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Hudson Valley Stonewall Democrats Endorse David Buchwald for Congress

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LOWER HUDSON VALLEY, N.Y. — Today, Assemblymember David Buchwald, running for Congress in New York’s 17th Congressional District to succeed U.S. Rep. Nita Lowey, was endorsed by the Hudson Valley Stonewall Democrats. The LGBTQ advocacy group’s support showcases Buchwald’s growing momentum and his ability to build a diverse and broad coalition to represent Rockland and Westchester Counties.

“David Buchwald has a tremendous track record of supporting the LGBTQ community and would represent us well in Washington,” said Anthony Nicodemo, President of Hudson Valley Stonewall Democrats. “He’s a proven progressive who will be ready on day one to stand up for dignity and equality for everyone.”

The Hudson Valley Stonewall Democrats join a growing coalition of more than 60 groups and individuals supporting Buchwald, including the Communications Workers of America, New York State Professional Firefighters, New York State Senator James Skoufis, multiple New York State Assemblymembers (Amy Paulin, Gary Pretlow, Daniel O’Donnell, and Nader Sayegh), Westchester County Clerk Tim Idoni, Westchester County Board of Legislators Chairman Ben Boykin, Former NY-17 Democratic Congressional Candidate and Westchester County Legislator Catherine Borgia, White Plains Mayor Tom Roach, among dozens of local elected officials, and all seven local Democratic Committees that have made endorsements in the race.

“I am humbled to have the support of the Hudson Valley Stonewall Democrats,” said Buchwald. “With our LGBTQ friends, family members, and neighbors under siege from the Trump Administration’s discriminatory policies and rhetoric, we must fight back. I am proud to have worked with the LGBTQ community as a New York State Assemblymember and I would be honored to have the opportunity to continue to fight as the Member of Congress for New York’s 17th District.”

Buchwald has a long history of working with the LGBTQ community to pass critical legislation. He was a co-sponsor of GENDA (the Gender Expression Non-Discrimination Act) and New York State’s ban on conversion therapy, both of which are now law in New York. Furthermore, Buchwald is the lead sponsor of legislation to allow New York courts to recognize changes of gender in order to enable the updating of birth certificates in other states. Well before this, he successfully pressured New York’s Department of Motor Vehicles to allow easier changes of middle names upon marriage, something crucial to many women and same-sex couples.

Buchwald was also the lead Assembly sponsor, with New York State Senator Brad Hoylman, of the Restoration of Honor Act, which provides state veterans benefits to LGBTQ veterans dishonorably discharged because of the gravely misguided Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy. The bill, initially viewed as unlikely to pass, became law last year as part of a broader veterans’ package.

Buchwald is in his fourth term as a member of the New York State Assembly and has sponsored over 70 pieces of legislation that have become law. Last year, he introduced and passed the New York TRUST Act, which enables the U.S. Congress to request the New York State tax returns of top government officials — a law which Donald Trump is now suing to block. Previously, he served on the White Plains Common Council, worked as an economics researcher on antitrust issues, and practiced tax law in New York.

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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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