The National Republican Congressional Committee today announced that they are promoting Jack Martins and John Faso to their “Young Guns” program in an effort to boost their respective Congressional campaigns. It is telling that the best the NRCC could come up with for these competitive open seats is two Albany insiders who have been tainted by their time in the scandal-ridden in the state capitol.
In the 3rd Congressional District, the NRCC thinks Jack Martins, a Dean Skelos apologist, has what it takes to win. It is also worth noting that Jack Martins’ conservative views are at odds with the values and priorities of Long Island middle-class families. He refused to support the Women’s Equality Act because of his opposition to a woman’s right to choose. abortion rights. Whereas an overwhelming majority of New Yorkers back marriage equality, Martins opposed even extending marriage rights to same-sex couples.
In the 19th, the NRCC has thrown their weight behind John Faso, whose wildly conservative record is far out of step with the district. Faso called Roe v. Wade a “black mark” on the country, and once likened anti-choice proponents to modern day “abolitionists.” Faso even opposed a bipartisan measure ensuring both safe access to abortion clinics and protections against stalking. Further, Faso faced allegations of illegal lobbying activity in a blockbuster pay-to-play pension fund scandal. Faso’s firm ended up settling, paying the state an enormous fine of $500,000. The scandal did not escape criticism from Faso’s primary opponent, who relentlessly attacked Faso for saying he was “proud” of his lobbying record.
“If these are the best candidates the Republican Party can come up with, then they should be very concerned about losing in November these seats,” said Bryan Lesswing of the DCCC. “New Yorkers are looking for real leadership, not Albany insiders who will put party over people.”