Attorney General candidate speaks at Madison County Democratic fundraiser
Mo Campanie honored at event for her community service
Letitia “Tish” James, candidate for New York State Attorney General, was the featured speaker at the Madison County Democratic Committee’s ninth annual James and Dolley Madison dinner June 1. It was her first official campaign appearance since receiving the Democratic Party’s endorsement May 23.
At the dinner, the committee also honored Maureen “Mo” Campanie for her work as founder of Concerts for a Cause, a grassroots initiative that raises funds and awareness of local organizations working to benefit the local community.
James is the New York City Public Advocate, the second highest-ranking elected office in the city, and she is the first African American woman to hold citywide office. The Public Advocate serves as a direct link between New Yorkers and their government, acts as a watchdog over city agencies and investigates complaints about city services. She is a lawyer and is attending Columbia’s School of International and Public Affairs.
She previously served as a member of the New York City Council. She spoke about her history of representing indigent defendants, investigating consumer fraud and standing up to developers on behalf of property owners. James said that during her time as Public Advocate, 32,000 constituent complaints have been resolved.
“We all need a champion who is not afraid to speak truth to power,” James said.
She said if she is elected, she will work to protect women’s rights, take on special interests, support organized workers and restore dignity to government.
“We were honored to have Tish make Madison County the first stop in her campaign to become New York’s next Attorney General,” said Madison County Democratic Committee Chair Mike Oot.
Campanie spoke about her efforts to use music to unite people around common concerns and at the same time raise funds for important causes. Last year, the series raised about $8,000 to support organizations such as Citizens Campaign for the Environment, Pathways Wellness Center, Samaritan House and Interfaith Works’ Center for New Americans.
“Mo’s work through the Concerts for a Cause series benefitted several important area organizations and hundreds of people who rely on those groups for vital assistance,” Oot said. “This award is a small thank you for her contribution toward making our community a better place to live.”
Other speakers included Maureen Zupan, who discussed the grassroots campaign work of the Cazenovia Call to Action group and the New York Congressional District #22 “Knit the District” efforts, and Melissa Stearns, candidate for state Supreme Court Sixth Judicial District justice.