Tonko Kicks-Off Campaign for Congress
Press Release
Tonko Kicks-Off Campaign for Congress
Supporters Site a Record of Accomplishment and Commitment to Constituents
Former Assemblyman Paul Tonko today formally announced that he is seeking the Democratic nomination for the 21st Congressional District. Tonko was joined at his announcement by a progressive coalition of friends and supporters at the Labor Temple in Albany.
"In the days to come, I will ask the voters of the 21st Congressional District to consider my credentials, accomplishments and ability to represent their interests and address their concerns. My priorities are those of hard-working, middle class families: affordable and accessible health care, an education system values teachers and is focused on student achievement, and an energy policy that strengthens the economy rather than strangles it," Tonko said.
Tonko previously served on the Montgomery County Board of Supervisors and in the New York State Assembly representing the 105th District. The 21st Congressional District includes all of Albany, Montgomery, Schenectady and Schoharie counties as well part of Fulton, Rensselaer and Saratoga counties.
"In the communities along the Mohawk and Hudson Rivers, residents are looking for a forceful voice, an advocate and a fighter committed to following the Democratic tradition established by Sam Stratton and Michael McNulty," Tonko said. "Today I stand on the shoulders of those who came before me and formally declare my candidacy for the United States House of Representatives."
Albany County Executive Michael Breslin said: "Paul Tonko has served in local and state government for more than three decades. This experience, combined with his vast knowledge of energy issues -- a critical concern in our society, make him the most qualified person to represent our interests in Washington. I am proud to stand here today with fellow supporters, including those in labor, to support Paul Tonko for Congress."
Assembly Majority Leader Ron Canestrari, said: "Paul Tonko is the consummate public servant. The knowledge and experience he brings will elevate the discussions. I'm glad that he has entered the race."
Schenectady Mayor Brian Stratton said: "Paul Tonko is just the kind of Tier-One candidate we need in the important race for the 21st Congressional District. Paul has always been a hard-working fighter for the people of Capital Region, and he worked to bring so much to Schenectady's financial recovery and resurgence. Now, more than ever, we need Paul's proven leadership and energy in Washington to bring Schenectady and the Capital Region its fair share. I am proud to give my endorsement and full support to Paul Tonko as our next Congressman."
Schenectady County Legislature Chair Susan Savage said: "Congressman McNulty will be a tough act to follow. Paul Tonko has served the people of this region with distinction for 24 years. No one else comes close to matching his commitment, his energy, or his experience. We need Paul Tonko representing us in Congress."
Albany Common Council President Shawn Morris said: "Albany voters want to know their elected representatives, know that they can call on them to express their views or ask for their help. Paul Tonko knows our communities and the people who live here. He works hard at representing our interests. Paul will be a strong voice for us in Washington and a strong presence here in Albany."
Paul Tonko was a member of the New York State Assembly from 1983 to 2007. He was chairman of the Energy Committee and also served on the Agriculture, Transportation and Education Committees.
In the Assembly, Tonko sponsored the law creating the College Savings Program and fought to increase funding for upstate school districts. He was the first major advocate of Timothy's Law which required insurers to provide health care coverage for those suffering mental illness. He was the primary sponsor of the Northeast Dairy Compact, Chairman of the Legislative Commission on Rural Resources, and a member of the Mohawk Valley Heritage Corridor Commission.
In 2007, Tonko became president of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, a nationally recognized leader in energy research and emerging technologies.
A life long resident of Amsterdam, Paul Tonko holds a degree in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering from Clarkson University.
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