Footer

Issues

Header

Events Post

Headline Text Here

<h2>Together We Can! Please consider volunteering. </h2><h3>There are many ways to join the movement. Below are some common ways to volunteer. Please fill out the form above if you are interested and a member of our team will reach out to chat.</h3>Host a Living Room Chat Connecting directly with neighbors across our district is incredibly valuable. If you’re willing to host a small gathering—at your home or another location—we would welcome the opportunity to join you, share our vision, and have a meaningful conversation about the issues facing our community.Organize a Public Event Reaching every corner of our district is essential. We’re looking for volunteers to help organize informal public events in accessible spaces—such as parks—where community members can gather for 20–30 minutes to connect, learn about our platform, and engage in discussion.Organize a Fundraising Event Running a grassroots campaign requires resources, especially as we work to push back against corporate and PAC influence in politics. Volunteers can play a key role by organizing fundraising events—such as happy hours, dinners, or meet-and-greets—by securing venues, coordinating with the campaign team, and helping promote the event.Deliver &amp; Install Signs Visibility is critical to our success. Given the size of our district, we rely on local volunteers to deliver and install campaign signs for supporters in their communities.Canvassing Canvassing is one of the most impactful ways to support the campaign. We need volunteers to go door-to-door—using our mobile tools—to connect with registered Democrats, share information, and discuss our positions with voters.Social Media Engagement A strong online presence is increasingly important. Supporters can help by sharing campaign content on their own platforms and engaging thoughtfully in discussions across social media—including community pages and political forums. All engagement should remain respectful and focused on the issues we are advocating for.Write Letters to the Editor An informed electorate is the foundation of a healthy democracy. We encourage supporters to write letters to local publications highlighting issues important to our campaign and clearly expressing our positions.Help with Local Endorsements Endorsements strengthen our movement. If you have connections to local organizations, community groups, or public figures who may be interested in supporting the campaign, we would greatly appreciate your referrals.Get Out The Vote When early voting and election day approach, we will need all volunteers to help ensure that we mobilize all Democrats to show up and vote!

Text

<h4>It would be my pleasure to come speak and answer questions at your next event or gathering. Fill out the form to the right and a member of our campaign will be in touch to work out the details. All events are welcome: civic organizations and non profits, social clubs, book clubs, religious gatherings, etc. Call us and we will be there!</h4>

We Would Love to Attend Your Next Event

Long Form

Campaign Event Gallery

Introduce the videos below with a short blurb.

Campaign Videos

<h3>Emmanuel's Story</h3>Lake Placid, NY

Video

Latest Campaign News

News

Events

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatu

Our Gallery

Gallery

News

<img src="https://run.imgix.net/8bc71b11-a8f8-4e29-804e-8260c4bb3159/5ce261fd-d190-4eaa-8946-f0931c2eb70c/5ce261fd-d190-4eaa-8946-f0931c2eb70c.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C239%2C1067%2C1361&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="left" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed"><h3>Stuart Amoriell is a Northern New York resident and community advocate committed to strengthening the region he calls home. Stuart has spent his career building businesses and bringing people together to tackle the challenges facing families, small businesses and local communities.</h3>As a local business owner, Stuart’s commitment to Northern New York is rooted in lived experience. He understands the strain that rising housing costs place on working families, the difficulty residents face accessing reliable healthcare and the economic obstacles that have pushed too many young people to leave the region. His policy focus—an intelligent and compassionate immigration policy, expanding affordable housing, strengthening local economies, improving healthcare access, and supporting education and workforce development—reflects his belief that every resident deserves the chance to build a stable and fulfilling life in Northern New York.Stuart brings a steady voice and a deep sense of responsibility to strengthening Northern New York. He strongly believes we need to improve civic discourse by recognizing the commonalities and beliefs that all Americans share, believing there is more that unites us than divides us. Stuart lives in Lake Placid, New York with his wife and two young children and is the owner and operator of The Pickled Pig restaurant.

Strong communities are built through conversation, not division. When we demonize those we disagree with, we shut down the dialogue our democracy depends on. No party or ideology has all the answers, and progress comes when we listen with humility, seek common ground, and respect every voice. There is far more that unites us as Americans than divides us.

Page Intro

Last updated: January 2026Amoriell (“we,” “us,” or “our”) operates the website <a href="https://www.amoriell.com">https://www.amoriell.com</a> (the “Website”). This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you visit or use our Website. Please read this policy carefully. If you do not agree with the terms of this Privacy Policy, please do not access the Website.Text message opt-in consent and data will only be used for campaign-related communications and will not be shared or sold to third parties, except as required by law.<h3>1. Information We Collect</h3>We may collect personal and non-personal information about you in various ways, including when you visit the Website, register, place an order, subscribe to communications, or otherwise interact with us.<h4>Personal Information</h4>The personal information we may collect includes, but is not limited to:<ul><li>Name</li><li>Email address</li><li>Phone number</li><li>Mailing or billing address</li></ul><h4>Automatically Collected Information</h4>When you access the Website, we may automatically collect certain information, including:<ul><li>IP address</li><li>Browser type</li><li>Device information</li><li>Pages visited and time spent on the Website</li><li>Cookies and similar tracking technologies</li></ul><h3>2. How We Use Your Information</h3>We use the information we collect for purposes including:<ul><li>Providing, operating, and maintaining our Website</li><li>Communicating with you, including responding to inquiries</li><li>Processing transactions and delivering services</li><li>Improving our Website, products, and user experience</li><li>Analyzing usage trends and Website performance</li><li>Complying with legal obligations</li></ul><h3>3. Cookies and Tracking Technologies</h3>We use cookies and similar tracking technologies to enhance your experience on our Website. Cookies help us understand user behavior and improve functionality. You can choose to disable cookies through your browser settings; however, doing so may affect the availability or functionality of the Website.<h3>4. Third-Party Services</h3>We may share your information with trusted third-party service providers to help us operate our Website and services. These include:<ul><li>Google Analytics (for traffic analysis and Website performance)</li></ul>Third-party service providers are only permitted to use your information for the purposes specified by us and are required to protect your information.<h3>5. Data Sharing and Disclosure</h3>We do not sell or rent your personal information. We may disclose your information:<ul><li>To comply with legal obligations or lawful requests</li><li>To protect and defend our rights or property</li><li>In connection with a business transfer, merger, or sale of assets</li></ul><h3>6. Data Security</h3>We implement reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your personal information. However, no method of transmission over the internet or electronic storage is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.<h3>7. Children’s Privacy</h3>Amoriell is not intended for children under the age of 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If we become aware that we have collected such information, we will take steps to delete it promptly.<h3>8. Your Privacy Rights</h3>Depending on your location, you may have certain rights regarding your personal information, including:<ul><li>The right to access your personal data</li><li>The right to request correction or deletion</li><li>The right to object to or restrict processing</li></ul>To exercise these rights, please contact us using the information below.<h3>9. Links to Other Websites</h3>Our Website may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices or content of those websites. We encourage you to review their privacy policies.<h3>10. Changes to This Privacy Policy</h3>We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Any changes will be posted on this page with an updated “Last updated” date. Your continued use of the Website after changes are posted constitutes acceptance of those changes.<h3>11. Contact Us</h3>If you have any questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy or our data practices, please contact us:Amoriell 2720 Main Street, Suite 5 Lake Placid, NY 12946 Email: <a href="mailto:info@amoriell.com">info@amoriell.com</a>

Contact Us

<h1>Terms &amp; Conditions</h1>Last Updated:&nbsp;12/5/2025Welcome to the official website of&nbsp;The Campaign to Elect Stuart Amoriell&nbsp;(“Campaign,” “we,” “us,” or “our”). By accessing or using this website, submitting information through our forms, or opting in to receive communications, you agree to the following Terms &amp; Conditions.<h2>1. Website Use</h2>This website is intended to provide information about the Campaign and to enable supporters to engage with Campaign activities. You agree to use this website for lawful purposes only and in a manner that does not infringe upon the rights of others or restrict or inhibit anyone else’s use of the site.We reserve the right to modify or discontinue any part of the website at any time without notice.<h2>2. Information You Provide</h2>When you submit information through our website (including through a “Contact Us” form, volunteer form, sign-up form, or donation-related form), you agree that:<ul><li>The information you provide is accurate and truthful to the best of your knowledge.</li><li>You are authorized to provide the contact information submitted.</li><li>You understand that the Campaign may use the information to contact you regarding campaign updates, events, volunteer opportunities, fundraising, and other political communications.</li></ul>Use of your information is governed by our&nbsp;<a href="/2fb930e6-8824-44c3-9932-57eef44d0110">Privacy Policy</a>.<h2>3. SMS/Text Message Communications</h2>By providing your mobile phone number and opting in through this website, you expressly consent to receive&nbsp;recurring automated political text messages&nbsp;from or on behalf of&nbsp;Campaign&nbsp;at the phone number provided.<h3>SMS Disclosure</h3><ul><li>Message and data rates may apply.</li><li>Message frequency may vary.</li><li>Text STOP to opt out.</li><li>Text HELP for help.</li><li>Consent to receive text messages is&nbsp;not a condition of purchase or donation.</li><li>You may opt out at any time by replying&nbsp;STOP&nbsp;to any message.</li></ul>Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages.<h2>4. Email Communications</h2>By submitting your email address, you consent to receive campaign-related emails from the Campaign. You may unsubscribe at any time by using the link provided in our emails.<h2>5. Intellectual Property</h2>All content on this website — including text, images, graphics, logos, and design — is the property of&nbsp;the Campaign&nbsp;or used with permission and is protected by applicable intellectual property laws.You may not reproduce, distribute, or modify website content without prior written permission, except for personal, non-commercial use.<h2>6. Links to Third-Party Sites</h2>This website may contain links to third-party websites for convenience or informational purposes. The Campaign does not control and is not responsible for the content or practices of third-party sites.<h2>7. Disclaimer</h2>This website is provided “as is” without warranties of any kind, express or implied. The Campaign does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information provided.<h2>8. Limitation of Liability</h2>To the fullest extent permitted by law,&nbsp;the Campaign shall not be liable for any damages arising from your use of this website or reliance on its content.<h2>9. Changes to These Terms</h2>We may update these Terms &amp; Conditions from time to time. Any changes will be posted on this page with an updated “Last Updated” date. Continued use of the website constitutes acceptance of the revised terms.

Interested in volunteering? Have some comments or ideas for our campaign? Would you like to invite Stuart to participate in an event? Send us a message and we will follow back up. Together we can!<h3>Chat with Stu</h3>Schedule a quick call at your convenience to connect with Stuart.<a href="https://calendly.com/emmett-amoriell/30min">https://calendly.com/emmett-amoriell/30min</a><h3>Campaign Headquarters</h3>2720 Main Street, Suite 5, Lake Placid, NY 12946(518) 267-7049 Main Line(518) 302-7036 Fax<a href="mailto:info@amoriell.com">info@amoriell.com</a><h4>Media Inquiries</h4><a href="mailto:media@amoriell.com">media@amoriell.com</a><h4>Accounting Inquiries</h4><a href="mailto:accounting@amoriell.com">accounting@amoriell.com</a>

Drop us a line!

Vote!

"Dear Neighbor"

Person's Title

Gene P. asks "In reviewing your website in detail I am struck by the absence of emphasis on a Congressman's&nbsp;responsibility&nbsp;for articulating strong positions on those topics that are clearly within the responsibilities&nbsp;of Congress"

Nasrene Asks, "Can you share your position on Gaza and Israel?

Donna Asks, "I just read that in the past you were registered Republican. Can you please tell me what appealed to you to register that way, and then what made you change your registration to Democrat?"

Reflections on a weekend of sorrow, grief and protest as we remember Renee Nicole Good and those values she defended.

Statement on U.S. Military Action in Venezuela

Joy Asks, "Where do you stand on LGBTQ+ Issues?"

Elise Stefanik Ends Bid for Governor and Announces She Will Not Seek Reelection to Congress

The ongoing debate about military action in Venezuela

People With Bios

Privacy Policy

Order Yard Sign

Dear Neighbor

Would you help us build momentum? Please consider placing a sign in your yard. Complete the form and we will make arragements to have one delivered. Together We Can!

Order a Yard Sign Today!

<h3>Contribute now to support our campaign!</h3>

Landing Popup

Your contributions help us reach more voters.

We need your help! EVERY donation, no matter the size, will help us share our message to voters like you!

Donate

Volunteer

Stuart Amoriell

News Post

Terms & Conditions

Events

Learn more about Stuart by reviewing his position statements.

