Heed warning of Trump’s lies, cruelty

What better metaphor for the state of our democracy than the demolition of the White House East Wing?

Months after the president told Americans that “[the ballroom] won’t interfere with the current building,” the East Wing has been demolished to make room for a 1,000-person gold-plated ballroom. There are no permits and no approvals. It’ll apparently be funded by private donations. Any of this sound familiar?

It should. Trump has repeatedly lied to the American people. Over 100 American citizens have been illegally detained by federal authorities, despite his promise that ICE would only detain criminal migrants. Medicare and Social Security are under threat despite his promise to preserve them. Critics have been detained, forced out of the Pentagon press room, or had visas revoked despite his promise to protect free speech.

The solicitation of private donations for this gaudy ballroom continues the trend of blatant corruption. Remember the “meme coin” Trump released before inauguration? How about the jet from Qatar? Or maybe the $2 billion UAE investment in a Trump/Witkoff crypto firm? Trump agreed to sell the UAE advanced microchips despite the national security risk after that investment.

Fundamental and cherished aspects of society: free speech, transparency and justice are being undermined so that an out-of-touch billionaire can rake a few more chips to his side of the table.

MAGA can pull their stake in this failed casino magnate now or revel in his adolescent cruelty until the demolition goes beyond metaphor and society becomes financially and morally bankrupt.

Jared Iacolucci

Ballston Spa

Trust Porterfield and Farley to lead in city

My husband, Peter Carman, and I invite our neighbors to join us in voting for Marion Porterfield and Damonni Farley for Schenectady City Council on the Working Family Party line.

We have known and worked with Marion and Damonni since we moved to Schenectady more than a decade ago. We trust their investment in neighborhoods, housing, education, food security and government that serves all Schenectady residents.

We seek candidates with integrity, a deep investment in the community and a willingness to think and speak independently. We invite Schenectady voters to join us in re-electing Marion and Damonni. Vote early through Nov. 2 or on Election Day, Nov. 4.

Lynn Carman Bodden

Schenectady

Antonucci will work hard for Gloversville

I believe we have one man running for mayor of Gloversville who will put the people ahead of any politics.

That person is Gary Antonucci. He will work with all those who want to make our city a better place to live.

I strongly urge all the voters of Gloversville, regardless of party, to take the time to vote for the one candidate who will work with you in improving our city. Vote for Gary Antonucci.

John H. Quinn

Gloversville

Salvatore reflects leadership, values

The Gallatin Democrats are proud to endorse Jackie Salvatore for Columbia County sheriff.

Jackie will stand up for all families in Columbia County. She brings decades of experience, integrity and a deep commitment to public service.

Dedicated to maintaining a well-trained and fully staffed Sheriff’s Office, Jackie believes that true public safety is built on trust, accountability and respect for every resident.

Jackie understands that towns like Gallatin and others in southern Columbia County often have fewer resources and limited connections to local law enforcement.

She is committed to strengthening those relationships — so that every resident knows a familiar name to turn to when their day doesn’t go as expected. Jackie also recognizes that the mental health of every officer is essential to effective, compassionate policing. Her leadership emphasizes wellness, preparedness and community trust — values that reflect the very best of Columbia County.

Tara Silberberg

Gallatin

The writer is chair of the Gallatin Democratic Committee.

Democrats rise above in Niskayuna

After attending the Niskayuna debate between the candidates for town supervisor, I came away with the confidence that only one of the candidates possesses the relevant experience, expertise and concrete ideas of how to lead the town.

That person is Erin Cassady-Dorion. I was extremely impressed with her preparation, providing details of her ideas and accomplishments, and her overall demeanor, honesty and delivery.

She has also demonstrated the dedication that this position deserves by devoting herself to it full time, contrary to her opponent, who will continue to engage in side business endeavors.

Her opponent’s vague answers to the questions and fabricated financial numbers demonstrated a lack of understanding of what this position entails and exactly how he would help Niskayuna going forward. He appeared reluctant to support investing in our aging infrastructure, showing a wait-and-see attitude that would lead to much higher costs to taxpayers later on.

In these troubling times, local elections matter more than ever, and the Niskayuna Democratic team running for town offices all have superior qualifications and accomplishments that put them well above their opponents.

Lesley Spinnicchia

Niskayuna

Bilofsky has proven she’ll work for all

I’m proud to support Sarah Bilofsky, Democrat, for Niskayuna Town Board. I’ve had the opportunity to work with Sarah on the rebuilding of the town’s softball fields, and I was deeply impressed by her dedication, professionalism and commitment to doing what’s best for our community.

Sarah and I may come from different sides of the political aisle, but that never mattered to her.

She listened to everyone involved — players, parents, and town staff — and worked tirelessly to bring people together. She focused on results, not partisanship, and she helped move the project forward through teamwork and respect.

At a time when politics too often divides us, Sarah has shown that collaboration and common sense can still get things done. Niskayuna needs leaders like her — people who put the community first.

I encourage my neighbors to join me in supporting my friend Sarah Bilofsky for Niskayuna Town Board. She’s proven she’ll work for all of us.

David Apkarian

Niskayuna

Encouraging data on youth substance use

New local data reveals an encouraging truth: most Columbia and Greene county teens are not using drugs or alcohol.

The Columbia-Greene Addiction Coalition (CGAC) recently surveyed more than 600 students across both counties. The findings show that only 7% reported using cannabis in the past 30 days, 11% reported drinking alcohol, 7% vaped nicotine, and just 2% smoked cigarettes.

Only 1% reported taking someone........

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