#NY23 #NY24 #WNYStrong #PeopleOverPolitics #CommunityFirst

Both are stepping up in tough districts because our communities deserve better than the dysfunction coming out of Congress right now.

If we flip these seats, we flip the balance. Follow their campaigns, share their stories, and let’s send real leaders to Washington.

@believe-in-steve.bsky.social is running in NY-24. A 20+ year Army vet, he knows leadership is about service, not ego.

@aarongies.bsky.social is running in NY-23. A professor, dad, & advocate, he’s fighting for affordable housing, jobs, and healthcare in Western NY.

We should push for stronger candidates, not just settle because the process limited our choices. That’s how we actually build a party that can win.

I want to hear more from Blake before deciding whether I’d personally back him. If he steps up, engages the district meaningfully, and presents a strong platform, then absolutely, he deserves support. But candidates have to earn votes, not just be handed them in the name of unity.

Antonio, 2025 is a unique moment in U.S. history. We’re facing deep challenges to democracy, governance, and trust in institutions. That’s exactly why I believe we have to be intentional about who we support. Blind unity without accountability leads to complacency—and we’ve seen where that gets us.

Finally, I have not seen enough of Blake's platform or policy positions (even if I were a voter) to say I support him. He has yet to respond to many folks or be accessible to the district via town halls or virtual sessions.

The fact that the special election process actively eliminates all constituents' voices and concerns from the process, silencing us, should be concerning.

I live in Tampa. I wrote about the NY21 because I was actively working on Steve's campaign.

I also caution folks to demand party unity when they don't know or believe in a candidate. The GOP demanded unity behind Trump and look at that mess.

County Chairs did not hold open listening sessions, “Meet the Candidate” or provide any insight into their selection criteria.

Either way, NY-21 Democrats made their choice, and now it remains to be seen whether it will be the right one come Election Day.

Locals in NY-21 and around the country say no.

Choosing Holden would have meant selecting a leader with direct experience in these areas, someone who has spent decades in service to the country.
The decision ultimately reflects a broader debate within the Democratic Party: Are they handling special elections in a transparent and democratic way?

With the Dem Party emphasizing its support for veterans & public service, the choice to bypass Holden is notable. Military experience brings a unique perspective to governance—an understanding of national security, strategic decision-making, & firsthand knowledge of the challenges veterans face.

Steven Holden, a retired Lieutenant Colonel, has dedicated his life to military service. His campaign focused on his extensive service background, leadership experience, and commitment to fighting for everyday people, including farmers, veterans and small business owners.

Blake Gendebien, a former Republican, is a second-generation dairy farmer from Lisbon, New York. He owns and operates Twin Mill Farms, managing over 1,000 acres of land and 500 dairy cows. He is in with Big Agriculture & has a thin outline of his policy positions.

This decision raises important questions about the criteria for candidate selection and whether the party missed an opportunity to nominate a veteran with a lifetime of service.

In the recent selection for the Democratic nominee in New York’s 21st Congressional District, the Democratic Chairs chose Blake Gendebien over LTC Steven Holden, and other active candidates like Paula Collins.

Steven Holden, a retired Lieutenant Colonel, has dedicated his life to military service. His campaign focused on his extensive service background, leadership experience, and commitment to fighting for everyday people, including farmers and small business owners. (holdenforcongress.org)