Call to Action

checkMark

Building and Strengthening Communities

Medicare for All: Affordable and Accessible Healthcare

Affordable Housing

Growing Jobs and Strengthening Local Economies

Lowering the Cost of Living and Restoring Economic Fairness

Improving our Relationship with Canada

<h3>Roadmap to Improving the Quality of Life in the North Country</h3>Turn on the television or open social media today and you’ll hear politicians of all stripes talking about affordability. While it’s encouraging that the problem is finally being acknowledged, solving the affordability crisis requires more than slogans and sound bites. Rebuilding the quality of life in the North Country demands a comprehensive strategy grounded in the realities of rural life.<h4><a href="https://www.amoriell.com/issues/roadmap-to-improving-our-quality-of-life#block-f6930e48-0a43-40dc-9537-bbb20e6d522a">Read Our Full Policy Roadmap Here</a></h4>

Priorities List

Take a moment to read my positions on various issues facing Northern New York and our nation. If you have feedback or perspectives that you think should help shape our policies and positions, <a href="/contact">please message us so we can talk.</a>

Issues Facing Our Northern New York Communities &amp; Our Nation

Issues

Connect With Us

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua.

Make a plan to vote!

IconVoting3

<h2>June 23rd</h2>

IconCalendar1

<h2>June 13th - 21st</h2>

Check if you're registered to vote

Check your voting location

Register to vote

Early voting locations

Voting

Over the course of the campaign, engaged citizens and neighbors ask us questions about where we stand on specific issues and problems facing our nation and communities. In addition to sending direct answers, we also post our response here in our "Dear Neighbor" section so that others can learn where we stand on particular issues. If you have a question for us, complete the form to the right and we will get back to you!

Contact

Get Involved

Issues Post

Let's show the North Country the momentum of our Democratic movement. Complete the form and we will get a sign delivered to your house.

Get Your Yard Sign

Volunteer

About

Home

Contact

Long-term economic prosperity is only possible through a commitment to ensuring that future generations have access to the best education available.&nbsp;&nbsp;We are seeing this promise broken time and time again, not only by the current administration, but over prior decades as our Nation has repeatedly failed to prioritize education and the futures of our children.&nbsp;&nbsp;Greatness demands more.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We must invest in our teachers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Their commitment to this vocation demands not just our respect but our financial support through better pay.&nbsp;&nbsp;We need to expand early childhood education through programs like Head Start and Early Head Start, ensuring all of our children have access to these important programs.&nbsp;&nbsp;We must continue to support and expand Title 1, ensuring our most vulnerable in low-income communities are not locked out of the American Dream.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And again, we mean all children, regardless of their nationality or status.&nbsp;&nbsp;This is what greatness demands.&nbsp;The federal government must increase investment in our local schools.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Our schools should be palaces that reflect our commitment to education.&nbsp;&nbsp;We must modernize schools through infrastructure grants and programs ensuring our children have access to the best curriculum, technology and facilities. We must support our community colleges and trade schools and ensure higher education is affordable to anyone that chooses that path.&nbsp;&nbsp;And to those who Dream, we must finally remove the never-ending uncertainty and reaffirm our commitment to DACA by making it the law of the land.

Long-term economic prosperity is only possible through a commitment to ensuring that future generations have access to the best education available.&nbsp;

Education

Sorrow. Suffering. Anguish. Pain. Despair. These emotions have become all too familiar in today’s America. It is difficult to look at our nation, a nation we all deeply love, and not feel frustrated and lost, saddened and disheartened by the rise of political violence, racism, injustice, and inequality that confronts us today. It is impossible to reflect on the events of January 6th&nbsp;and on the many decisions being made by the current administration without recognizing that as a people and as a nation, we have fallen short of America’s promise and commitment to greatness.And yet, while it is understandable that so many of us feel lost in the darkness of this moment, we must resist despair and instead seek the light that hope provides. This hope is rooted in a simple but powerful belief: that although our nation may stumble, what sustains its promise is our enduring commitment to the idea that we can be better tomorrow than we are today. On January 6th, our nation stumbled—but it did not fall and those who sought to undermine our democracy and destroy our ideals will only succeed if we surrender to the complacency of despair.But how do we sustain hope when American ideals seem under constant attack—often by our government, sometimes by our fellow neighbors and citizens? President Barack Obama captured this challenge better than I ever could when he said, “Hope is that thing inside us that insists, despite all the evidence to the contrary, that something better awaits us if we have the courage to reach for it and to work for it and to fight for it.”I believe that something better does await our nation. But we must be honest with ourselves and with one another: even sustained by hope, the road ahead is a steep and difficult one. Still, our nation has been tested before—and time and again, it has proven both its resilience and the resilience of the American people. As we stand here at this Civil War monument, we remember that in 1863, on a battlefield in Gettysburg, President Lincoln reminded a nation confronting rebellion that this country was “conceived in liberty and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.”On January 6, we were shown that insurrection, hatred, bigotry, and racism have not been relegated to history or buried in those hallowed fields in Pennsylvania. We were reminded of Lincoln’s warning—that we are ‘engaged in a great civil war, testing whether this nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure’.&nbsp;&nbsp;This remains an unanswered question.&nbsp;While the current administration and those who stormed the Capitol seek to cling to political power by turning neighbor against neighbor and brother against brother, we must reject that narrative. We must remember the lessons of history: that there is far more that unites us as Americans than divides us. We must reject violence and replace it with compassion, reject hatred and replace it with dialogue—even with those with whom we profoundly and passionately disagree.Yes, the work before us is daunting, and it remains unfinished; and if we continue as a divided nation, our promise and commitment to greatness will forever remain unfulfilled. So from this day forward, we must come together—liberals and conservatives--Democrats, Republicans, and Independents—and proclaim with one voice that we will no longer allow those who seek to destroy America’s ideals to do so under the false banner of patriotism. We must stand here today and declare to the world that patriotism does not require division, bigotry, and hatred, that era is over.&nbsp;And we must once again heed Lincoln’s call—to commit ourselves to ‘the great task remaining before us, to ensure that those who gave the last full measure of devotion did not do so in vain; that this nation shall have a new birth of freedom; and that government of the people, by the people, and for the people shall not perish from the earth.’God bless ALL of us and God bless the United States of America.&nbsp;&nbsp;Thank you

Sorrow. Suffering. Anguish. Pain. Despair. These emotions have become all too familiar in today’s America. It is difficult to look at our nation, a nation we all deeply love, and not feel frustrated and lost, saddened and disheartened by the rise of political violence, racism, injustice, and inequality that confronts us today. It is impossible to reflect on the events of January 6th&nbsp;and on the many decisions being made by the current administration without recognizing that as a people and as a nation, we have fallen short of America’s promise and commitment to greatness.

Stuart Amoriell's Speech: "Remember January 6th" Rally, Organized by ADK/Saratoga Indivisible, Glens Falls, NY (1/3/26)

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua.

Never Forget January 6 - A Rally for Democracy, Organized by ADK/Saratoga Indivisible

Join Indivisible ADK/Saratoga as we commemorate the anniversary of the 2021 insurrection and demand accountability for the elected officials who continue to undermine our democracy.This rally will feature speakers, signs, and a "honk and wave" demonstration.

Never Forget January 6 - A Rally for Democracy

The framers of the Constitution confronted what has come to be known as Madison's Dilemma, one of the most enduring tensions in democratic governance. Madison was deeply concerned with how we can limit government power to preserve individual rights and prevent tyranny, while also creating a government with sufficient power to accomplish its goals. The Constitution's system of checks and balances is the primary mechanism for managing that tension. Madison argued that securing liberty from concentrated power requires giving those in other branches and departments the constitutional means and personal motives to resist encroachments by others. Ambition, Madison wrote, must be made to counteract ambition.&nbsp;But Madison's Dilemma does not resolve itself. Madison argued that sharply drawn institutional boundaries are not, in and of themselves, sufficient to protect liberty. The structure must be actively defended by those who inhabit it and have sworn responsibility to uphold these principles. When one branch declines to exercise its constitutional role, the system does not become more efficient, it becomes more dangerous.&nbsp;&nbsp;This is the current state of our government.Congress holds the tools to meet this obligation. Chief among them is the power of the purse. Article I, Section 9 states plainly that no money shall be drawn from the Treasury except through congressional appropriation. This was the framers' primary check on unilateral executive action. The Impoundment Control Act of 1974 reinforced it, establishing that a president cannot simply refuse to spend funds Congress has lawfully authorized. That law was itself born of crisis; Nixon's attempt to impound billions in appropriated funds.&nbsp;&nbsp;During that time, Congress acted decisively to reassert its authority.&nbsp;&nbsp;With the current administration, however, we are seeing Congress again refuse to meet its constitutional obligations.&nbsp;&nbsp;The current administration has tested that authority in ways not seen in the modern era, moving to freeze or redirect congressionally appropriated funds through executive action rather than the legal rescission process. Federal courts have repeatedly intervened, yet the practical disruption to funded programs has often preceded any judicial remedy. Congressional oversight has faced similar strain, with executive agencies resisting subpoenas and document requests, and the confirmation process sidestepped through expansive use of acting officials.The framers designed a system of separation of powers, bicameralism, checks and balances, and federalism, intended to channel and control the self-seeking motives of officeholders so that government might police itself. That self-policing only functions when Congress chooses to exercise it. When partisan loyalty or institutional inertia causes the legislature to defer to an assertive executive, as we see in this administration, the dilemma Madison identified reasserts itself: a legislature unwilling to check the executive has ceded the very power that makes limited government possible.&nbsp;The Constitution does not enforce itself. It asks that those entrusted with its authority use the tools they have been given — the appropriations process, the subpoena, the confirmation vote, and if necessary, the power of impeachment. Madison placed Congress first in the Constitution for a reason. The question before this generation is whether Congress will remember why.

The framers of the Constitution confronted what has come to be known as Madison's Dilemma, one of the most enduring tensions in democratic governance. Madison was deeply concerned with how we can limit government power to preserve individual rights and prevent tyranny, while also creating a government with sufficient power to accomplish its goals. The Constitution's system of checks and balances is the primary mechanism for managing that tension. Madison argued that securing liberty from concentrated power requires giving those in other branches and departments the constitutional means and personal motives to resist encroachments by others. Ambition, Madison wrote, must be made to counteract ambition.&nbsp;

Congress' Constitutional Role in Checks & Balances

Come hear Stuart Amoriell speak and share his vision for NY and our Nation, along with other select speakers. Join&nbsp;us&nbsp;for&nbsp;an&nbsp;engaging&nbsp;evening&nbsp;of&nbsp;great&nbsp;food,&nbsp;meaningful&nbsp;conversation,&nbsp;and&nbsp;connection&nbsp;with&nbsp;Democratic&nbsp;candidates&nbsp;who&nbsp;want&nbsp;to hear&nbsp;directly&nbsp;from&nbsp;you&nbsp;about&nbsp;the&nbsp;future&nbsp;of&nbsp;our&nbsp;district.Community&nbsp;activists,&nbsp;local&nbsp;leaders,&nbsp;and&nbsp;neighbors&nbsp;from&nbsp;across&nbsp;the&nbsp;district&nbsp;will&nbsp;be&nbsp;gathering-&nbsp;don't&nbsp;miss&nbsp;this&nbsp;chance&nbsp;to&nbsp;be&nbsp;part&nbsp;of&nbsp;the conversation&nbsp;and&nbsp;learn&nbsp;more&nbsp;about&nbsp;the&nbsp;inspiring&nbsp;leaders&nbsp;shaping&nbsp;what&nbsp;comes next.

Dinner for Democracy, Organized by Show Up

Come hear Stuart Amoriell speak and share his vision for NY and our Nation, along with other select speakers. Join&nbsp;us&nbsp;for&nbsp;an&nbsp;engaging&nbsp;evening&nbsp;of&nbsp;great&nbsp;food,&nbsp;meaningful&nbsp;conversation,&nbsp;and&nbsp;connection&nbsp;with&nbsp;Democratic&nbsp;candidates&nbsp;who&nbsp;want&nbsp;to hear&nbsp;directly&nbsp;from&nbsp;you&nbsp;about&nbsp;the&nbsp;future&nbsp;of&nbsp;our&nbsp;district.Community&nbsp;activists,&nbsp;local&nbsp;leaders,&nbsp;and&nbsp;neighbors&nbsp;from&nbsp;across&nbsp;the&nbsp;district&nbsp;will&nbsp;be&nbsp;gathering-&nbsp;don't&nbsp;miss&nbsp;this&nbsp;chance&nbsp;to&nbsp;be&nbsp;part&nbsp;of&nbsp;the conversation&nbsp;and&nbsp;learn&nbsp;more&nbsp;about&nbsp;the&nbsp;inspiring&nbsp;leaders&nbsp;shaping&nbsp;what&nbsp;comes next.

Dinner for Democracy

Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has b

If you want to link an external news source, open up the accordion for this item on the sidebar and switch the Post Publishing Setting to “Custom Link”.

