Winner'08 News
Elmira, N.Y., September 17--State Senator George Winner
(R-C-I, Elmira), who’s seeking re-election in New York’s 53rd Senate District,
said today that his opponent continues his campaign for state office by
employing the kind of attack politics that have turned people off to New
York government.
Winner said that his opponent's actions today don’t match his campaign rhetoric.
"He spends a lot of time talking about reform and a new kind of politics,
but his actions so far in this campaign -- and in his tenure as mayor of
Elmira -- have been a far cry from his words. In fact, he’s resisted change
in the city of Elmira that could have resulted in a more cooperative city-county
partnership to produce meaningful benefits to city residents and property
taxpayers."
Winner said that he believes voters are looking to judge candidates on a
record of achievement.
"We all can spend time talking about what’s wrong, but this election
needs to be about what’s right for the 53rd District. People care more about
what you’ve done than what you’re talking about.
"Since taking office in the Senate four years ago, I’ve reached out
to legislative colleagues in a bipartisan fashion to secure the enactment
of numerous new laws in the areas of economic development, criminal justice,
and rural affairs. It’s a solid record of bipartisan achievement, one that
I’m proud to stand on.
"My partnerships with many mayors, town supervisors, county executives,
business leaders, and concerned citizens throughout the region have advanced
worthwhile community initiatives. I look forward to the opportunity to strengthen
these valuable partnerships and continue this important work.
"As for my opponent’s allegations of impropriety, the very fact of
my longtime service stands as testament to the people’s confidence in my
ability to represent their best interests.
"My broad range of support from representatives of working men and
women, small businesses, industries, farmers, law enforcement officers,
and so many others is a direct result of my overriding commitment to the
needs of this district."
Winner was elected to represent the 53rd Senate District in 2004 and re-elected
two years ago. The district is comprised of Chemung, Schuyler, Steuben,
and Yates counties, and a portion of Tompkins County (the city and town
of Ithaca, and the towns of Enfield, Newfield, and Ulysses).
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