PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. — A call for an investigation has emerged in Clinton County after the vice chair of the local Republican Committee accused Democratic candidate Michael Cashman of election law violations. Jeff Luck, who holds the position, filed a complaint with the New York State Board of Elections against Cashman, currently the Town of Plattsburgh Supervisor and a candidate for Assembly District 115.
The complaint alleges that Cashman misused his taxpayer-funded office during a political rally held earlier this month to announce his candidacy for the seat left vacant by Billy Jones. According to Luck, the rally, which took place on September 2, was conducted in a public building with taxpayer resources, potentially breaching state law. The complaint will initiate an investigation in Albany.
Luck claims that Cashman not only held the announcement at Plattsburgh Town Hall but also utilized a podium owned by the town and displayed campaign banners within the venue. He expressed disappointment over what he described as Cashman’s attempt to mislead voters, suggesting either a deliberate flouting of the law or ignorance of the regulations.
“It is an affront to taxpayers to host a political event in a public building while utilizing taxpayer-funded equipment,” Luck stated. He characterized Cashman’s actions as both dangerous and arrogant, accusing him of believing himself beyond accountability as a politician.
In response, Cashman dismissed the allegations as a “distraction,” contending that Town Hall has been a neutral space for political gatherings from all parties. He emphasized that the open press conference was intended to discuss pressing issues such as rural health care and housing. “The people of the North Country can distinguish political noise and expect their leaders to prioritize genuine concerns over manufactured controversies,” he added.
Luck is now urging Cashman to admit to the alleged violation and apologize to the citizens of the North Country. He also called for Cashman to reimburse the town for the incurred costs associated with the event.
The special election is set for November 4, as announced by New York Governor Kathy Hochul. Cashman is expected to face Brent Davison, a retired New York State Police commander and the nominee selected by the Republican chairs of Clinton, Essex, and Franklin counties.
This incident adds to the burgeoning controversies within the election landscape. Recently, Luck, along with Clinton County Republican Chair Jerika Manning, found themselves embroiled in a dispute regarding the official nominee for the Republican Party with Rep. Elise Stefanik and State Sen. Dan Stec.
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