Sept. 29, 2008

Sen. Charles Schumer endorses Tonello for State Senate

New York's senior senator, Charles Schumer (D-NY), today endorsed Elmira Mayor John Tonello for State Senate, calling Tonello a "middle-class reformer who knows how to solve problems that face all New Yorkers."

"John Tonello has strong middle-class roots," Schumer said. "He understands the needs of the men and women who travel to work each day to earn a paycheck because that's what he's done his whole life. He understands that people are suffering because the prices of food and energy are going up, because they can't afford health care, and because state government can't seem to solve their most basic problems."

Senator Schumer highlighted the importance of Tonello's middle-class background and the fact that Tonello, like many others who grew up in the Southern Tier, worked his way through college, earned a living and bought a home.

"Today, it's much harder for young people to afford college, find a job, and live the American dream, and no one understands that better than John Tonello," Schumer said. "He understands it because he has lived it."

Tonello's passion for trying to make things better for the average citizen is what drove him to run for mayor three years ago and for State Senate this year.

"John is completely dedicated to his city and its people," Schumer said. "That's why he stepped up three years ago and, despite the odds, won the mayor's office. He's a rare public servant who simply wanted to help halt the decline of his city, which has suffered from the loss of jobs and people. His outsider's perspective and bipartisan approach helped him do just that. He has worked with Democrats and Republicans, businesspeople and unions. He has encouraged city staff to take bold steps to solve problems and he gives them credit. Elmira is far better off as a result."

Schumer said Tonello's approach is what's needed in Albany. "This year, New Yorkers face a true choice: A continuation of the State Senate status quo that has hurt seniors, the poor, working-class men and women, students, and all but those who profit from special interests, or true reform. John Tonello has what it takes to help deliver that reform."

"This year, the best choice for New York's 53rd Senate District is John Tonello," Schumer said. "He's a reformer. He's a hard worker. He solves problems. This is not about party, but about solutions. I urge voters of Chemung, Schuyler, Steuben, Tompkins and Yates counties to cast their ballots for John Tonello. New York will be better for it."

Tonello said he was humbled by Schumer's endorsement. "I'm truly honored to have Sen. Schumer's support," he said.