police Commissioner Raymond W. Kelly has announced his endorsement of  Mike Lawler for the New York State Assembly. Lawler, who currently serves as Deputy Town Supervisor in the Town of Orangetown, is the Republican, Conservative, Independence, and SAM Party Candidate for the 97th Assembly District.

Former Commissioner Kelly first met Mike at the 2009 Manhattan College Commencement, where Kelly was the keynote speaker and Lawler was the Valedictorian of his graduating class.
“Mike and I agree on some of the most important issues that we citizens face today; especially the important issues of law enforcement and public safety,” said Commissioner Kelly. “We agree that in these unprecedented times of pandemic and massive social upheaval, criminal justice and safety concerns need addressing. Clearly, there are reforms that are needed and Laws and standards that should be remedied. BUT, these new measures should NOT be rushed and enacted without the input of law enforcement – police professionals, district attorneys and judges.”
Commissioner Kelly continued, “We must not repeat the disaster of last year’s bail reform bill, rushed through the state legislature without input from these law enforcement professionals. That bill has led to the unintended consequence of too many criminals returning to the streets too soon.”
In conclusion, Commissioner Kelly said, “Change will come but common sense must be part of the equation. Mike Lawler has used that kind of common sense in his years working in government and in state party politics. Mike Lawler has the experience, the intelligence, and the energy. That is why we need him in the Assembly in Albany.”
In receiving the endorsement of Ray Kelly, Lawler said, “I’m honored to have the endorsement of Commissioner Kelly. There is no one who exemplifies what it means to be a public servant and a New Yorker more than Ray Kelly. Under his leadership, New York City became the safest big city in America, with crime and shootings, and murders brought down to historic lows. Sadly, many of those gains are being lost because of the reckless policies being passed in Albany and New York City by weak-kneed politicians caving to the demands of activists, all in the name of ‘reform’.”
“But the truth is, our politicians have covered up their failed policies on education, housing, poverty, drug addiction, and mental health by passing on those responsibilities to law enforcement – and then throwing police officers under the bus at the first sign of controversy,” Lawler continued. “We need real reform if we want to address the root problems of inequality and injustice. We need good paying jobs for all New Yorkers; a quality education for every child; access to affordable health care; and safe neighborhoods to live in.”
Lawler concluded, “Rather than defunding the police, we should be voting out and defunding the politicians who created this mess in the first place. As State Assemblyman, I will do the hard work of brining law enforcement and communities of color together to address the issues that matter most and ensure justice and equality for all New Yorkers.”

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Meet Kathleenann Cool, Candidate for West Haverstraw Village Trustee

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WEST HAVERSTRAW, NY – Meet Kathleenann Cool, a lifelong Rockland County resident and proud member of the West Haverstraw community for the past 26 years, has officially announced her candidacy for Village Trustee. With a deep commitment to family, community, and good governance, she pledges to bring bipartisan representation and a fresh perspective to the village board.

“My candidacy is about representing all residents. West Haverstraw deserves leadership that ensures every voice is heard. Together, we can preserve the strong sense of community that makes our village special while ensuring responsible growth and development.”

Kathleenann’s campaign is centered on five key priorities:

Inclusive Representation: Promoting bipartisan collaboration and embracing diverse perspectives for fair and balanced decision-making.
Community Preservation: Protecting the character of West Haverstraw by preventing overdevelopment and illegal housing while encouraging thoughtful, responsible growth.
Infrastructure and Safety: Addressing traffic concerns through advocacy for improved infrastructure and practical traffic solutions.
Fiscal Responsibility: Ensuring sound financial planning for the future.
Transparency and Communication: Promoting open, honest dialogue between village government and the residents it serves.

With 33 years of experience as an educational administrator and teacher, Kathleenann brings proven leadership, organizational skills, and financial expertise to the table. Her academic background includes a Certificate in Human Resources from the Center for Educational Leadership, a Certificate of Advanced Study in Educational Administration from SUNY New Paltz, an M.A. in English from Iona College, and a B.A. in Broadcast Journalism with a Business minor from SUNY Plattsburgh.

An active and longtime community leader, Kathleenann has served on the Haverstraw Republican Committee and held treasurer and board positions in various school, sports, and performing arts organizations. She has coached youth sports and volunteered in her church as a catechist, CYO council member, organist, and Parish Council member.

Together with her husband James, Kathleenann raised their two children in West Haverstraw – a village she loves and is eager to serve. Her campaign reflects her lifelong dedication to community values, responsible governance, and transparent leadership.

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Hundreds Gather for Rockland County Republican Party Lincoln Day Victory Ball Featuring Kevin McCarthy, Honor American Hero Sgt. Eddie Ryan

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ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY — The Rockland County Republican Committee hosted its annual Lincoln Day Victory Ball at the Pearl River Hilton that drew over 400 attendees from Rockland County and across the region. This year’s was the biggest celebration the party has had in many years and is under new leadership of Chairman Mike Lawler and Vice Chair Lauren Marie Wohl.

Held in a festive and energized atmosphere, the evening featured high-profile keynote speakers and honored American heroes, underscoring the party’s enduring commitment to leadership, service, and community growth.

The highlight of the evening was the appearance of Former Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy, who delivered a powerful keynote address focused on the future of conservative leadership and the importance of staying united in times of challenge and opportunity. Kellyanne Conway, former senior advisor to President Donald Trump, also took the stage as a special guest speaker, captivating the audience with her political insight and calls to action.

Both speakers were met with standing ovations, energizing the crowd and reinforcing the evening’s themes of resilience, accountability, and progress.

The Rockland County Republican Committee was deeply honored to recognize U.S. Marine Sergeant Eddie Ryan for his heroic service and unwavering dedication to the nation. A symbol of courage and sacrifice, Sgt. Ryan’s story moved attendees and served as a powerful reminder of the values the Republican Party continues to champion—duty, honor, and country.

Prominent Republican leaders, including Congressman Mike Lawler, Rockland County Executive Ed Day, New York State Senator Bill Weber, and Clarkstown Town Supervisor George Hoehmann were all in attendance. Speakers delivered impactful speeches that celebrated the party’s achievements and future goals. Their messages focused on community empowerment, economic growth, and strong local governance, rallying attendees around a renewed commitment to public service.

“Our party is stronger and more resilient than ever,” said Congressman Mike Lawler. “Events like this remind us that we are poised to drive meaningful progress and build a brighter future for Rockland County.”

The event also brought together a wide range of local dignitaries, party chairs, elected officials, and community leaders, reflecting the broad coalition that supports Republican values in Rockland County. A heartfelt thank you was extended to the Lincoln Ball Committee and all event sponsors, whose dedication and support made the evening a resounding success.

As Rockland County prepares for upcoming elections and continued civic engagement, the Lincoln Day Victory Ball served as a rallying point for the Rockland County Republican Party.

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