Every election matters to CSEA members because decisions made by elected officials directly affect our jobs, our rights and the services we provide.
That is why CSEA has a member-driven endorsement process focused not on political party but on candidates who will best represent our interests.
As we head toward the Nov. 3 general election, those endorsements give CSEA members an opportunity to use our collective voice to elect leaders who will stand with us on the issues that matter.
We have already seen why that matters. The massive federal budget cuts enacted through the so-called “Big Beautiful Bill” threaten vital programs while putting enormous financial pressure on New York state and local governments. Those consequences affect CSEA members, the services we provide and the communities we serve.
That is especially true in this year’s congressional elections. CSEA will work to re-elect U.S. Reps. Tom Suozzi, Pat Ryan, Josh Riley and John Mannion, among others. CSEA has also endorsed two new voices from outside the traditional political establishment. Cait Conley is a decorated Army combat veteran running against U.S. Rep. Mike Lawler in the 17th congressional district. Blake Gendebien is a dairy farmer running in the 21st congressional district against a wealthy CEO, Anthony Constantino.
These races could help determine control of the U.S. House of Representatives, where just a handful of seats could decide the majority.
Endorsements are only the beginning. Over the next two months, CSEA members will have opportunities to volunteer, talk with fellow members and help elect our endorsed candidates. With control of Congress at stake, our participation this fall matters.
Endorsements
Conley for NY-17
Cait Conley is a West Point graduate and decorated 16-year Army combat veteran. She supports the PRO Act, which strengthens workers’ rights to organize and join unions.
Gendebien for NY-21
Blake Gendebien is a North Country dairy farmer and small business owner focused on lowering costs for families while protecting Social Security and Medicare.