Lake Placid candidate for 21st Congressional District lays out road map for change

I’d like to start by addressing the stalled Equality Act. If passed, this legislation would strengthen existing civil rights protections by explicitly including sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity as protected categories. It would prohibit discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodations, jury service, and education. For far too long, LGBTQ+ Americans have faced barriers to fully participating in our democracy and our communities. As a Nation, we must pass the Equality Act to ensure that all Americans are afforded the freedoms and liberties promised by our Constitution and by the ideals of our democracy.To make this legislation meaningful, we must also reverse the long-standing erosion of funding for the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division so that hate crimes and discriminatory actions are fully investigated and prosecuted.I have also spoken extensively about the need to improve the affordability, reliability, and accessibility of healthcare in Northern New York. Unfortunately, the weaknesses in our healthcare systems are often felt even more acutely by our LGBTQ+ neighbors. Discrimination, intolerance, and social stigma contribute to higher rates of mental health challenges, including depression and anxiety. While mental health concerns affect people from all backgrounds, we must ensure that LGBTQ+ individuals have reliable access to culturally competent care from providers who understand the unique challenges and trauma this community faces.<a href="/060c1d25-787e-4a6b-a73d-dc6c2ff5947e/c44f440e-7825-4913-bea6-42798a4c413d">For more information, please read my speech from the March for Pride at St. Lawrence University</a>

I’d like to start by addressing the stalled Equality Act. If passed, this legislation would strengthen existing civil rights protections by explicitly including sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity as protected categories. It would prohibit discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodations, jury service, and education. For far too long, LGBTQ+ Americans have faced barriers to fully participating in our democracy and our communities. As a Nation, we must pass the Equality Act to ensure that all Americans are afforded the freedoms and liberties promised by our Constitution and by the ideals of our democracy.

LGBTQ+ Issues

Today, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt issued the following statement:“President Trump has made it well known that acquiring Greenland is a national security priority of the United States, and it’s vital to deter our adversaries in the Arctic region. The president and his team are discussing a range of options to pursue this important foreign policy goal, and of course, utilizing the U.S. military is always an option at the commander in chief’s disposal.”This is not fake news or propaganda. It is a verbatim statement from the White House Press Secretary. Coming just days after U.S. military action in Venezuela, it openly raises the possibility that the United States could use force to take control of Greenland.I recognize and respect that people in our North Country communities hold differing views on how best to secure our nation and advance our shared goals. I firmly believe, however, that we all want what is best for our neighbors, our communities, and our country. I believe deeply in our democracy and welcome open, respectful dialogue with those who see things differently than I do.In that spirit, I am addressing this statement not only to the Democratic voters involved in the upcoming primary election, but to all Americans—Republicans, Democrats, and Independents alike. Some issues transcend elections and matter more than political gain.As Americans, we share far more in common than we often acknowledge in today’s political climate. We all want a safe, secure country where we can raise families, express our freedoms and build a strong future for ourselves and our loved ones. While we may disagree about how best to achieve these goals, those disagreements are healthy in a democracy—so long as we engage one another with respect, allow room for dialogue, and work together to solve real problems rather than demonizing those we disagree with.This divide has been especially evident in the debate following the military action in Venezuela. In recent days, much of the public conversation has been marked by insults and vitriol rather than substantive discussion. I do not believe this reflects where most Americans stand, nor does it represent our best selves. America is a great nation, but we must do better when confronting serious challenges.Few people believe Nicolas Maduro was a legitimate leader. He was a brutal dictator who enriched himself at the expense of his people and oppressed the Venezuelan nation. No reasonable person—Democrat or Republican—defends Maduro or mourns his downfall. However, many Americans have raised serious concerns about the manner and legitimacy of his removal—not out of concern for Maduro himself, but out of concern for upholding American ideals and protecting our long-term national security interests.That concern is straightforward: violating national sovereignty through military force, rather than pursuing alternative means, can ultimately weaken our own national security. Reasonable people can and should debate this point, even if they ultimately don’t agree. Today’s statement from the White House regarding Greenland reinforces those fears.The idea of using military force to take control of an independent territory such as Greenland poses a serious threat to U.S. national security. It undermines international treaties and alliances that help maintain global stability and protect not only the United States, but the broader international community. Such actions risk alienating our allies and creating more conflict—not less. As the prime minister of Denmark said today, a U.S. incursion into Greenland would mean the end of NATO.Whatever national security benefit might be gained by taking Greenland by force would be vastly outweighed by the damage caused by the collapse of our international alliances. The only beneficiaries of such actions would be our adversaries. This is precisely the danger many of us warned about when raising concerns over the military action in Venezuela.Again, while we may not all agree, I urge those who care about this country not to dismiss disagreement as anti-American. Instead, we should welcome dialogue, ask serious questions, and engage one another in good faith. In that spirit, I invite anyone who wishes to respond to do so respectfully and thoughtfully—without insults, and with a genuine interest in understanding this critical issue.

Today, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt issued the following statement:“President Trump has made it well known that acquiring Greenland is a national security priority of the United States, and it’s vital to deter our adversaries in the Arctic region. The president and his team are discussing a range of options to pursue this important foreign policy goal, and of course, utilizing the U.S. military is always an option at the commander in chief’s disposal.”

Perspectives on Greenland Comments in Light of Venezuelan Military Action

NY-21 Congressional Candidate Stuart Amoriell Releases Comprehensive PolicyRoadmap: "Rebuilding the North Country Quality of Life"LAKE PLACID, NY — Democratic congressional candidate Stuart Amoriell today releasedhis comprehensive policy roadmap, Rebuilding the North Country Quality of Life, outlininga detailed vision to address the affordability crisis and restore economic opportunityacross New York's 21st Congressional District.The plan tackles what Amoriell calls the defining challenge facing Northern New York: adeclining quality of life driven by rising housing costs, stagnant wages, shrinking andunaffordable healthcare, higher utility and grocery prices, and a dwindling workforce thatthreatens community economies."Turn on the television or open social media and you'll hear politicians of all stripes talkingabout affordability," Amoriell said. "But solving the affordability crisis requires more thanslogans and sound bites. Rebuilding the quality of life in the North Country demands acomprehensive strategy grounded in the realities of rural life."Amoriell's roadmap is organized around five interconnected policy pillars:<ol><li>Building and Strengthening Communities — Investing in the infrastructure,</li></ol>institutions, and civic bonds that hold North Country towns together.<ol start="2"><li>Affordable and Accessible Healthcare — Expanding access to reliable and</li></ol>affordable healthcare for families, seniors, and rural communities that have beenleft behind.<ol start="3"><li>Affordable Housing — Addressing the housing crisis that is squeezing working</li></ol>families and pushing young people out of the region.<ol start="4"><li>Growing Jobs and Strengthening Local Economies — Creating economic</li></ol>opportunity and supporting small businesses to reverse workforce decline,including an intelligent immigration policy that harnesses the strengththat immigrants bring to our economy and communities.<ol start="5"><li>Lowering the Cost of Living and Restoring Economic Fairness — Tackling rising</li></ol>energy costs, utility prices, and everyday expenses that erode family budgets.A Campaign Rooted in the North CountryAmoriell, a Lake Placid resident and owner of The Pickled Pig restaurant, brings theperspective of a small business owner who has experienced the region's economicchallenges firsthand. His candidacy, announced at John Brown Farm in December 2025,has centered on a message of unity and pragmatic problem-solving."There is far more that unites us as Americans than divides us," Amoriell has said. "Noparty or ideology has all the answers, and progress comes when we listen with humility,seek common ground, and respect every voice."Amoriell is running in the Democratic primary for NY-21, a seat expected to be vacated byRep. Elise Stefanik. He lives in Lake Placid with his wife and two young children.The full policy roadmap is available at <a href="https://www.amoriell.com/five-pillars-of-quality-of-life.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">www.amoriell.com/five-pillars-of-quality-of-life.pdf</a>Media Contact:Emmett BevilacquaEmail: <a href="mailto:emmett@amoriell.com">emmett@amoriell.com</a>Phone: 518-637-2299Website: <a href="http://www.amoriell.com">www.amoriell.com</a>

Democratic congressional candidate Stuart Amoriell today released his comprehensive policy roadmap, "Rebuilding the North Country Quality of Life," outlining a detailed vision to address the affordability crisis and restore economic opportunity across New York's 21st Congressional District.

Congressional Candidate Stuart Amoriell Releases Comprehensive Policy Roadmap

The world stands at a crossroads today, brought there by the United States and the decisions of this administration. While Iran posed a threat to a peaceful global order, it was not an imminent threat that justified plunging us into another war in the Middle East. That threat could have been contained and neutralized through cooperation with our allies and the broader international community, rather than by alienating them. And it could have been done without costing the American people billions of dollars each day, or the lives of so many, including our service members.While it is clear that this latest war was reckless and lacked a coherent strategy and objective, what we have just heard from President Trump is even more troubling, insidious, and dangerous. By declaring that “a whole civilization will die tonight,” this administration has undermined the very legitimacy of our nation. If such a statement were ever carried out, it would not mean the destruction of just one civilization, but two. The America we have built over the past 250 years, the America for which so many have sacrificed, would be lost. This city upon a hill would fade, and the beacon of hope and light it has represented to the world would be extinguished.We cannot allow this to happen.Every member of Congress must return immediately and pass legislation to halt hostilities and ensure that this administration cannot commit war crimes or acts of genocide in the name of this great nation. This is a cause that should transcend political ideology.Once such legislation is enacted, if President Trump defies the law and continues down a path of aggression, he must be removed from office without delay.Congress must act now. Failure to do so would make its members complicit in this war, and the consequences would forever stain the institution. But the American people also have a role to play. We must call our representatives and demand immediate action, before it is too late.&nbsp; Today must be a time of both prayer and action.&nbsp;

The world stands at a crossroads today, brought there by the United States and the decisions of this administration. While Iran posed a threat to a peaceful global order, it was not an imminent threat that justified plunging us into another war in the Middle East. That threat could have been contained and neutralized through cooperation with our allies and the broader international community, rather than by alienating them. And it could have been done without costing the American people billions of dollars each day, or the lives of so many, including our service members.

Statement on Iran (4/7/26)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEApril 22, 2026PARTY BOSS CAUGHT THREATENING DEMOCRAT VOTERS IN WRITINGJason Clark has a problem. We have the texts.(SARANAC LAKE, NY) — The Amoriell campaign has obtained text messages in which Jason Clark, Vice Chair of the Essex County Democratic Committee and Assistant Secretary of the New York State Democratic Committee, personally threatened three Democratic activists — Jesse Murnane, Colleen Mannix, and Laura Garrant — who support this campaign. Clark told them they were banned from the May 7 event at RiverTrail Beerworks in Saranac Lake and warned that police would remove them if they showed up.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/8bc71b11-a8f8-4e29-804e-8260c4bb3159/0db8f086-1cc6-4dc7-8b21-241d32471002/0db8f086-1cc6-4dc7-8b21-241d32471002.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C947%2C1361&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="left" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="left" variant="base">Clark made it up. The Saranac Lake Police Department was never contacted. This was a deliberate lie, designed to intimidate Democratic voters into staying home.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/8bc71b11-a8f8-4e29-804e-8260c4bb3159/ad53a0e9-410e-4dd9-8e33-cf3eba762008/ad53a0e9-410e-4dd9-8e33-cf3eba762008.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C158%2C947%2C1219&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="left" alignwidth="37.5" tiltdirection="left" variant="base">This is not an isolated incident. Clark has a documented history of intimidation against Democratic activists who challenge the party establishment and he believes his job is to control the process and deliver the anointed candidate — not to serve the voters.Democratic voters are angry — and they should be.&nbsp; RiverTrail Beerworks is a public space. It is not a closed private event. Democratic voters have every right to be there. The party establishment has chosen its candidate, and anyone who gets in the way gets threatened by their own party boss. That is not democracy. That is voter intimidation. And it is illegal.Jason Clark and the Democrats running this operation are breaking the law. The Democratic Party belongs to the voters. Not to Jason Clark.These communications have been referred to Franklin County District Attorney Elizabeth Crawford.###Contact: Jennifer Brown, Miller Media Consulting<a href="mailto:jlbrown35@gmail.com">Jennifer Brown</a>&nbsp;| 917.837.7226Hank Sheinkopf, Sheinkopf Communications<a href="mailto:hank@sheinkopf.com">hank@sheinkopf.com</a>&nbsp;| 646-294-6571

Party Boss Caught Threatening Democrat Voters in Writing

As a lifelong Catholic, my personal actions and principles are grounded in the tenants of my faith. Of the many values Christians of all denominations hold dear, compassion is core. “Blessed are those that show compassion, for they shall receive mercy.” (Matthew 5:7) As an American, my beliefs are also shaped by our ideals—those principles that have defined this nation’s greatness for generations. Among these are the concepts of personal freedom and religious liberty. I believe each person must make decisions based on their own beliefs, religious convictions, and experiences. In a society that embraces diversity and freedom, the government cannot replace this deeply individual decision.&nbsp;Moreover, I believe compassion is more effective than legislation, guilt and coercion. If we want to reduce unwanted pregnancies, we must focus on improved mental and physical health care, childcare, education, and economic opportunity—not in criminalizing women or their doctors. Restrictive laws make America less free and more dangerous.&nbsp;&nbsp;American greatness demands more.I recognize that people of goodwill, including many fellow Catholics and Christians, have deep convictions when it comes to abortion and reproductive freedom. But in a pluralistic democracy, the role of government is not to impose the beliefs of some on all.&nbsp;&nbsp;My commitment is to uphold personal liberty and ensure that every individual can make private medical decisions without government interference or fear of punishment.

