By: Eric Gross, Staff Reporter Putnam County Courier
05/29/2008
MAHOPAC-While Kieran Lalor, a novice in the political arena, was chosen to represent the Republican Party in the 19th Congressional District this fall, the runner-up in the three man race has promised a primary contest in September.
Lalor, a former teacher, Marine Corps Iraqi War veteran and attorney, defeated Westchester County Legislator George Oros and former Congressman Joseph DioGuardi in a five county GOP nominating caucus held in Mahopac last Thursday night.
With 760 delegates casting ballots, Lalor tallied 347 votes to Oros' 311 and DioGuardi's 102.
The 19th CD encompasses all of Putnam County as well as sections of Dutchess, Westchester, Orange and Rockland. The seat is currently filled by Democrat John Hall who defeated six-term Congresswoman Sue Kelly two years ago.
Lalor told the delegates attending the caucus that he will become the "first Republican Iraqi War veteran to be in Washington. My campaign will reach out to Democrats, Conservatives and Independents as well as veterans who comprise one-sixth of the population of the 19th."
Lalor described himself as an "average guy. I have the most in common with the people of this district. I am a regular chap who is struggling with the same kinds of things that my future constituents are. I am not a career politician."
Lalor said his "unique background, passion and energy were all tailor made for the election. I know that I can beat John Hall."
Oros said while passion was extremely important, his enthusiasm had been tempered by "perspective. I'll leave the singing to John Hall but I'll be the voice of the 19th CD." Congressman Hall was a member of the popular band Orleans before deciding to run for Congress.
DioGuardi, who served in the House of Representatives from 1985 to 1989, described himself as the "only practicing CPA ever elected to Congress. I'm a loud mouth with expertise who appeals to not only Republicans but Democrats, Conservatives and Independents as well."
Last Friday, Oros told the Courier that while he experienced a "narrow loss at the convention, nothing has changed. I decided from Day 1 to challenge whoever received the GOP endorsement. In 1991, I won my first primary and have won every election since that time. I don't intend to stop the streak now."
DioGuardi said he had no intention of waging a primary battle in the fall. |
