The battle for New York's 2nd Congressional District has begun and so has the spin coming from the Israel Campaign. According to an email that was sent out by the Israel camp on February 21, it states that I have a "personal problem with Congressman Israel, not just a differing idea of a future America".
The absurdity of that comment makes me wonder what exactly Mr. Israel is thinking. As a 20-year Military Veteran and a Field Grade Officer in the Army Reserve, I do consider myself a fighter, but for Congressman Israel to twist my enthusiasm for our upcoming contest as a personal affront to him, is bewildering.
The reality is that we hit a nerve and Congressman Israel is attempting to deflect attention away from an abysmal voting record which is propelling our country to the point of near insolvency. I believe all voters have a problem with elected officials who do not take personal responsibility for their actions. In Congressman Israel's case, not only doesn't he take responsibility for his actions, he blames others for the problems he and his voting record have brought upon our country.
To a certain degree he may be right though, because I do take it personally when Long Islanders are losing their jobs as a result of the misguided policies advocated by Congressman Israel. I take it personal when Long Islanders are forced to leave the area due to high taxes and lack of jobs. I take it personal when Congressman Israel enthusiastically supports the signing into law of a healthcare bill, which is not only unconstitutional but is stifling the growth of small businesses here on Long Island. And yes, I do take it personal when career politicians like say one thing when in their district and then vote a totally different way when in Washington.
Mr. Israel, the blame game and politics of self destruction must come to an end. As the Representative of New York’s 2nd Congressional District, I will not vilify opposing points of view, but will work on all sides of the political spectrum to bring jobs back to Long Island. This is what it means to represent the people of Long Island and it is something that has been sorely lacking on Long Island for a long time.
Steve Labate
2nd Congressional District Candidate
