Assemblyman Colin J. Schmitt (R,C,I,LBT,SAM-New Windsor) joined by family, friends, constituents, and community leaders Tuesday announced his campaign for the Hudson Valley’s 18th Congressional District 2022 General Election.
Schmitt who is currently serving his second term in the New York State Assembly serves as a Sergeant in the Army National Guard and is a lifelong Hudson Valley resident formally launched his campaign to challenge Congressman Sean Patrick Maloney on the front lawn of Montgomery Village Hall with the “Little Red School House” Montgomery Nursing School in the background, the school Schmitt attended as a young child growing up in Montgomery.
New York’s 18th Congressional District currently comprises all of Orange and Putnam Counties and portions of Dutchess and Westchester Counties.
“Hudson Valley families need a strong voice in Washington who will protect taxpayers, create new jobs and stand up for our veterans and first responders. As a member of Congress, I will lead the fight against the radical socialist ideology that is driving Nancy Pelosi’s agenda and the liberal policies being advanced by Congressional Democrats.” Schmitt said. “I believe Washington has to work for the Hudson Valley again. The families who live and work in small towns and suburban communities across our district need a strong voice who will bring people together to protect and improve their quality of life. I will work every day to deliver real results for Hudson Valley families and defend our values.”
Schmitt announced Orange County Clerk Annie Rabbitt and former Senator Terrence Murphy would serve as Campaign Co-Chairs of the Congressional Campaign.
“Colin Schmitt will be an outstanding Congressman. I have known Colin since he was in middle school. I saw him grow up here in the Hudson Valley and serve our nation, state, and community with distinction in the military and public service. I have served Orange County for many years and know of no one better to stand up for our values and our people than Assemblyman Colin Schmitt, our next Congressman.” Rabbitt said.
The National Republican Congressional Committee, in a prepared statement issues Tuesday, accused Maloney of having “disdain for law enforcement.”
“With every choice he makes in Washington, Sean Patrick Maloney proves he despises Hudson Valley law enforcement officials and the hardworking men and women of his district. Maloney’s days representing his district are numbered.” said NRCC Spokeswoman Samantha Bullock Maloney, first elected in 2012, is currently serving his fifth term in Washington.
Brett Broge, Chair of the Orange County Democratic Committee, issued a statement Tuesday calling Schmitt bad for the Hudson Valley and bad for New York’s 18th Congressional District.
“…Colin Schmitt has failed his constituents, voting to cut over $400 million from New York hospitals and against eviction protections, child care, and paid family leave in the middle of the pandemic,” Broge said. “His actions helped incite an insurrection against the United States Government, endangering the lives of police officers and elected officials. We can’t allow a Trump crony and insurrectionist to represent this seat in Congress.”