In the News

Syracuse, NY – Central and western New York seniors and retirees hosted a press conference Friday the 12th with Dana Balter, Democratic nominee for Congress in NY-24, to talk about concerns over threats to the critical programs of Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security. John Katko has refused to protect Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security in the Balanced Budget Amendment.

As Mr. Katko knows, Dana Balter moved to Syracuse in 2003, where she has a job and owns a home. Yes, her job title is “visiting professor” because that is the title her employer uses for professors who do not yet have tenure. It does not mean that she is merely visiting Syracuse. If Mr. Katko believes that he is better qualified to serve as our congressional representative because he has lived in the area longer than she has, why doesn’t he just say that? Why misrepresent the situation?

Discussion on local environmental concerns and priorities included growing a green economy, renewable energy, and climate change Syracuse, NY – Dana Balter, Democratic nominee for Congress in NY-24, hosted Congressman Paul Tonko (NY-20) and local environmental leaders for a roundtable discussion on top environmental concerns for the 24th district. Environmental leaders included Pete Wirth, Climate […]

Dana Balter, proposed a series of debates to be held over the course of several weeks, in all four counties of the district, with some to be held in front of live audiences. John Katko refused, instead insisting on only four highly-controlled debates scheduled just days before the election, to be held in the City of Syracuse.

Balter told reporters at a news conference that she wants public debates in all four counties in the 24th District, with some in front of live audiences. She proposed seven debates and four joint town hall meetings.

Balter also called for the debates and forums to be held throughout October, rather than in the final two weeks before the Nov. 6 election. She said the earlier schedule would give voters more time to evaluate the candidates.

“I’m honored to be endorsed by President Obama,” Balter said in a statement. “He is an extraordinary leader and public servant who understands the importance and power of a message of optimism and progress. “It’s gratifying that he recognizes our campaign embodies those ideas and that we are working hard to restore integrity to our politics.”

“Dana Balter is a fierce advocate for women’s access to full, equitable, and comprehensive health care,” said Dawn Laguens, Executive Vice President of Planned Parenthood Action Fund. “Planned Parenthood Action Fund is proud to stand with her to further the rights of women and people in New York’s 24th District and all across the country. Dana has shown us time and again that she is willing to stand up and defend the idea that your body is your own, and the rights of all people to make their own health care choices.”