As a lifelong Catholic, my personal actions and principles are grounded in the tenants of my faith. Of the many values Christians of all denominations hold dear, compassion is core. “Blessed are those that show compassion, for they shall receive mercy.” (Matthew 5:7) As an American, my beliefs are also shaped by our ideals—those principles that have defined this nation’s greatness for generations. Among these are the concepts of personal freedom and religious liberty. I believe each person must make decisions based on their own beliefs, religious convictions, and experiences. In a society that embraces diversity and freedom, the government cannot replace this deeply individual decision.&nbsp;

Reproductive Freedom

Improving the healthcare system isn’t limited to just physical care alone, as our communities also face a significant shortage of mental health providers, leaving residents without the essential care they need.&nbsp;&nbsp;Many of our neighbors struggle with the burden of depression, and too many of our brightest lights have been extinguished due to suicide. Too many in our communities struggle with addiction, and too many of our neighbors have been lost to the bottle or pill.&nbsp;&nbsp;As a nation and a community, we must do better at recognizing those who battle these issues and ensure they have a path out of the darkness.

Improving the healthcare system isn’t limited to just physical care alone, as our communities also face a significant shortage of mental health providers, leaving residents without the essential care they need.

Mental Health

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is an incredibly tragic and complex issue.&nbsp;&nbsp;I certainly don't have more wisdom on this issue than all those who came before and tried to develop solutions.&nbsp;&nbsp;That said, I believe it is imperative that all candidates and politicians make their position on this issue clear.&nbsp;&nbsp;Mine is a position that rejects the false choice between unconditional support and wholesale condemnation. It is a position rooted in moral consistency: one can support the existence and security of Israel, recognize terrorism for what it is, mourn the death of every innocent civilian, and still demand accountability from those in power; including governments that act in the name of nations we support.Support for Israel, With Clear LimitsIsrael's right to exist as a sovereign nation is not in dispute. The State of Israel was established in the wake of one of history's most horrific genocides, and the Jewish people's connection to the land is deep, historical, and legitimate. The international community's recognition of Israeli sovereignty is appropriate, and I completely reject efforts to delegitimize Israel as a state.Support for Israel, however, is not the same as support for any particular Israeli government. The current government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a coalition that includes far-right ministers who have openly called for the ethnic cleansing of Palestinians and the annexation of Gaza, does not represent the values of liberal democracy that Israel has historically aspired to embody. Many Israelis themselves have protested vigorously against this government's policies, its undermining of judicial independence, political graft and corruption, and its conduct in Gaza.&nbsp;&nbsp;I, too, reject the Netanyahu Coalition as one that works counter to those values our nation stands for.To support Israel is to support its people, its democratic institutions, and its security. It is not to grant a blank check to a government whose actions have drawn condemnation from international courts, former allies, and Israel's own civil society. Genuine friendship sometimes requires speaking hard truths.Hamas and Hezbollah Are Terrorist OrganizationsHamas and Hezbollah are terrorist organizations—period. This is not a contested characterization; it is a legal and moral designation supported by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, and numerous others.&nbsp;&nbsp;Both organizations have deliberately targeted civilians, used human shields, fired rockets indiscriminately into populated areas, and explicitly called for the annihilation of Israel and the Jewish people.The attacks carried out by Hamas on October 7, 2023, in which approximately 1,200 Israelis were killed and over 250 taken hostage, were acts of terrorism by any definition. They were barbaric, deliberate, and unjustifiable. There is no political grievance, however legitimate, that justifies the massacre of civilians, the rape of women, or the abduction of children.I believe that&nbsp;acknowledging Palestinian suffering does not require softening this condemnation. In fact, I believe that Hamas's continued governance of Gaza and its exploitation of civilian populations for military cover have deepened Palestinian suffering. The Palestinian people deserve leadership that prioritizes their welfare and dignity, not armed factions that use them as pawns in an endless war.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hamas and Hezbollah should be shown no quarter and have no continued place in this world.The Right to Self-Defense, And Its LimitsEvery nation possesses the inherent right to self-defense under international law, including Article 51 of the United Nations Charter. Israel was attacked, and Israel has the right, and the obligation, to protect its citizens and to pursue those responsible. No reasonable government, official, or legislator disputes that a military response to the October 7 attacks was both legally justified and strategically necessary.However, the right to self-defense is not unlimited. International humanitarian law, including the Geneva Conventions, the principle of proportionality, and the prohibition on collective punishment, binds all parties. The right to defend oneself does not include the right to starve a population, to destroy civilian infrastructure without military necessity, or to conduct operations that kill tens of thousands of non-combatants.The question is not whether Israel had the right to respond to terrorism. It did. The question is whether the manner of that response has respected the laws of armed conflict and the fundamental dignity of human life.&nbsp;&nbsp;It did not.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Death of Civilians in Gaza Constitutes War CrimesThe scale of civilian death in Gaza is not an abstraction. As of early 2026, credible estimates place the Palestinian death toll at more than 70,000,&nbsp;&nbsp;a figure that heartbreakingly includes thousands of children. Entire neighborhoods have been reduced to rubble. Hospitals, schools, refugee camps, and clearly marked aid convoys have been struck. Humanitarian access has been systematically obstructed and denied. Famine conditions were deliberately allowed to develop, leaving citizens in the most deplorable and desperate state.These are not incidental tragedies of war. Under international humanitarian law, the deliberate or reckless targeting of civilians, the use of disproportionate force, the destruction of facilities and infrastructure indispensable to civilian survival, and the use of starvation as a weapon of war are war crimes. The International Court of Justice has found plausible evidence of genocide. The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for senior Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Netanyahu.&nbsp;&nbsp;I believe both international bodies are justified in these actions and that accountability of the Netanyahu regime is mandatory.To acknowledge these facts is not antisemitism. It is not a denial of Israel's right to exist or a minimization of Hamas's crimes. I am applying the same legal and moral standard to all parties, the standard we demand of every nation that calls itself a democracy committed to the rule of law. The deaths of Palestinian civilians demand accountability, not rationalization.Atrocities do not cancel each other out. Hamas's terrorism does not justify Israeli war crimes, just as Israeli military operations do not justify Hamas's terrorism. Both can be condemned simultaneously and with equal moral conviction.The Imperative of a Two-State SolutionHistory has shown us there is no military solution to this conflict. History has demonstrated this with devastating clarity. Decades of occupation, war, blockade, and reprisal have produced only more suffering on both sides.&nbsp;&nbsp;I have long believed the only path to lasting peace, for Israelis and Palestinians alike, is a negotiated two-state solution that provides both peoples with safety, sovereignty, and dignity.A viable Palestinian state must have genuine sovereignty, contiguous territory, and the institutional capacity to govern. It cannot be a collection of disconnected enclaves under Israeli military oversight. At the same time, Israel's security concerns must be taken seriously and addressed through concrete guarantees and international monitoring mechanisms and involvement.The international community, including the United States, the European Union, Arab nations, and regional powers, bears collective responsibility for making this happen. Decades of half-measures, failed negotiations, and diplomatic cover for the status quo have contributed to the catastrophe now unfolding. That must change.&nbsp;The Duty to Rebuild GazaThe international community now faces a moral obligation of historic proportions: the reconstruction of Gaza. What has been destroyed, homes, hospitals, universities, water systems, roads, and entire communities, must be rebuilt. This is not charity. It is a legal and moral duty owed to a civilian population that has suffered catastrophically.Reconstruction must be substantial, sustained, and unconditional on Palestinian political compliance. It must be funded by the international community, including those nations whose military and diplomatic support enabled the destruction—the United States and Israel, among them. It must be designed in partnership with Palestinian civil society, not imposed from outside. And it must be accompanied by a genuine political horizon: a peace process with real stakes and real consequences, not a managed occupation dressed up in the language of diplomacy.A rebuilt Gaza that remains under blockade or occupation will not produce stability. Reconstruction without political resolution is a foundation on sand. The two must proceed together, with international oversight, accountability mechanisms, and a genuine commitment to Palestinian self-determination.ConclusionThis is not a comfortable position for me, or any politician. It will satisfy neither those who demand unconditional support for Israeli government policy nor those who refuse to acknowledge Israel's legitimate security needs or Hamas's terrorism. But moral clarity sometimes means standing in uncomfortable places.The position outlined here rests on a simple foundation: human life has equal value, regardless of nationality or religion. Palestinian children and Israeli children both deserve to grow up in safety. Both peoples have suffered too much, for too long. And the international community, too long complicit in a status quo that served no one, must finally summon the will to act.

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is an incredibly tragic and complex issue.&nbsp;&nbsp;I certainly don't have more wisdom on this issue than all those who came before and tried to develop solutions.&nbsp;&nbsp;That said, I believe it is imperative that all candidates and politicians make their position on this issue clear.&nbsp;&nbsp;Mine is a position that rejects the false choice between unconditional support and wholesale condemnation. It is a position rooted in moral consistency: one can support the existence and security of Israel, recognize terrorism for what it is, mourn the death of every innocent civilian, and still demand accountability from those in power; including governments that act in the name of nations we support.

Gaza & The Israeli-Patestinian Conflict

The American healthcare system has a stranglehold on the American worker. It restricts job mobility, limits career advancement, and suppresses wage growth as costs continue to spiral out of control. The immense financial burden placed on individuals and families generates constant stress, uncertainty, and hardship. There is no meaningful path to improving the lives of American workers without finally confronting our broken healthcare system.For decades, the United States has recognized this failure. Since the Truman administration in the 1940s, leaders across both parties have acknowledged that our healthcare system is inadequate. There have been important steps forward—most notably the creation of Medicare and Medicaid in 1965 under President Johnson, and the passage of the Affordable Care Act in 2010 under President Obama. Yet despite these efforts, the system remains fundamentally flawed. That must change.The evidence is overwhelming. The United States spends more per capita on healthcare than any other developed nation, yet consistently fails to achieve comparable outcomes. Medical bills remain the leading cause of personal bankruptcy. Nearly one in ten Americans is uninsured—including close to four million children. Forty percent of Americans skip prescribed medications because they cannot afford them, and more than thirty percent forgo routine care for the same reason. Meanwhile, the United States holds the grim distinction of having the highest maternal and infant mortality rates in the developed world. That bears repeating: the highest maternal and infant mortality rates in the developed world. And still, healthcare and insurance costs continue to climb at an unsustainable rate of ten to twenty percent annually. This is unacceptable. We must do better.A single-payer system—such as Medicare for All—offers the strongest path forward. By reducing administrative overhead from nearly twenty percent of total healthcare spending to an estimated two to three percent, and by leveraging far greater bargaining power with providers, a single-payer system could substantially lower costs across the board. For these reasons, I believe a single-payer model offers the greatest likelihood of delivering lasting cost control alongside guaranteed coverage for every American.Accordingly, I will vote for and co-sponsor Medicare for All as a member of the House of Representatives. As part of that legislative effort and process, I will also work to close the existing coverage gaps and high out-of-pocket costs that are often found within the current Medicare system, ensuring that what we build is a truly comprehensive program that meets the needs of all Americans in terms of cost, accessibility, and quality of care.That said, those who have heard me speak know that I have raised real concerns about whether Medicare for All can be enacted in the near term. Political reality demands honesty: passage will likely require reclaiming control of Congress in this cycle and the executive branch two years later—it is highly unlikely that the Trump administration would sign Medicare for All legislation, nor that we will gain a veto-proof majority in the midterm elections. I will continue to advocate for Medicare for All and a single-payer system in every way possible from day one, but we cannot allow the perfect to become the enemy of the good. As we work toward single-payer comprehensive reform, we cannot leave Americans to struggle without coverage or care in the meantime.My goal is straightforward: ensure that one hundred percent of Americans have access to affordable, reliable healthcare. With that in mind, alongside my support for Medicare for All, I will introduce interim legislation designed to bridge the gap between our current system and a single-payer future. I call this proposal&nbsp;Medicare Open to All.Medicare Open to All ActAt its core, this legislation would make Medicare immediately available to every American as we work toward a single-payer model. It would also address current gaps in Medicare coverage and high out-of-pocket costs, and provide comprehensive prescription and dental coverage.Enrollment would be guaranteed to anyone who seeks it. To ensure true affordability, subsidies would be available to individuals and families earning up to 400% of the federal poverty level.Americans who prefer private insurance would retain that option. But by opening Medicare to all, we would create an immediate, practical solution—one that guarantees accessible and affordable coverage, enhances job mobility by decoupling healthcare from employment, and relieves employers of the escalating burden of providing coverage. That relief translates directly into higher wages and greater capacity for businesses to invest in growth.Healthcare is not merely a policy debate. It is a moral and economic imperative—a matter of life and death. No American should be forced to choose between their health and their livelihood, between filling a prescription and paying rent, or between staying in a job they have outgrown and gambling with their family's security. We have the evidence, the tools, and the responsibility to act.By fighting for Medicare for All—and by opening Medicare to everyone while that fight continues—we can deliver immediate relief, restore dignity to working families, and build a healthcare system that serves people, not profits. The time for incremental hesitation has passed. The time to act is now.

