By now, most are aware that the race for Ulster County Executive is on between town of Ulster supervisor James Quigley and former state senator Jen Metzger. 

The progress former county executive Pat Ryan made cannot be left to anyone at this time other than Jen Metzger.

Growing up in a poor family that had to move frequently, she understands the value of a solid education and a strong government’s role in protecting it.

As a state senator, Ms. Metzger passed nation-leading climate protection legislation and laws protecting reproductive freedom. She also focused on issues that affect our daily lives in Ulster County, such as broadband access, housing safety, and protecting small farmers. As a leader on the NY State Cannabis Control Board, she is working to establish the most significant new industry in our state in decades, based on principles of equity and sustainability.

Thanks to Metzger’s Senate bill (now law), the “Comprehensive Broadband Connectivity Act,” the state Public Service Commission has been working to develop–for the first time–accurate data on internet service gaps, affordability and reliability statewide, correcting for years of policy that relied on flawed federal data. Metzger wants to ensure Ulster residents know about federal assistance right now if they qualify, through the Affordable Connectivity Program for low-income households.

Metzger’s opponent has no experience in this area.

Small businesses are the pulse of our communities, and Ms. Metzger promises, as county executive, to provide homegrown businesses with the resources they need to thrive.

There are myriad reasons to vote for Jen Metzger for County Executive on November 8. These are just a few.