To the editor:

I am new to NY-21 but have spent considerable time learning about Elise Stefanik. What I have learned thus far is not encouraging. She’s even worse than my previous representatives, Brandon Williams and Claudia Tenney!

It is deeply troubling that Rep. Stefanik opposed critical assistance to Ukraine. With Russia’s continued attacks and the escalating humanitarian crisis, now more than ever the United States must aid our allies and friends.

After Putin invaded Ukraine Rep. Stefanik wrote “We must stand with democracies under assault.” Yet, as the No. 3 House Republican, she broke from GOP leadership to join the radical far-right obstructionists to vote against the aid.

One cannot help but question the motive behind Representative Stefanik’s vote. Given that she’s contending to be Trump’s 2024 running mate, is it purely political? Does her vote serve the interests of her constituents? Her decision undermines the bipartisan support for Ukraine. Her refusal to vote with the majority of Congress is a dangerous message to our allies and adversaries. What does it tells us about her character?

Rep. Stefanik owes us, her constituents, an explanation for why she chose to vote against aid to Ukraine. If she has an alternative strategy, what is it? We deserve to know!

I urge NY-21 to look closely at Paula Collins, the Democratic candidate for NY-21. I believe Paula has the character necessary to represent Rome and the North Country. After all, character matters!

Regina Kekis

Rome