With your unwavering support, I was elected to represent all of the residents of the 35th District in the New York State Senate, a dramatic, long-sought after victory against an entrenched incumbent -- a victory which played a major role in tipping the balance in the Senate, resulting in a Democratic Majority for the first time in decades.
As you know, my campaigns were for real reform that would result in the passage of vital, progressive legislation. After almost a year in the Majority, we are continuing to move forward in our pursuit of this agenda and our efforts to bring balance, equity and transparency to State government, through a new vision of leadership that I believe is necessary to enact real reform and to correct the disparities which have defined the status quo for half a century.
Whether it's expanding access to affordable healthcare, increasing funding for our schools, working for tax relief, creating opportunities for small businesses, protecting homeowners from foreclosure, ensuring civil rights for all New Yorkers, preserving our environment, or safeguarding women's reproductive rights, I've worked hard to get real results for our community and to bring real change to Albany. Much has been done, and much remains to be done as we pursue an aggressive agenda for change, opportunity and reform - and I look forward to the work ahead.
I have stood up in Albany, often with the gavel in my own hand - as the first African-American woman to ever preside over the Senate Chamber - working for our progressive agenda. In an editorial last June, The New York Times said, "...a few responsible Senators could move Albany in the right direction," and they suggested eight members of the Senate to serve on what they called "a coalition of the responsible". I was honored to be one of four Democrats that the Times recommended to serve on that coalition.
My re-election is critical to continuing our efforts, and the most difficult aspect of this challenge is that, once again, I need to raise significant funds to ensure that I am able to launch a competitive campaign in 2010. Recently, an article appeared in The Capitol highlighting the Republican plan to win back the State Senate by targeting my candidacy in the 35th District. Republican sources are quoted as saying that "there would be an all-out effort" to unseat me, and that they are prepared to "pour millions into the race". It was your commitment to ending business as usual and to real reform that brought me to this place, to empower all New Yorkers equally. I do not intend to give up or to let you down. I promise you that I will continue to be a force for positive change, and I remain inspired by your steadfast support and generosity.
On Friday, January 8, 2010, an event marking the beginning of my 2010 Re-Election Campaign will be hosted by Senator John Sampson, Democratic Conference Leader and Senator Jeff Klein, DSCC Co-Chair at X2O-Xaviars On The Hudson. I am counting on your support to make this event a success!
I have been honored with the privilege of serving you in Albany during this time of unprecedented challenge and transformation. I ask that you continue to stand with me for independence, opportunity, and real reform in New York State. Best wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season and a prosperous new year.
Very truly yours,