The American healthcare system has a stranglehold on the American worker. It restricts job mobility, limits career advancement, and suppresses wage growth as costs continue to spiral out of control. The immense financial burden placed on individuals and families generates constant stress, uncertainty, and hardship. There is no meaningful path to improving the lives of American workers without finally confronting our broken healthcare system.

Health Insurance Affordability & Reform

Join local residents for a State of the Union Watch Party with congressional candidate Stuart Amoriell at The Pickled Pig in Lake Placid. The Committee to Elect Stuart Amoriell will provide beer, and wine. Tickets Required.

State of the Union Watch Party

Inauguration Watch Party

WRGB Studios-Schenectady, NY — Stuart Amoriell, a Democratic candidate running in New York's 21st Congressional District, joined Power &amp; Politics this week, discussing his background, his campaign and some of the major issues facing New Yorkers, and Americans right now.

Stuart Amoriell talks being an "independent Democrat", immigration, Iran, NY-21 campaign

Across the workforce, women and minority groups continue to face systemic barriers that limit their opportunities, recognition, and advancement in the workforce. These challenges often show up in unequal pay for equal work, underrepresentation in leadership roles, biased hiring and promotion practices, and workplace cultures that can exclude or undervalue diverse perspectives.Addressing these inequities requires more than lip-service commitments to diversity; they require systemic changes and efforts, many of which have been dismantled and undermined by this administration. Organizations need to adopt transparent pay structures, implement fair and standardized hiring and evaluation processes, and actively invest in mentorship and sponsorship programs for underrepresented groups. Corporate leadership must also be held accountable for measurable progress, ensuring that inclusion is not just a stated value on a website or PowerPoint, but a practiced one in everyday business. Additionally, fostering open dialogue, providing bias training, and creating safe channels for reporting discrimination can help shift workplace culture toward a genuinely equitable one.Supporting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives is a key part of this effort because they provide structured, intentional ways to identify and correct systemic imbalances. DEI is not just about representation; it’s about ensuring fair access to opportunities, creating environments where people feel respected and valued, and removing barriers that prevent individuals from contributing fully. When done thoughtfully, DEI efforts can improve employee satisfaction, reduce turnover, and enhance innovation by bringing a wider range of perspectives to problem-solving. It is hard to understand how any of these goals would be objectionable to anyone. Nevertheless, DEI efforts have been under constant attack from this administration.Ultimately, building a fair workforce benefits not only those who have been marginalized but also organizations as a whole. Companies that prioritize equity and inclusion tend to be more adaptable, competitive, and reflective of the diverse communities they serve, making fairness both a moral imperative and a practical advantage. In other words, diversity is our strength.

Across the workforce, women and minority groups continue to face systemic barriers that limit their opportunities, recognition, and advancement in the workforce. These challenges often show up in unequal pay for equal work, underrepresentation in leadership roles, biased hiring and promotion practices, and workplace cultures that can exclude or undervalue diverse perspectives.

DEI & Supporting Minorities in the Workplace

The North Country is defined by resilience, independence, community pride and unmatched natural beauty. Yet for too long, families across Northern New York have faced rising housing costs, stagnant wages, shrinking access to healthcare, higher utility prices, a declining workforce, and a growing sense that opportunity is slipping away.&nbsp;In short, our quality of life is declining.

Roadmap to Improving Our Quality of Life

For far too long, we’ve been told that the answers to our problems must come from Washington. I don’t believe that’s true. Washington cannot—and should not—be expected to solve the challenges facing our communities.Real solutions start at the local level. The strength of Northern New York lies in its civic organizations, community groups, nonprofits, houses of worship, businesses, and neighborhood networks—people who are working every day to support their neighbors and tackle real issues head-on. Here and across the country, local groups are leading the way in solving local challenges, such as expanding affordability and access to healthcare, housing, childcare, and eldercare, to name just a few.Washington does have an important role to play—but not as the primary problem-solver. Its responsibility should be to support local efforts, provide resources, and empower communities to develop solutions that reflect their unique needs.I’m running for Congress to restore that balance—and to make sure Washington starts working for us.

Our Strength Comes From Our Communities, Not Washington

NY For All-March for the Disappeared

Join the New York for All Coalition in a march and community vigil to honor&nbsp;every New Yorker torn from their loved ones &amp; to demand that our leaders pass the New York for All Act to ensure our state resources are never used to DISAPPEAR our neighbors!&nbsp;

NY-21 primary debates: Constantino, Gendebien decline invitaitons

&nbsp;A Compassionate Approach to Immigration Policy&nbsp;Few areas of government better illustrate the repeated failure of our major political parties to reach a compromise than our broken and flawed approach to immigration policy. &nbsp;This ongoing failure stems from a mix of opposing ideologies, political strategy, and entrenched stubbornness.&nbsp;&nbsp;The result is not only a missed opportunity to harness the economic strength immigrants bring to our nation but also a moral crisis—evident in the dehumanizing, inconsistent and arbitrary treatment of those brave migrants who crossed deserts, navigated raging waters and battled jungles with nothing but the clothes on their backs in search of a better tomorrow. &nbsp;&nbsp;While it would be naïve to ignore how racism and prejudice have worsened the current immigration crisis, it is equally unfair to assume that every American who supports enforcement of immigration laws does so from such motives. It is therefore incumbent upon us to appeal to our fellow citizens with compassion and reason—to make the case that immigration is not only a moral imperative, but also critical to the economic and social vitality of our nation.&nbsp;The Economic Case for Immigration<ul><li>Immigrants help fill labor shortages, stabilizing prices and maintaining production levels—both crucial to controlling inflation and growing our economy.</li><li>Immigrants enable the United States to stay globally competitive by attracting top talent in fields such as technology and science.</li><li>Immigrants increase the demand for goods and services in the United States.</li><li>Entrepreneurship and small business ownership is higher among immigrant populations, driving economic growth, fostering innovation and improving living standards within our communities.</li><li>Contrary to some opinions, immigrants contribute billions annually in tax revenue through income tax, sales tax, property tax and payroll tax.</li><li>In rural areas such as those in our Northern New York communities, immigrant populations help revitalize areas by reversing population decline, reducing labor shortages, supporting school enrollment and through entrepreneurship and local business ownership.</li></ul>&nbsp;Enforcement with Compassion&nbsp;While we continue the fight for a just, intelligent, and compassionate immigration policy, we must also acknowledge present realities. Our system is deeply flawed, but our government still has a duty to enforce the law. That said, recent enforcement practices have too often crossed moral and constitutional lines, violating the very liberties our democracy claims to protect.&nbsp;Worse still, enforcement is sometimes executed in a manner that seems designed to humiliate and harm, rather than uphold justice. This should trouble us all. If we agree on nothing else, can we at least recognize the strength and courage it takes to pursue the American dream?&nbsp;&nbsp;Rather than recognizing migrants' resilience, we&nbsp;have distorted what American "strength" truly means. Strength is not found in cruelty or exclusion. It is the mother who sends her children to school and walks to work each morning not knowing if she will make it home again to see them in the evening. It is the father who fled oppression, risking his life in the hope of a better future for his family. It is the millions who applied for legal status in good faith, believing in the promise of American fairness, only to be met with delay, denial or indifference.&nbsp;&nbsp;Yes, laws must be enforced—but they must be enforced with compassion and fairness. When we are compelled to remove law-abiding, hard-working individuals, it should be done with sorrow, not celebration.&nbsp;Upholding Rights and Due ProcessEven as enforcement continues, we must commit to doing it both compassionately and legally:<ul><li>Due process must be respected, and all migrants must be treated fairly under the law.</li><li>The government must never again use the threat of family separation to coerce compliance.</li><li>No migrant should face deportation threats to third-party prisons.</li><li>Migrants must not be intimidated into signing legal documents they cannot read or understand.</li><li>No one should be deported before their right to a fair hearing is upheld.</li><li>Local and state law enforcement should honor existing laws and prioritize community trust and safety over unjust immigration crackdowns.</li></ul>A Path Forward: Policy That Reflects Our ValuesWe must do more than just seek the compassionate and legal enforcement of our current immigration laws; we must fight for a more just, moral and mutually beneficial immigration policy that can be achieved by:·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Intelligent border security that prevents unauthorized entry, but also provides a mechanism for those who reach our borders seeking asylum to be given fair consideration·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Expanding employment-based visas that reflect our Nation’s needs.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Protecting our commitments and obligations to Dreamers, TPS holders and long-term community members through a pathway to legalization.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Improved language and workforce integration services that work collaboratively with immigrants to assist them in becoming stable and contributing members of society·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A commitment to ensure that immigration policies and pathways to legalization work to keep families together.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Working to ensure that all Americans see the shared prosperity in compassionate immigration policies to reduce the discrimination and intolerance many immigrants face.Reclaiming Our National IdentityThis debate is not only about how immigrants can contribute to our country—it is about who we are as a people. Will we uphold the values that made America the “shining city on a hill,” or abandon them in favor of fear and exclusion?America owes its strength to its immigrant roots. Now, we must rise to the challenge and once again be a beacon of light to the world. As Emma Lazarus wrote in those inspirational lines welcoming immigrants to our land,&nbsp;“Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.”Our nation must do better.&nbsp;Together we can.&nbsp;

Few areas of government better illustrate the repeated failure of our major political parties to reach a compromise than our broken and flawed approach to immigration policy. &nbsp;This ongoing failure stems from a mix of opposing ideologies, political strategy, and entrenched stubbornness.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Immigration Policy &amp; Enforcement

