×

Candidates speak at ‘Progressive Summer Camp’

From top left, Patrick Nelson, Emily Martz and Tedra Cobb address attendees at a “Progressive Summer Camp” Saturday at the home of Alan Brown and Susan Moody in Saranac Lake. Nelson and Cobb have announced they are running for Congress as Democrats, and Martz is doing candidate activities while she explores the possibility of running. (Photo provided — Jim Abendroth, Adirondack Voters for Change)

SARANAC LAKE — About 40 people heard from Democratic congressional candidates and other speakers Saturday at a “Progressive Summer Camp” event sponsored by Adirondack Voters for Change, a political action group based in Saranac Lake.

Due to flooding at the Meacham Lake campground where the event was originally scheduled, the program was held at the home of Alan Brown and Susan Moody.

A highlight of the morning session was presentations from three new politicians gearing up to run in 2018 for the House seat of incumbent U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-Willsboro. Tedra Cobb, Emily Martz and Patrick Nelson each gave short presentations about themselves, their beliefs and why they were running, and then participated in a question-and-answer session with the audience.

Cobb, of Hermon in St. Lawrence County, made her candidacy official last week on July 4. Nelson, of Stillwater in Saratoga County, did so in February. Martz, of Saranac Lake, is exploring the possibility of running. Katie Wilson of Keene has also announced she is running. Other potential Democratic candidates include Martha Devaney of Wilton and Don Boyajian of Saratoga Lake.

Warren County Democratic Chairwoman Lynne Boecher told the Post-Star of Glens Falls that as many as nine candidates could seek the Democratic nomination to challenge Stefanik.

The morning session of the “Progressive Summer Camp” also included a talk by author Jim Britel on the “North Country and the Foundations of American Progressivism” as well as activities updates from local North Country progressive groups. The afternoon session included a panel discussion on economic growth and activity, and potential environmental impacts on the Adirondack Park and the North Country featuring Lorraine Duval and Jack Drury, as well as a discussion led by Phil Newton as to “Why We Got Skunked” in the 2016 elections.

NEWSLETTER

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *

Starting at $4.75/week.

Subscribe Today