Saturday, October 8, 2016

Senator Gillibrand endorses Assemblywoman Russell in race for 116th District seat

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-New York) has announced her endorsement of Addie Jenne Russell (D-Theresa) in the assemblywoman's bid to continue to represent the North Country in the New York State Assembly.

Senator Gillibrand pointed to Assemblywoman Russell’s continued commitment to fight for the issues that matter most to North Country families.

“Addie Jenne Russell exemplifies what public service is all about,” Senator Gillibrand said.

“She works hard day in and day out to move the region forward and has always put North Country families first. Addie makes a priority of getting results that benefit the region ahead of politics," according to the senator from upstate New York.

"She has a proven record of working to save and create local jobs, fighting for veterans and supporting legislation that benefits the working men and women of the North Country. I’m particularly impressed by the work she’s put into her farm-to-school program,” Senator Gillibrand said.

In her endorsement, Senator Gillibrand highlighted Assemblywoman Russell’s pledge to do what it takes to grow the North Country’s economy and boost job creation.

Assemblywoman Russell has gotten tax relief for manufacturers, more support for farmers and cut income taxes for middle-class families. She also secured vital funding to fix the North Country’s roads, bridges and water systems to keep families safe and put people back to work.

Senator Gillibrand also commended Assemblywoman Russell’s work fighting for our brave men and women in uniform, helping to create a tax credit for businesses that hire veterans and supporting efforts to expedite the professional licensing process for military spouses.

Further, Senator Gillibrand also noted Assemblywoman Russell has been a key player on the team of federal, state and local officials that advocate for Fort Drum, keeping good jobs in the North Country and protecting our national defense.

Assemblywoman Russell’s farm-to-school program, which has already been adopted by 16 North Country school districts, also won her praise.

The program opens new markets for local farmers and provides healthy meals to students. It’s truly a win-win for North Country families and shows Assemblywoman Russell’s innovative, locally driven mindset, which we need more of in government, Senator Gillibrand noted.

And to further that point, Senator Gillibrand highlighted Assemblywoman Russell’s work securing funds for the North Country Library System to help libraries in Jefferson and St. Lawrence counties upgrade to high-speed internet.

Senator Gillibrand and Assemblywoman Russell have continually pushed to expand broadband throughout the region to connect all businesses and families to 21st-century technology.

“We work hard in the North Country. We value family, integrity and responsibility, and I’ll always stand up for those values and our way of life,” Assemblywoman Russell said. “I look forward to continuing to work with Senator Gillibrand to bring investment to the North Country. We’ve got to continue the progress we’ve made creating jobs, strengthening our economy and making life here more affordable.”

IN THE PHOTO:

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (l) has endorsed Assemblywoman Addie Jenne Russell in her bid to retain her seat New York State Assembly. Assemblywoman Russell recently joined Senator Gillibrand for an event at Westelcom in Watertown.