The outsized role of money in American politics is not a campaign “talking point” or side issue—it is the central structural problem distorting our democracy and creating an existential crisis for this nation. When campaigns depend on large donors, when lobbyists fund the politicians they seek to influence, and when elected leaders can personally benefit from the policies they shape, the system stops working for the people and only works for those who can afford access.&nbsp;&nbsp;This is today’s unfortunate reality. Restoring democratic accountability requires confronting this reality directly and reforming the system at every level where money exerts influence.The most effective starting point is reducing candidates’ dependence on wealthy donors. Public financing of elections offers a reasonable and achievable path forward. Programs that match small-dollar contributions—such as “Freedom from Influence Funds” that multiply small donations—shift power away from concentrated wealth and toward ordinary voters. When a $25 contribution is matched several times over, it matters. It changes who candidates listen to, how they campaign, and ultimately who they represent. Public financing does not eliminate private money entirely, but it fundamentally changes the incentives that drive political behavior and decision-making.Transparency is equally critical, but it must be real and immediate. Voters should not have to guess who is funding campaigns or political advocacy. Every donation—to candidates, parties, or outside groups—should be reported quickly and made easily accessible to the public and media. That includes meaningful information about donors, such as where they work and where they live, as well as non-monetary contributions that often escape scrutiny. Transparency does not solve everything, but secrecy guarantees abuse. Sunlight raises the political cost of influence in ways that quiet, hidden systems never will.At the same time, it is impossible to talk about money in politics without addressing lobbying and the revolving door. The current system allows lobbyists to donate to the very officials they are paid to influence, and it allows those officials to leave office and quickly cash in on their government experience. That is not a gray area—it is a built-in conflict of interest. Lobbyists should be barred from donating, bundling, or fundraising for candidates whose decisions they seek to shape. Cooling-off periods for former officials should be at least five years, and in some cases longer. If public service is treated as a stepping stone to a lobbying career, policy decisions will inevitably be shaped by what comes next rather than what is right.Reform also has to close the loopholes that make existing rules ineffective. “Shadow lobbying” allows individuals to advise and influence policy without ever registering as lobbyists, avoiding disclosure and accountability requirements. Expanding the legal definition of lobbying to include these activities is not a technical fix—it is a necessary correction to ensure that influence is not simply rebranded to evade the law. Similarly, corporations should not be allowed to immediately hire former officials who oversaw matters directly affecting their business. Without stronger guardrails, the line between public service and private gain remains too thin to matter.&nbsp;&nbsp;This will continue to erode public trust and lead to decisions made out of self-interest by politicians rather than the public good.Another area where conflicts of interest are too often tolerated is the personal finances of lawmakers themselves. Members of Congress should not be trading individual stocks while in office, nor should their spouses or dependent children. The appearance of insider advantage alone is enough to erode public trust, and the reality of it is even more damaging. Proposals like the TRUST in Congress Act and the NO STOCK Resolution recognize a basic principle: public office should not be an opportunity for personal financial gain. Requiring lawmakers to place their assets in qualified blind trusts would reinforce that principle by ensuring they cannot act on privileged information. In the same vein, members should not be accepting campaign contributions from companies that fall directly under the jurisdiction of the committees they serve on. Oversight loses credibility when it is intertwined with fundraising.Many of these reforms run into the same obstacle: a legal framework that treats unlimited political spending as a protected right and extends that protection to corporations and other entities. If meaningful reform is going to last, it will most likely require a constitutional amendment that clarifies the government’s authority to regulate campaign spending and distinguishes between natural persons and artificial entities in the political process.&nbsp;&nbsp;Let me be clear what I mean:&nbsp;CORPORATIONS ARE NOT PEOPLE AND SHOULD NOT BE AFFORDED THE CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS OF PEOPLE!&nbsp;&nbsp;Corporations should not be afforded the constitutional right of free speech that enables them to spend inordinate amounts of money to buy political influence.&nbsp;&nbsp;This is a high bar, but it reflects the scale of the problem. Without addressing the legal foundation, reform efforts will continue to be chipped away in the courts.&nbsp;&nbsp;This is also why, after the recent ruling on the Voting Rights Act, I am now in support of raising the number of SCOTUS justices from nine to thirteen once we regain control over the legislative and executive branches.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;While this solution comes with risks and concerns, the number of available solutions is rapidly dwindling.Even within the current framework, there is more that can be done to close the channels through which large-scale money flows. PACs and Super PACs have become vehicles for massive spending that operates parallel to campaigns while maintaining the fiction of independence. Strengthening anti-coordination rules and limiting the scope of these committees would reduce the ability of wealthy donors to dominate elections indirectly. If the rules allow for workarounds, those workarounds will be used.Ending “dark money” is one of the most straightforward reforms and one of the most necessary. Voters deserve to know who is trying to influence their votes. Legislation like the DISCLOSE Act would require organizations engaged in political spending to reveal their donors, bringing transparency to a system that currently allows large sums to be spent with no public accountability. There is no defensible reason for political spending to remain secret in a functioning democracy.&nbsp;&nbsp;This will also bring to light foreign influence in the political and electoral system.None of these reforms, on their own, will solve the problem. But taken together, they change the system’s incentives in a meaningful way. Public financing reduces reliance on large donors. Transparency exposes influence. Lobbying reforms limit conflicts of interest. Ethical rules address personal gain. Stronger regulations close loopholes. And disclosure requirements eliminate secrecy. The goal is not to remove money from politics entirely—that is neither realistic nor necessary—but to ensure that money does not override representation.The current system reflects choices that have been made over time. Different choices can produce a different outcome. A political system that is responsive to voters rather than donors is not an abstract ideal—it is a practical objective. Achieving it requires sustained effort and structural reform, but the path forward is clear, though not easy.&nbsp;

The outsized role of money in American politics is not a campaign “talking point” or side issue—it is the central structural problem distorting our democracy and creating an existential crisis for this nation. When campaigns depend on large donors, when lobbyists fund the politicians they seek to influence, and when elected leaders can personally benefit from the policies they shape, the system stops working for the people and only works for those who can afford access.&nbsp;&nbsp;This is today’s unfortunate reality. Restoring democratic accountability requires confronting this reality directly and reforming the system at every level where money exerts influence.

A Comprehensive Strategy to Get Money Out of Politics

firstName

lastName

phoneNumber

zipOrPostalCode

email

A CONVERSATION ON ICE AND PROTECTING OUR IMMIGRANT COMMUNITY&nbsp;

ORGANIZED BY NORTH COUNTRY IMMIGRANT JUSTICE COALITION.

Supporting a Strong Military &amp; National DefenseA glance at the news quickly reminds us of the many dangers and growing threats our Country faces.&nbsp;&nbsp;One of the government’s fundamental responsibilities is to ensure our national security.&nbsp;&nbsp;Therefore, I strongly support adequately funding our military and investing in advanced technologies to ensure the safety and security of our land is never in question.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Strengthen International Partnerships &amp; NATO AllianceOne of the strongest deterrents to enemy aggression is the strength derived from international partnerships and alliances. Unfortunately, the current administration has caused significant harm to our nation by damaging and weakening these relationships. We must work to rebuild trust and collaboration with our allies, so any potential adversary understands that when they oppose the United States, they confront not only the most powerful fighting force in history but also the determination and support of much of the international community standing alongside us. Supporting Our TroopsAmerica must provide unwavering support for our troops. This includes equipping them with the most advanced training and equipment necessary to safely and effectively carry out their missions, and we must honor their commitment to our nation by ensuring fair and competitive compensation.&nbsp;&nbsp;Furthermore, it's essential to support the families of our soldiers by providing access to adequate housing, healthcare, job assistance and childcare. We also need to improve the transition to civilian life by ensuring continued access to healthcare and benefits. Lastly, we must guarantee that all soldiers, both active duty and veterans, have access to mental health services.&nbsp;Adequate Supply Chains for Critical MaterialsWe must take immediate action to reduce our dependence on foreign governments for critical materials, rare earth metals, and semiconductors. Relying on foreign sources for these materials poses a significant threat to our national security, as it could hinder defense manufacturing capabilities.&nbsp;Research &amp; DevelopmentIt is essential that we invest significantly in research and development to ensure our nation possesses the most advanced capabilities and weapon systems. This investment will help deter aggression from potential adversaries and enhance our success in battle. Additionally, we must focus on developing artificial intelligence to predict, analyze, and counter evolving threats. Improving our cybersecurity defenses is also critical to safeguard our networks and infrastructure.&nbsp;Intelligence ServicesWe must continue to ensure our intelligence services remain the strongest in the world, anticipating and countering threats before they occur.&nbsp;Military Independence from PoliticsWhile a hallmark of our nation is having a civilian commander-in-chief, we must ensure that military leadership remains nonpartisan and is not used for political gain, as we have seen too often with the current administration.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Seasoned LeadershipLeadership is essential for success in any endeavor. The current administration has been negligent in protecting our national security by appointing individuals to positions of power and authority who lack the necessary experience, temperament or judgment to lead our agencies and troops effectively. We must once again value knowledge, experience and expertise in leadership, which is not exclusive to any one political party. There are experienced military and national defense leaders in both the Democratic and Republican parties, and we must demand the highest standards from those who are leading our military and defense agencies.&nbsp;Foreign AidThe current administration has done our nation a great disservice by framing foreign aid as a waste of money that would be better spent at home. While there are often humanitarian benefits to the foreign aid the United States provides to other countries, the reality is that by offering aid, we can strengthen our relationships and ensure that struggling nations are more likely to support us rather than our adversaries.&nbsp;&nbsp;Foreign aid, therefore, is not so much a question of humanitarian aid, but rather national security.&nbsp;Work to Establish Treaties &amp; Arms AgreementsWhile investing heavily in our national defense is essential, we must also allocate significant resources to diplomacy. Regardless of our military capabilities, it is vital always to seek ways to de-escalate tensions and reduce the potential for conflict and war. To achieve this, we should continue engaging in dialogue with those who oppose us to diffuse tensions and prevent conflicts.&nbsp;While we must continuously seek partnerships and diplomatic solutions to the conflicts we face, we must ensure our enemies recognize that an attack on the United States, our citizens or allies will bring with it the fury and wrath of God.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This is not meant to suggest that we should invite or seek conflict, but rather that we must maintain the capabilities to defend our Nation and allies from its enemies.

A glance at the news quickly reminds us of the many dangers and growing threats our Country faces.&nbsp;&nbsp;One of the government’s fundamental responsibilities is to ensure our national security.&nbsp;&nbsp;Therefore, I strongly support adequately funding our military and investing in advanced technologies to ensure the safety and security of our land is never in question.&nbsp;

Military & National Defense

May Day is a reminder that all of the rights that workers have today had to be fought for. Fair wages, safe working conditions, and dignity on the job aren’t luxuries; they’re the foundation of a just society and should be non-negotiable.We must stand with workers everywhere, including defending every worker’s right to organize and unionize. It’s time this country prioritizes the working class—not the oligarch class that controls the levers of government and policy and concentrates its wealth on the labor of the rest of us.For too long, power and wealth have been concentrated in the hands of a few, at the expense of the many. That imbalance is eroding our quality of life. Too many people are working multiple jobs just to get by. No one should have to struggle to put food on the table, worry about affording healthcare, or fear financial ruin from illness or pregnancy. No one should be forced to choose between filling their gas tank and paying their bills. And everyone deserves time to rest, spend with loved ones, and actually enjoy life.It’s time to rebalance the system and return power to the people.

May Day is a reminder that all of the rights that workers have today had to be fought for. Fair wages, safe working conditions, and dignity on the job aren’t luxuries; they’re the foundation of a just society and should be non-negotiable.

May Day Statement on Workers' Rights

GLENS FALLS — The cool thing about being a Northeastern New York barbecue-joint owner&nbsp;— like being a politician&nbsp;— is that Stuart Amoriell can do two things he enjoys:Talk about important issues&nbsp;— the difference between Memphis style and Texas style, or healthcare access&nbsp;— and find common ground without getting vicious.

Amoriell finds the mixing bowl in Congressional race of NY-21 politics

STATEMENT FROM STUART AMORIELLCandidate, NY-21 Democratic Congressional PrimaryWhat happened in this race is simple: the Democratic establishment tried to commit fraud against the voters of NY-21, and “they” got caught.A petition challenge was filed to remove me from the June 23rd ballot. A judge declined to sign their motion for lack of cause. The Board of Elections validated our signatures — more than enough to keep us on the ballot. And buried in the attorney's own filings to the State Board of Elections is the Essex County Democratic Party Chair Maggie Bartley — proof that party officials were behind this effort from the start.This is not politics. This is an attempt to steal a primary. It is a betrayal of the democratic process, a betrayal of the voters of this district, and a betrayal of the American value that every citizen deserves a free and fair election — not one decided in a back room by party insiders protecting their handpicked candidate.The people of NY-21 are angry — and they have every right to be. They are angry that the Democratic establishment believes it knows better than the voters. They are angry that party officials would rather rig an outcome than earn one. They are angry about what was done to force other candidates out of this race. That anger is legitimate, it is justified, and it is shared by everyone who believes that democracy means something.The establishment tried to take away the voters' voice. But the law said no.&nbsp;Those responsible owe the people of this district an apology. I will have more to say tomorrow morning.

