Letters to the editor — Thursday, June 18

A case for Sam Hodge in the Democratic primary

I’ve voted for Didi Barrett in every election for the last 14 years, but I’ll be voting for Sam Hodge in the June Democratic primary.

As someone who knows Sam, I believe he is better suited to serve our community in the Assembly. Good elected officials need judgment, integrity, authenticity, the ability to listen, and a willingness to take on difficult challenges. Sam checks every box.

When Sam became Chair of the Columbia County Democratic Committee in 2021, Democrats held little countywide power. Under his leadership, Democrats elected two sheriffs, a district attorney, judges, coroners, and helped send Pat Ryan and, later, Josh Riley to Congress. Fundraising records were broken, and races were won, but what impressed me most was something less measurable: Sam gave people hope. He energized volunteers, built a stronger organization, and helped people believe they could make a difference. The results speak for themselves and offer a preview of the type of Assembly member Sam will be.

Outside politics, Sam has dedicated his career to public service. As a Special Victims Prosecutor, he handled domestic violence, child abuse, and sex crimes cases, stood with survivors, and held offenders accountable. It was difficult work that demanded compassion, resilience, and a deep commitment to justice. Those qualities matter in public office.

I’ve also been fortunate to know Sam as a friend. He’s hardworking, quick to smile, kind, reliable, thoughtful, and genuinely motivated by helping others. What you see is what you get.

As for this Assembly race, I believe it’s time for a change.

I respect Didi Barrett’s years of service, but I don’t believe she should be reelected. It is a matter of public record that, while serving as Assembly Energy Chair, she accepted tens of thousands of dollars from utility and energy company PACs. It’s a conflict of interest. Democrats rightly criticize the influence of money in politics. We shouldn’t ignore it when politicians on our side of the aisle cash the checks.

It’s time to elect a new generation of leaders. Albany and our politics need fresh perspectives, new energy, and a renewed focus on delivering results.

When Sam engages with voters, I’m struck by his curiosity, thoughtfulness, and genuine commitment to solving problems. He approaches challenges with a determination to improve people’s lives. At a time when the cost-of-living crisis is worsening, we need leaders who are independent of corporate influence, effective, and unafraid to fight for what’s right.

The challenges facing New York today demand new ideas and strong leadership. I know Sam; I can say with confidence that he is ready to serve and deliver. He will be an outstanding Assemblymember. Vote for Sam Hodge on June 23.

Lloyd Marks

Claverack

Party leaders should stay neutral

On June 3rd I, and apparently every Democrat in District 106, received a “personal letter from the desk of Michael Dupree, Chair of the Dutchess County Democrats.” It was a blatant use of his position of power to canonize Didi Barrett and put down Sam Hodge. As a leader in the party, that crosses a line that should not have been crossed. Actions like this are why the Democratic Party [not the individual Democratic candidates] has the lowest approval rating of any party and any candidate.

Primaries are an opportunity for voters to have choices in who they feel will best represent them and push hardest to serve their needs. Party officials need to respect that not everyone looks for the same thing in their elected officials and not pressure them in their choices. Many are ready for change in Albany and that may be uncomfortable to some. The letter I received insinuates that Sam doesn’t understand how Albany works. Actually, I would say he knows how Albany has worked for far too long and he’s running to work for the change that so many of us desperately want to see.

Louise Meryman

Pine Plains (Shekomeko)