State Senate candidate Ostrelich begins listening tour with Tonko
HALFMOON, N.Y. » Democratic State Senate candidate and Schenectady County Legislator Michelle Ostrelich began her listening tour of the 44th Senate District, with Congressman Paul Tonko of Amsterdam joining her at her first stop — the Country Drive-In.
Ostrelich is running for the seat in the newly drawn 44th District, which encompasses Saratoga County, the city of Schenectady, and the town of Niskayuna. She currently serves as a Schenectady County Legislator for District 3 — which includes Niskayuna, Scotia, and Glenville.
Throughout her Listening Tour, Ostrelich will visit each of the 27 cities and towns throughout the 44th State Senate District in 27 days. She will spend time listening to the needs of residents as they discuss the challenges they're facing, and share her ideas to move the district forward.
“My favorite part of campaigning is meeting voters. Hearing what they have to say — their concerns, their stories, their hopes for the future — is so important to me,” Ostrelich said. “I'm honored for the opportunity to do what all elected officials must do: listen. And I'm so grateful to share this first stop in Saratoga County with Congressman Tonko — the epitome of a true public servant, who always takes time out of his busy schedule for his constituents.”
Tonko, meanwhile, briefed attendees about national issues that impact local residents and highlighted the renewed emphasis on state governments throughout the country.
“Recent rulings by this extremist Supreme Court make it crystal clear: the role of state legislatures has never been more critical,” Tonko said. “The Court has decided that guns have more rights than women, and that polluting the environment doesn't matter. Electing people like Michelle to the NYS Senate is the only way to fight back — to preserve our rights and our dignity as human beings, and to protect our planet.
“It's also the best way to ensure that NYS receives the funding it needs in this post-pandemic economy.”
“When I talk to people, they tell me what they're most worried about. Healthcare is at the top of their list,” Ostrelich added. “Everyone should be able to afford lifesaving drugs, like epinephrine or diabetes medications. Everyone should be able to go to the doctor when they need to. And everyone should be able to receive the full range of reproductive healthcare without worrying what state they live in.
“Here in New York, Gov. (Kathy) Hochul has pledged to protect patients and providers. But that doesn't happen in a vacuum. It happens because representatives are engaged. The incumbent is content to sit on the sidelines. But the people of the 44th deserve more. I'll be a Senator they can count on, a Senator who will spend her days working for them. And I'll partner with representatives like Congressman Tonko to bring federal dollars to our state and local governments so we can implement smart solutions to improve the lives of our residents.”
Ostrelich's tour stops are expected to include the following:
• July 7: Hadley — Sam Smead Park Pavillion 9-10:30 a.m.
• July 8: Waterford — Corcoran's Tavern 4-5:30 p.m.
• July 9: Wilton — Artisanal Brew Works 1-2:30 p.m.
• July 11: Corinth — Rocco's Pizzeria 12:30-2 p.m.
• July 12: Galway — C&R Restaurant 12-1:30 p.m.
• July 15: Ballston Spa — The Wind Chill Factory 12-1:30 p.m.
• July 18: Mechanicville — The End Zone Sports Pub 12-1:30 p.m.
• July 20: Saratoga Springs — Ice House 3-4:30 p.m.
• July 21: Ballston Lake — Lakeside Farms 8:30-10 a.m.
• July 23: Niskayuna — Tequila's 4-5:30 p.m.
For a complete list with more information, addresses, and updates, visit michelleforstatesenate. com/listening-tour.