Common Sense: Presidential politics

I noticed that New York’s former three term Republican Governor George Pataki threw his hat into the 2016 Presidential race last week.  Although clearly a long shot in a crowded field of current well known national and state Republican office holders, Governor Pataki is a thoughtful, articulate, respected advocate for conservative Republican views on a number of important international and domestic issues.

Even if it would be difficult to support or even imagine him as the Republican nominee, he has something to say, it usually makes a lot of sense and he is worth a listen.  He certainly will add to the debate over the next few months.

***

Governor Pataki will be at the annual New York State Conservative Party dinner on June 18^th which I have the honor of chairing. He will be joined by another announced Presidential candidate former Hewlett-Packard CEO Carly Fiorina who will be a keynote speaker.

In the past few years the State Conservative Party has attracted as guest speakers Presidential candidates Jeb Bush and Rick Perry as well as possible candidate Governor Mike Pence. Since Ronald Reagan was the keynote speaker in 1975, the Conservative Party has been a necessary stop for anyone seriously considering a bid for the Republican nomination for President.

The dinner is being held at the New York Sheraton in midtown Manhattan starting at 6 PM. If you would like more information on this major political event feel free to contact the Conservative Party at 718 921-2158.

***

There really was no excuse for New York City’s failure to obey its own local law and fail to fly the POW/MIA flag at City Hall. I am not going to take the easy way out on this one and simply blame the Mayor.  Personally I think that each and every public official who moves in and out of that building each day deserves a share of the blame. I do compliment the Daily News and others for bringing it to the City’s attention.

It is ironic and sad that a flag that in bold lettering declares that “YOU ARE NOT FORGOTTEN” was itself forgotten by the City of New York.

***

I wish to join with State Senator Marty Golden and Assemblymember Nicole Malliiotakis who commended the Senate, House and President for passing and signing the National Blue Alert System into law which is designed to better protect police. The measure creates a nationwide alert system to assist in the apprehension of anyone who hurts, kills, or legitimately threatens police officers. The legislation is named in honor of officers Liu and Ramos.

Golden and Malliotakis have similar legislation before the New York Legislature.