We all know so much is at stake in the upcoming national and local elections. However, I’m surprised that a lesser-known fact is that those of us living in Marbletown, Rosendale, Rochester, Shawangunk, as well as parts of Wawarsing and Gardiner have had our U.S. House of Representative district changed through redistricting efforts. We will no longer be a part of the U.S. House District NY-18 (currently represented by Democrat Pat Ryan who is running for re-election). Our new district is NY-19 which is currently represented by Republican Marc Molinaro and faces a challenge from Democrat candidate Josh Riley. As we think about who we want representing us in Washington, D.C., I’ve reviewed the data: Republican Marc Molinaro has voted against abortion rights 13 times, including advocating for punishing medical providers who provide critical care with jail time. Molinaro also voted against bringing clean energy jobs back home locally. By contrast, Josh Riley will defend women’s reproductive rights and ensure medical decisions are between a woman and her doctor. Riley has plans to protect our environment against climate change while investing in job creation locally. Additionally, he plans to cut taxes on the middle class while lowering the costs of everyday goods our families depend on. This November 5, it’s time to get to the polls and make sure all of our voices are heard. There’s too much at stake so I encourage us all to do our research and decide the type of future we want to build for the generations that come after us. I’m voting for Josh Riley for U.S. House of Representatives because I know he’ll do the work to create a better future for us all. If you’re not sure where to start, you can find more info at marbletowndemocraticcommittee.org.

Lindsey Grossman

Marbletown