Largest Congressional Petition Effort in the History of the StateIn an unprecedented effort, Independent and Reform Party candidate Martin Babinec today filed over 10,000 signatures with the New York State Board of Elections to establish the Upstate Jobs Party line. The signatures gathered from voters across the 22nd Congressional District represent the incredible grassroots response to Babinec’s message focused on a real, detailed plan to create upstate jobs and an identity of independence from the two major parties.
“We’ve experienced a groundswell of support from voters across the district who are tired of the same old phony promises from both parties about creating jobs – they want a real plan and real action,” said Babinec.
To create a new ballot line, election law requires 3,500 signatures from any registered voter who has not already signed a petition for a congressional candidate. With this submission of over 10,000 signatures, 10,122 at last count, the effort surpassed any known congressional signature drive in the state – including from major party candidates who benefit from having access to an established volunteer list to gather signatures.
“The system is rigged against outsiders like me who seek to make a difference. From the arcane rules, to the steep ballot requirements and a quasi-professional underfunded electoral machinery controlled by the two-parties, for the two parties – it is nearly impossible for concerned citizens to run for office, said Babinec.
He added, “The fact we were able to set a new signature record beginning a campaign with zero volunteers and no organizational support speaks to how we are starting a movement that resonates with volunteers and voters alike.”
Babinec, a successful entrepreneur and upstate jobs advocate is a first time candidate in the three-way race to succeed retiring Congressman Richard Hanna.
Babinec continued, “Our goal remains to build an organization that goes beyond my congressional campaign. It is our intent to establish the Upstate Jobs Party as force in this election and beyond for candidates who are committed to a smarter way to create the higher paying jobs our region is capable of producing. I want to thank all of the volunteers who gave of their time to help us reach this milestone. “
Concluded Babinec, “As I talk to voters, it’s clear that there’s a strong desire not only to vote for someone who has a plan to create jobs, but people want to see an independent win as a 3rd party candidate.”