Cait Conley
Letter to the Editor:
At the outset of the CD17 Democratic primary, the candidates made a public commitment not to attack one another. The purpose was simple: avoid providing ammunition that Mike Lawler could later use against the eventual Democratic nominee in the general election.
To their credit, the candidates honored that pledge—with one regrettable exception.
Beth Davidson has repeatedly centered her campaign on accusations against Cait Conley that originated with Lawler and partisan media outlets. Most notably, Davidson has sought to portray Conley’s previous work as evidence that she somehow supports policies harmful to immigrant communities. These claims are unsubstantiated, false and rely on little more than guilt by very questionable association.
If such reasoning were valid, one could just as easily question Davidson’s ownership of substantial investments in Microsoft, Amazon, and Oracle—companies that have, at various times, contracted with federal agencies, including DHS and ICE. Yet that would be equally unfair and misleading.
Rather than respond in kind, Conley has focused on the issues and on her record of service as a West Point honor graduate, Army officer, combat veteran, and former senior national security official. She has also been unequivocal in condemning abuses of power and calling for accountability and reform within federal immigration enforcement agencies.
Negative campaigning can be effective, but it comes at a cost. Davidson’s willingness to break her word and repeat unsubstantiated attacks raises concerns about judgment and character. As Martin Luther King Jr. reminded us, content of character matters.
A candidate’s word should mean something. Cait Conley has demonstrated that principle throughout this campaign, and throughout her life of public service. Add to that unique skill sets, fiery determination and selfless motivation and you have the only candidate that can realistically beat Mike Lawler and reclaim our seat in Congress on election day.
Jay Forbes
Peekskill,
