Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Local Dems Respond to Clinton Candidacy

Hillary Clinton's candidacy for president is garnering some early support from democrats across the state, and locally.

Ken Preston is the original founder of Rochester for Obama. He says he's inspired by Clinton's announcement, and says he thinks a lot of her political platforms will resemble those of our current president.

"They were pretty much on the same footing when they ran against each other in 2007, 2008, and you know, she endorsed a lot of his policies when she worked for him."

Preston says he thinks this association won't be a hindrance to her campaign. When asked if he would pick up the cause and create a Rochester for Clinton organization, Preston said he thinks it's time for aspiring grass roots leaders to get involved.

Local Democratic Party Leader Dave Garretson says he also falls in the Hilary-for-President camp. He says he's excited about Clinton's run because of her track record in New York politics.

"Well of course here in Upstate New York, we all know Hilary Clinton, we remember what a stellar job she did as our senator. She was a strong advocate for working families and for girls and women around the world."

Garretson says he's been hearing a lot of enthusiasm from other local democrats about Clinton's run, and is looking forward to an exciting race in 2016.

Former Senator Ted O'Brien says he thinks if everyone had the opportunity to meet her, as he had as County Chair, they would vote for her.

"She's so bright, and knows how to connect with people in a unique way, has so much energy and so much vitality. She's going to be great for this country at a time when the country really needs someone great to take charge."

Not all New York Democrats are getting behind the former Secretary of State. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio made headlines when he said he would not endorse Clinton without a clearer understanding of her political platforms.

Veronica Volk is a senior editor and producer for WXXI News.