WATERTOWN, New York (WWNY) – Two days after announcing a run to replace Patty Ritchie in the state Senate, Republican Matt Doheny has bowed out.
“I am withdrawing my name from consideration for the new 50th State Senate District,” said Doheny.
Ritchie, also a Republican, had endorsed him in the race. She announced earlier this week that she was retiring and not seeking reelection.
Also announcing a run was Assemblyman Mark Walczyk, setting up a Republican primary contest. Walczyk was endorsed by Congresswoman Elise Stefanik.
“It has become obvious from the statements, that right now I have two opponents. It is impractical for me to run against a sitting state Assemblyman, at the same time running against a United States Congresswoman, who happens to be the third ranking member in the Republican caucus,” said Doheny.
In a pointed statement Wednesday, Stefanik said Doheny wasn’t fit for the job. In a statement, she said, “Now is not the time for a failed three time loser who has sat on the sidelines silent for years against the failed Far-Left policies in New York.”
Doheny, who ran for Congress three times, lost to Stefanik in 2014.
“I was shocked that a woman who I have, number one, endorsed, number two, quietly supported, number three, got out of the way in 2014, no matter what, would somehow provide what was unfortunately a vitriolic attack on me,” said Doheny.
Senator Ritchie told 7 News Friday: “I fully understand his decision and thank him for considering running to represent the 50th State Senate District.”
The announcement leaves Walczyk as the only Republican in the running so far.
“I wouldn’t be running for state Senate if I didn’t believe that this was a very important moment in New York’s history. We’re really going to decide what path is next,” said Walczyk.
As for Doheny, he says he’ll continue to stay active in politics, voting for the Republican line in 2022.
At least one Demorcat will be running for the Senate seat. Louisville resident Dan Girard announced his campaign Thursday.
He is a teacher at Salmon River Central and a former St. Lawrence County legislator.
Here’s Doheny’s statement announcing his departure from the race:
“Some time ago, Senator Ritchie asked me to consider running for the State Senate when she retired. I was humbled and appreciated her vote of confidence in me. I also respected Senator Ritchie’s efforts to plan a path for her retirement, following in the footsteps of her predecessors, including Ambassador Barclay, Secretary McHugh and Senator Wright. I intentionally did not do anything to eclipse Senator Ritchie and her retirement announcement. Instead, I spent my time seriously considering what I can offer as a public servant.
“I know that I have a skill set that is what the North Country needs at this point in time. Our area has experienced a steady decline. The recent census data evidences that the North Country is losing population, and significantly faster than New York and the national average. People here in the North Country face real challenges and struggles. We are just now emerging from an extended pandemic that has wreaked havoc on our economy and disrupted our daily lives. While I have certainly had some good luck along the way (including being raised here in the North Country), I am a self-made, successful business man and the lessons I have learned can be applied here in the North Country.
“My love for — and desire to help — the North Country remains. I will not, however, be running for the New York State Senate.
“Unfortunately, running in this race has become impractical. As we are seeing across the nation, the divisiveness of politics and the lengths that people will go to ‘win’ has a lasting and significant negative impact on our national fabric. When a local primary race devolves into this level of vitriol, it is not good for anyone – candidates or constituents. It leaves all parties damaged and takes the focus away from the real job: representing the people and working each and every day to make things better. A legislative role (like the New York State Senate) should not be decided by the involvement of national figures. Specifically, due to my respect for the 45th President of the United States, I would not want him to be dragged into the race either.
“I also want to address three false narratives that were floated: First, that Senator Ritchie misled Assemblyman Walczyk or that she did anything other than what she has always done – act in the best interests of the people of the North County. Senator Ritchie has known me and Assemblyman Walczyk (who worked for her) for many years. She had all the facts when she endorsed me.
“Second, Congresswoman Stefanik “blasted” me for being willing to put myself forward and run for office. Trying and not succeeding is not weakness. I hope people take this life lesson: it is okay to try. American history is filled with stories of great people that have had tremendous success- but only after many attempts. When setbacks happen, the key is to be resilient and persistent and move forward. That is grit. It is one of the things that makes America great.
“Third, I have never in my life sat on the sidelines. The people that live in this area know the many ways – large and small – that I am involved. From supporting many local candidates for office, to mentoring young adults, to youth coaching, to advising businesses, I work tirelessly. No one has ever challenged my work ethic.
“I have always been and will continue to be a loyal member of the Republican Party. In 2014, after a spirited primary, I congratulated Congresswoman Stefanik. I not only endorsed her I removed myself from the general election ballot. More importantly, I have purposely stayed out of her limelight, and quietly supported her, especially since she became a vocal supporter of President Donald J. Trump in November 2019. For the sake of the North Country, I hope that she continues her work for the North Country, as well as the Nation. This area desperately needs it.
“I will remain active in politics going forward. I look forward to voting for the Republican line in 2022. Moreover, I look forward to supporting President Trump if and when he announces his candidacy for President in 2024.”
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