By Kevin E. Foley
U.S. Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney has picked up two endorsements for his re-election bid. At its Feb. 9 meeting, the executive committee of the Orange County Democratic Committee voted to endorse him. In a statement, chairman Brett Broge said: “Whether it’s fights on behalf of our workers, our environment, our veterans, or our share of taxpayer funds for local Orange County communities, the Congressman has worked tirelessly on these issues, while at the same time representing the values and ideals of members of our Democratic Committee.”
Maloney also was endorsed by the small Independence Party, a group seeking a moderate-center position in the political firmament. In 2014 Maloney and Nan Hayworth fought a primary over this ballot line, with Hayworth a narrow winner. She received about 3,400 votes on the line in November. As Maloney only won the election by just over 4,000 votes, this line could provide a cushion, all things being equal. A well-organized Republican could challenge him for the line but that would be a diversion of resources in a multi-candidate race for the Republican nomination.
Former New York Gov. George Pataki, having withdrawn his candidacy from the Republican presidential race, is campaigning for U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio. Pataki continues to be critical of Donald Trump, having said among other things, “He is unfit to have his finger on the nuclear trigger.” However, according to Politico.com, when pressed, Pataki said he would vote for Trump over Hillary Clinton, whom he said was unqualified to be president.