Democratic Party Officials Committed Fraud to Steal NY-21 Primary

Supporting Our EconomyFor our communities to thrive, we must focus on strengthening and growing our local economies. Improving economic conditions in Northern New York is a complex challenge that will require a complex solution.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ultimately, a strong economy will support our residents, empower local governments, and create opportunities for future generations. To accomplish this, we need to pursue a comprehensive strategy that includes the following priorities:Expanding Affordable Housing Options No economy can thrive and grow without a strong workforce, which depends on access to affordable housing. Therefore, policies focused on increasing affordable housing must be a top priority. For too long, our communities have faced limited affordable inventory, rising costs that outpace wage growth and aging units that don't meet modern standards. Without addressing the affordable housing crisis, other efforts to boost our economies will be less effective. <a href="https://cms.designedtorun.com/8bc71b11-a8f8-4e29-804e-8260c4bb3159/issues/issue-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">To learn more about our approach to solving this issue, please see our Affordable Housing position paper.</a>Aligning Education and Training with Local Workforce Needs Northern New York’s universities, community colleges and trade schools are invaluable assets to our communities and must be leveraged to grow our local economies. Strengthening the relationships between these institutions and local employers can help ensure that educational programs and learning tracks align with local needs. Additionally, expanding apprenticeships and internships can help residents remain within our communities. We must also work to support and increase financial resources available to residents who wish to participate in education and job training programs.Building Vibrant Communities That Attract and Retain Young Workers To attract and retain new residents and families, we must continue developing vibrant communities that incorporate parks, recreational facilities, reliable healthcare, and diverse arts, cultural, and entertainment options, alongside thriving businesses and community amenities.&nbsp;&nbsp;We must ensure that Northern New York communities remain highly sought-after homes for workforce residents.Ensuring Childcare &amp; Eldercare Solutions A significant issue facing residents in the workforce is the lack of childcare and eldercare solutions in our communities. Many residents struggle to find care for young children and aging seniors, which often forces them to move elsewhere in order to balance their jobs with caregiving responsibilities. Additionally, the insufficient availability of childcare and eldercare solutions makes it difficult to attract young families to our communities. To effectively develop and strengthen our workforce, it is crucial that we provide access to the necessary care for family members and loved ones within our communities.&nbsp;Rebuilding Trust &amp; Partnership with Canada Our neighbors in Canada have always played a crucial role in the economy of Northern New York. Unfortunately, the policies of the current administration have damaged this long-standing friendship and have significantly hurt our local businesses and communities. It is essential for us to rebuild trust with our Northern neighbors and restore the partnership that has mutually benefited both sides for so long.Supporting Farms &amp; Agriculture Northern New York is the second-largest agricultural region in the state, generating approximately $1.8 billion in combined farm product and indirect sales revenue and employing nearly 10,000 residents. Our agricultural products not only nourish our local communities but are also sold outside of Northern New York, bringing additional revenue to our area. Moreover, agricultural enterprises benefit not only farmers but also a variety of other businesses and industries that are vital to our local economies, including agricultural product retailers, equipment suppliers, veterinarians, farm supply stores and agritourism ventures.Supporting Tourism &amp; Recreation Many communities in Northern New York, including my hometown of Lake Placid, rely on tourism to support their economies. While it's important to develop diverse economic opportunities in our areas, we must continue to support tourism and recreation in Northern New York. By doing so, our communities can generate significant revenue from outside the region, which can be used to promote community and economic growth.Supporting Minority &amp; Women-Owned BusinessesWe must ensure that everyone has the opportunity to translate their talent and ideas into entrepreneurship. We must ensure equal opportunities for historically marginalized groups, including minorities and women, so they can turn their business dreams into reality through access to funding and support.Supporting Intelligent Immigration PolicyImmigration policy is not merely about moral imperatives but is also about strengthening our economy. We must ensure we have an immigration policy that provides for a reliable and sustainable workforce by supporting visas and immigration policies that promote immigration to our communities that reflect industry needs.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://cms.designedtorun.com/8bc71b11-a8f8-4e29-804e-8260c4bb3159/issues/compassionate-immigration-enforcement" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">You can learn more about our immigration policy here.</a>Leveraging State &amp; Federal Funding and Assisting with Grant WritingWe must continue to enhance the way we allocate federal and state funding to support economic growth initiatives. That said, there are already numerous grant and loan opportunities available through New York state and federal agencies, such as the SBA, USDA, EDA, HUD, and DOT. However, many potential recipients struggle with the application process. To address this, we need to provide municipalities and prospective applicants with resources to educate them about available programs and guide them through the application process successfully.&nbsp;Supporting Regional CollaborationWe should encourage our municipalities to combine resources in order to market Northern New York more effectively. By working together, they can take advantage of collective bargaining power and economies of scale whenever possible. Collaboration allows municipalities to learn from each other’s successes and challenges, leading to a more efficient use of funds.&nbsp;Supporting Chambers of Commerce, Creating Business &amp; Technology Hubs and Building Business Support NetworksOur government should continue to collaborate with Chambers of Commerce to deliver funding, training, and educational opportunities that are designed to meet the needs of local communities, utilizing agencies such as the SBA and EDA. Furthermore, we should focus on incentivizing and supporting shared business and technology hubs, incubators, and facilities that provide space for community members to work remotely, develop business ideas and collaborate.Investing in the Three “Quiet Multipliers”: Broadband, Energy and Infrastructure Reliable broadband, modern energy systems and upgraded infrastructure not only create real jobs in our communities, but investing in these areas also provides additional economic benefits. Expanding rural broadband enables remote work, allows businesses to operate effectively, facilitates online education and improves the affordable housing market. Investing in clean and modern energy generates new jobs, lowers utility costs for our communities and enhances grid reliability. Furthermore, investing in roads, bridges, water systems and public transportation establishes the infrastructure necessary to support business and housing growth.Incentivize Growth in Tradable&nbsp;Industries &amp; Sectors Northern New York should prioritize diversifying its economy by attracting industries that produce goods and services for regional, national, and global markets. Many communities can benefit from transitioning away from single or limited-economy markets. Investing in a variety of tradable industries and sectors can help stabilize local revenue and create lasting jobs for residents. To support these efforts, tax incentives, partnerships with educational institutions and the establishment of development zones can all play a vital role.Improving Access to TransportationWe should prioritize expanding access to public transit to give residents more housing options and increase their opportunities for employment and education. Reliable public transportation also enhances job mobility, allowing residents to advance their careers and earn higher wages.Focusing on Trade Jobs Our economy cannot grow without skilled trade labor. We must continue to support apprenticeships and programs like those offered at BOCES, ensuring we train community youth with the necessary skills for valuable and rewarding trade careers.Intelligent Tax PolicyWe must establish a smart tax policy that minimizes administrative burdens for small businesses, encourages employment growth, reduces payroll tax burdens, lowers the cost of capital investments and offers tax incentives for research and development.Expanding Access to Capital for Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs We must continue to support state and federal grants, community investment funds and private investments that enhance small business growth and entrepreneurship.Restructuring Zoning and Municipal Regulations Streamlining permitting processes and aligning zoning regulations that encourage development and investment while preserving the character of our towns and conservation efforts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For our communities to thrive, we must focus on strengthening and growing our local economies. Improving economic conditions in Northern New York is a complex challenge that will require a complex solution.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ultimately, a strong economy will support our residents, empower local governments, and create opportunities for future generations.

Growing Our Economy

LAKE PLACID — From a podium on the bed of a pickup truck at John Brown Farm, Stuart Amoriell announced his candidacy for New York’s 21st Congressional District to a crowd of supporters on Wednesday.

Lake Placid restaurant owner announces candidacy for NY-21

Healthcare Access &amp; Affordability&nbsp;Improving healthcare access and affordability in Northern New York is both an economic necessity and a moral imperative. Our healthcare system is increasingly strained and often unable to meet residents' needs. Although this crisis affects all Northern New York residents, it disproportionately impacts low-income families, senior citizens, veterans, and individuals living in remote areas. Furthermore, Northern New York faces a significant shortage of mental health and addiction treatment providers, leaving many residents without essential care.&nbsp;A primary challenge facing the healthcare system in Northern New York is the severe shortage of specialists, primary care physicians, nurses, dentists, and mental health providers. Contributing factors include rural isolation, reduced opportunities for the families of medical professionals and population decline, which limits the economic viability of medical practices. Healthcare institutions also face rising expenses, financial strain and difficulties recruiting providers.&nbsp;&nbsp;As a result, residents face higher healthcare costs, extended travel times to reach care, difficulty finding specialists and providers who accept new patients and challenges in scheduling timely appointments.&nbsp;Strategies to Improve Access and Affordability&nbsp;1. Strengthen &amp; Grow the Healthcare Workforce<ul><li>Provide tax credits for providers who practice in designated shortage areas within Northern New York.</li><li>Support residency programs tied to community hospitals.</li><li>Support programs such as Career Pathway Training (CPT) that cover students' educational expenses for healthcare careers.</li><li>Partner with institutions such as the SUNY system and BOCES programs to ensure access to nursing, medical assistant, EMT and behavioral health training tracks.</li><li>Increase loan forgiveness and tuition-assistance programs for healthcare providers who commit to serving in our communities.</li><li>Incentivize healthcare institutions to provide employer-assisted housing for nurses and medical professionals through either subsidized housing or by supporting the construction of employer-owned housing facilities.</li><li>Strengthen our communities by:<ul><li>Building parks, recreation, and community amenities that attract new and younger residents and are comparable to those in other growing communities.</li><li>Improving access to broadband and cellular services.</li><li>Providing quality childcare options that support working parents and families.</li></ul></li></ul>2. Strengthening Northern New York Hospitals &amp; Networks<ul><li>Expand hospital stabilization grants, such as the RHSP &amp; SHIP federal grants, to provide funding for rural hospitals.</li><li>Ensure fair Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement.</li><li>Support capital funding projects to improve facilities, equipment and technology through grants and tax incentives.</li><li>Encourage hospitals to drive efficiencies of scale by sharing specialty providers across counties and facilities, consolidating administrative services and enrolling in group purchasing organizations to reduce equipment, supply, and pharmaceutical costs.</li></ul>3. Expanding Access Through Non-Traditional Means&nbsp;<ul><li>Increase access to mobile health services that provide preventive screenings, vaccinations, and routine check-ups.</li><li>Promote telehealth as a viable alternative to in-person visits when appropriate by expanding broadband access, ensuring reimbursement parity and training community residents in telehealth services.</li></ul>4. Making Healthcare More Affordable<ul><li>Reduce costs by increasing state subsidies for ACA marketplace plans, cap prescription drug costs for essential medications and expand Medicaid eligibility for working-poor households.</li><li>We must ensure that dubious HHS decisions on vaccines and care recommendations do not alter insurance coverage for these critical programs.&nbsp;</li><li>Support local health departments in offering free screenings, vaccinations, and maternal health services.</li><li>Expand sliding-scale clinics for uninsured and underinsured residents.</li></ul>&nbsp;ConclusionAccess to reliable healthcare is both a moral and economic imperative for the growth and sustainability of Northern New York communities. Although government alone cannot resolve every challenge, they can provide the support necessary for communities to build reliable healthcare systems. Together we can!&nbsp;&nbsp;

Improving healthcare access and affordability in Northern New York is both an economic necessity and a moral imperative. Our healthcare system is increasingly strained and often unable to meet residents' needs. Although this crisis affects all Northern New York residents, it disproportionately impacts low-income families, senior citizens, veterans, and individuals living in remote areas.

Write a short blurb about an issue your campaign is highlighting. Try to keep the text a similar size between the various issue blurbs.

Healthcare Access &amp; Affordability

Supporting universal childcare is fundamentally a workers’ rights issue. When access to affordable, reliable childcare is limited, workers—especially parents—are forced to make impossible choices between earning a living and caring for their children. In rural northern New York, these challenges are even more acute: long distances between towns, a shortage of licensed childcare providers, and limited public transportation make consistent care difficult to secure. This constraint weakens workers’ bargaining power in the labor market, often pushing them into lower-paying, less stable jobs with fewer benefits. Universal childcare helps correct this imbalance by giving workers the freedom to participate fully in the workforce without sacrificing their family responsibilities.The burden of inadequate childcare systems falls disproportionately on women, reinforcing long-standing gender inequalities in employment. In regions like ours, where childcare options may be scarce or nonexistent, many women face even greater pressure to reduce their hours, turn down promotions, or leave the workforce entirely due to caregiving demands. By ensuring childcare is universally accessible—including in underserved rural areas—communities can promote equal opportunity in the workplace, enabling women and other primary caregivers to pursue careers on equal footing. This not only benefits individuals but also strengthens the broader economy by retaining skilled workers and increasing overall productivity.Universal childcare also supports workers by improving job stability and reducing stress. For parents in rural communities, the unpredictability of piecing together informal or distant childcare arrangements can make maintaining steady employment especially difficult. When parents know their children are in safe, nurturing environments nearby, they are better able to focus on their work and maintain consistent employment. Employers benefit from reduced absenteeism and higher retention, while workers gain a more secure and predictable livelihood. In this sense, childcare becomes part of the essential infrastructure that underpins a healthy labor market—just as important as transportation or healthcare, particularly in geographically isolated regions like the North Country.Ultimately, supporting universal childcare is about recognizing that workers are not just employees, but people with families and responsibilities. A fair labor system must account for this reality. In northern New York, that means addressing unique barriers like provider shortages, transportation challenges, and lower population density that can limit service availability. By investing in childcare as a public good, governments can help create a more equitable workforce where all individuals—regardless of where they live—have the opportunity to work, earn, and thrive without being penalized for raising families.

Supporting universal childcare is fundamentally a workers’ rights issue. When access to affordable, reliable childcare is limited, workers—especially parents—are forced to make impossible choices between earning a living and caring for their children. In rural northern New York, these challenges are even more acute: long distances between towns, a shortage of licensed childcare providers, and limited public transportation make consistent care difficult to secure. This constraint weakens workers’ bargaining power in the labor market, often pushing them into lower-paying, less stable jobs with fewer benefits. Universal childcare helps correct this imbalance by giving workers the freedom to participate fully in the workforce without sacrificing their family responsibilities.

