McLaughlin endorsed for county exec by Independence leader

TROY, N.Y. >> Thomas S. Connolly Jr., chairman of the Rensselaer County Independence Party and the vice chairman of the state Independence Party, announced Monday his endorsement of Assemblyman Steven McLaughlin for Rensselaer County executive.

Connolly said in a news release that McLaughlin, R-Schaghticoke, has been an effective legislator and representative of Rensselaer County in the state Assembly, as seen in his continued popularity at the polls.

“Steve McLaughlin has clearly demonstrated his popularity in several elections for Assembly,” Connolly said in the news release. “Those results at the polls show Steve has a strong connection with voters, who obviously have faith in his work on their behalf.”

Connolly added that a number of Independence Party leaders in the county, as well as party supporters, urged his endorsement of McLaughlin. McLaughlin said last week he was interested in running to fill the job being vacated by Kathleen Jimino, after Jimino announced she was not running for re-election after 16 years heading county government.

“I expect Steve McLaughlin will continue to be a hard-working and effective voice on behalf of Rensselaer County residents, just as he has been as their state Assemblyman,” Connolly said. “The fact he has support from many IPNY members in the county is further proof of his effectiveness.”

Jimino’s deputy, Christopher Meyer, was also tossed his hat into the ring for the Republican nomination, with a formal announcement set for 11 a.m. Tuesday at the Spiegletown Fire Department on Route 40.