To the editor:

As chair of the Harrietstown Republican Committee, it is with great pleasure that I encourage my fellow Republicans to support the candidacy of Cliff Donaldson for legislative District 7. Our local Republicans have always believed in supporting the best-qualified candidate. This was always done after much serious research as to their qualifications and past performance. We are proud of this approach as it has served our local area well. Cliff brings to this campaign a wealth of experience that will well serve. He has previously served our area on the county legislature, deputy mayor of village of Saranac Lake, New York State Department of Labor and Corrections, and has served as budget officer and county administrator for Essex County. Through Cliff’s efforts the local Department of Motor Vehicles is now in our town hall.

The current District 7 representative was hand-picked by the rest of the Franklin County legislature when Barb Rice resigned. This choice was made WITHOUT consultation with the current town supervisor or other local representatives. One wonders why this was done. I think “Hell of a way to run a railroad” applies here.

For years our party has demonstrated that, after elections, we would support and help the people’s choice. This is how the system should work best for us all. Cliff has been and is still a member of the Democratic Party. He will appear on an independent line. We did and still believe that we and Cliff can work together for everyone in this legislative district. However, the local Democratic Party has been overtaken by the “Voters for Change” with little resemblance to the old Democratic Party. Change, anyone? True to their professed slogan, they should support Cliff as a true example of “change.” Time will tell. Stay turned.

Joe Spadaro, chair

Harrietstown Republican Committee

Saranac Lake