Universal Childcare

After I shared my disappointment about the loss of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, I was asked by several neighbors why tax dollars should support public broadcasting at all. The most common argument I heard was that if the content were truly valuable, the market would sustain it on its own.This is a familiar critique—and one worth addressing.I believe there are fundamental public interests that should not be left solely to market demand. Healthcare is a clear example. If access to healthcare were determined only by profitability, rural regions like the North Country would have even fewer options than they already do. Without public support, grants and incentives, clinics, hospitals, and providers would abandon sparsely populated areas because they aren’t profitable—an outcome that would be devastating for those communities.Public broadcasting serves a similar public purpose.From a news perspective, public broadcasting provides local coverage in rural areas—across the country and here in Northern New York—that commercial outlets often cannot or will not fully serve. Beyond news, arts, educational, and cultural programming are essential to a healthy society, even if they are not the most profitable forms of content. Reality TV, sitcoms, and crime dramas may generate higher returns, but that doesn’t diminish the value of educational and cultural programming being widely accessible. If decisions are driven purely by the market, this kind of content simply wouldn’t exist at scale.Another core strength of public broadcasting is its ability to reflect diverse voices rather than prioritizing those most attractive to advertisers or a narrow audience segment. Commercial media, by its nature, is shaped by ratings, advertising revenue, and sponsor influence. Relying solely on private funding increases the risk of commercial pressure, political influence, and homogenized content. Stable public funding, by contrast, helps protect editorial independence, universal access, and long-term investment in programming that supports informed citizenship and social cohesion.None of us will agree with—or enjoy—every program public broadcasting airs. But that is precisely the point. In a democracy, diversity of perspectives isn’t a byproduct; it’s a necessity. Providing a platform where a wide range of ideas and voices can be heard is not a luxury—it’s integral to a healthy American democracy.&nbsp;

After I shared my disappointment about the loss of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, I was asked by several neighbors why tax dollars should support public broadcasting at all. The most common argument I heard was that if the content were truly valuable, the market would sustain it on its own.This is a familiar critique—and one worth addressing.I believe there are fundamental public interests that should not be left solely to market demand. Healthcare is a clear example. If access to healthcare were determined only by profitability, rural regions like the North Country would have even fewer options than they already do. Without public support, grants and incentives, clinics, hospitals, and providers would abandon sparsely populated areas because they aren’t profitable—an outcome that would be devastating for those communities.

Public Broadcasting

It is time for the ultra-wealthy and large corporations to contribute more to this country. This is not only a matter of fairness—it is an economic and moral imperative.The United States now carries nearly $40 trillion in national debt—roughly $115,000 per citizen. Nearly 20% of the federal budget is consumed by interest payments alone—over $600 billion annually that could be used instead to strengthen the quality of life for working Americans and ensure our seniors do not have to worry about constant threats to Medicare and Social Security. This trajectory is clearly unsustainable. Passing this burden to future generations is not just irresponsible—it is simply unethical.Proposals to reduce Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and other essential safety net programs are fundamentally misguided. Asking working families and vulnerable populations to shoulder the cost of fiscal repair, while shielding those who have benefited the most, is neither just nor economically sound.The reality is clear: wealth in America is highly concentrated. The top 10% of households hold approximately 70% of the nation’s wealth, while the bottom 50% hold just 2.5%. The top 1% alone controls more than 30%. Over the past two decades, more than 80% of tax cuts have disproportionately benefited the wealthiest Americans.&nbsp;&nbsp;The pot has begun to boil, and it’s time for the frog to jump out or perish.&nbsp;This concentration of wealth did not occur in a vacuum. It developed alongside our rising national debt, public investment, tax cuts, and economic policies that enabled extraordinary wealth accumulation by a very few. In other words, those who have benefited the most from this system must play a leading role in restoring our fiscal balance.To that end, one of my first pieces of legislation in Congress that I introduce will be the&nbsp;National Debt Responsibility Act, which includes the following key provisions:<ul><li>A progressive increase in the marginal income tax rates for wealthy Americans, up to 40% for top wealth earners, including on large intergenerational wealth transfers</li><li>A progressive wealth tax&nbsp;starting at 5% on net worth above $50 million, rising to 10% for the wealthiest individuals</li><li>Estate tax reform, lowering the exemption to $2.5 million, with rates beginning at 15% and rising to 40%</li><li>A financial transaction tax&nbsp;to ensure Wall Street contributes fairly:<ul><li>0.5% on stock trades</li><li>0.1% on bond trades</li><li>0.005% on derivatives</li></ul></li><li>Closing major tax avoidance loopholes, including:<ul><li>Eliminating strategies used to bypass estate and inheritance taxes</li><li>Ending the “step-up in basis” for inherited assets</li><li>Addressing “buy, borrow, die” strategies by treating borrowing against appreciated assets as a taxable event</li><li>Preventing the misclassification of self-employment income to avoid payroll taxes (FICA/SECA) that stress the fiscal viability of safety net programs</li></ul></li><li>Corporate tax reform, restoring the statutory rate to 35% and ensuring the effective rate reflects it by closing loopholes</li><li>Strengthening global minimum tax rules (GILTI)&nbsp;to prevent profit shifting and offshore tax avoidance by multinational corporations.</li></ul>This is about responsibility, sustainability, and fairness. Working Americans should not be asked to sacrifice their security while the wealthiest continue to benefit from a system that no longer asks enough of them.If we are serious about addressing our national debt and strengthening our economy, then we must be equally serious about who bears that responsibility.&nbsp;

It is time for the ultra-wealthy and large corporations to contribute more to this country. This is not only a matter of fairness—it is an economic and moral imperative.

A Tax Policy Focussed on the Wealthy Paying their Fair Share

While we continue the fight for the dignity of all people, we must also work to protect the most vulnerable within our communities. We must confront the hunger and food insecurity that exists not only in distant parts of America, but right here at home in our own communities. These problems cannot and should not be solved by the government alone, but with the government’s help, communities, businesses, non-profits, and neighbors can work together and declare that we will no longer allow our children to go to bed with the pain of hunger. And let me be clear, we find it unacceptable for any child in our country to go hungry, regardless of their national origin or status—this is what greatness demands of us.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Despite what some of our friends on the right might claim, I reject the premise that Democrats don’t believe in self-reliance and personal responsibility. Of course, we believe that everyone needs to do their fair share.&nbsp;&nbsp;This isn’t just a belief—it's how we live our lives. It shows in neighbors who contribute their food and time to local food pantries, the teacher that stays after school and gives her own time to help a struggling student, in our local businesses that give back to community organizations, in those advocating for conservation because they believe it’s our duty to protect the environment, in people standing on street corners participating in the American political dialogue through protest and in all those who dedicate themselves to the many causes and nonprofits working to make this a more perfect nation.&nbsp;&nbsp;Yes, we believe in self-reliance and personal responsibility. But there is a fundamental difference. While we hold these values dear, we also refuse to let families go hungry when they fall short of achieving them. We refuse to use food as ransom or deny SNAP benefits to families for not meeting arbitrary quotas. While some may fall short of doing their fair share, we will always lend a hand to those struggling, to those most vulnerable.&nbsp;&nbsp;This is what greatness demands.

While we continue the fight for the dignity of all people, we must also work to protect the most vulnerable within our communities. We must confront the hunger and food insecurity that exists not only in distant parts of America, but right here at home in our own communities.

Ending Food Insecurity

Civility, Conversation &amp; Compassion in Politics&nbsp;I recently had the opportunity to attend the annual forum of the Common Ground Alliance of the Adirondacks. I joined, unsure what to expect, other than it was a gathering of stakeholders interested in discussing what works and what doesn’t in our communities. &nbsp;As the day’s events got underway, I learned that the forum's theme was “Conversations that Strengthen Our Community.” Considering the current environment, I believe Common Ground Alliance did well to select this theme, as many of us believe that there has been a dangerous increase in polarization and a growing tendency to demonize groups with opposing viewpoints. &nbsp;&nbsp;When we view those we disagree with as the enemy and assign labels like fascist, socialist, racist, intellectually inferior, lazy or un-American, then we eliminate any possibility of constructive dialogue regarding the problems facing our communities—and the problems are many. &nbsp;Regardless of the issue, how could any of us engage with someone that we already view as incapable or unworthy of having a valid opinion? &nbsp;All of us, regardless of political ideology, must recognize that political discourse and disagreement are not only inherent to our democracy but desirable. &nbsp;No one political group or ideology owns the manual for solving the complex problems facing our Country. If this American experiment is to succeed, it will require everyone to engage in political discourse, and we are all responsible for ensuring that room for those conversations exists by not marginalizing or demonizing those we disagree with. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To have conversations that strengthen our communities, it is helpful to understand why dialogue is integral to a functioning democracy. &nbsp;One of the most obvious, yet often most difficult to accept, is the simple truth that on any given issue, we could be wrong—and even if not wrong, our positions may be less synthesized or developed than they could be if we considered alternative arguments. &nbsp;Accepting this reality is not always easy and ultimately requires humility. &nbsp;Conversation and dialogue can strengthen our original position or lead to a more nuanced, synthesized viewpoint through a deeper understanding of the issue and examination of counterarguments. &nbsp;This is how solutions to complex problems are ultimately achieved and why conversation is so important for a functioning democracy. Intuitively, of course, most of us already recognize this. &nbsp;While we may be loath to consider the positions of our political opponents, in more mundane daily experiences, most of us recognize that conversations with our spouse, children, parents, family members, co-workers, community neighbors and friends often impact our decisions and viewpoints. &nbsp;Political dialogue is similarly important in developing considered positions and solutions to the many problems facing our communities and our Country.&nbsp;There is another fundamental reason conversations are important beyond the aim of a more thoughtful, considered position. &nbsp;The idea of denying a voice to those we disagree with is inherently counter to the ideals of our democracy. &nbsp;America is a pluralist republic that recognizes the inevitability of diversity in opinions and interests that are represented by a multitude of groups and organizations. &nbsp;In short, our democracy was founded on the idea that everyone should have a voice through the ballot, their elected representatives, and the interest groups they support, and while those in the majority will always be able to exert greater influence on outcomes, when governing we are nevertheless called upon to ensure all Americans are included in the conversation and never excluded from participation.&nbsp;&nbsp;Beyond the democratic ideal of inclusiveness, there are practical considerations that support the virtues of conversation and compromise as well. &nbsp;If we were to believe that the majority has a mandate to disregard the minority, then there would be neither stability nor continuity in governance. &nbsp;Each time one group assumed the majority, they would simply reverse prior decisions. &nbsp;There are recent examples of majority overreach, and we have seen the calamitous results this has created in markets and international relationships. &nbsp;In the end, considering alternative opinions and seeking to find common ground and compromise is virtuous for both practical and democratic reasons.&nbsp;Even if we accept the premise that conversations are important, it is still not easy to engage with those we disagree with. The current political environment makes this reality pretty clear. &nbsp;That said, it may be easier to do so if we recognize that there is more that unites us than divides us. &nbsp;It is often too easy to accept a narrative that posits that any given issue has only two opposing answers and that each of these is owned by either the liberals or the conservatives: republicans hate immigrants and democrats want them to pour in through open borders; republicans want to strip away all safety nets for our poor and aging and democrats have no value for self-reliance; republicans are for national security and democrats are against the military. &nbsp;If we accept this zero-sum construct, it is easy to understand why we see those with opposing views as the enemy. &nbsp;This false narrative benefits our political parties, but not our democracy. &nbsp;While there are exceptions to every rule and extremes in any group, there is often significantly more agreement among those with opposing ideologies than we acknowledge and the opinions of most Americans do not exist on one end of a polarized spectrum, but contain significantly more nuance and overlap. &nbsp;This is not to say that there are not significant policy disagreements between conservatives and liberals and even if we recognize some commonalities, overcoming the substantive differences is still a difficult task. &nbsp;&nbsp;In the end, having conversations with those we disagree with is as difficult as it is important for our democracy. &nbsp;If we are to be successful in this endeavor, we must fight the temptation to demonize those with opposing viewpoints and demonstrate compassion towards all Americans who seek to make this a more perfect Union by engaging in the political discourse. &nbsp;From this compassionate position, we can recognize that many of us share the same struggles, aspirations, hopes, and fears, and will be better equipped to include everyone in the conversation. &nbsp;In the end, our own positions and our democracy will be stronger for it. &nbsp;Together we can!&nbsp;

No one political group or ideology owns the manual for solving the complex problems facing our Country. If this American experiment is to succeed, it will require everyone to engage in political discourse, and we are all responsible for ensuring that room for those conversations exists by not marginalizing or demonizing those we disagree with.