Assembly hopefuls cordial in debate

POTSDAM — The race for the 118th state Assembly District kept its docile pace at Wednesday's debate.

The candidates for the vacant seat spent much of the two hours at Clarkson University agreeing with each other while occasionally offering different solutions. Only questions on gay marriage and prosecution of the Amish over building codes drew clearly opposing opinions.

They stuck mostly to campaign messages. Republican Robert W. "Bobby" Cantwell III repeatedly outlined how tax relief and eliminating wasteful government spending will stimulate the economy. Democrat Addie J. Russell continued to stress that the north country has everything it needs to succeed but a stronger unifying voice. Independent Donald J. Lucas proclaimed himself as the nonpartisan candidate who found value in points made by both opponents.

The candidates were asked if the state should intervene in Amish building code violation cases because towns are enforcing state policy. The towns of Morristown and Hammond have taken members of an Old Order Amish sect to court for failing to comply, and many communities are watching for guidance. The Amish say regulations violate the freedom to exercise their religion.

Mrs. Russell, a Jefferson County legislator from Theresa, supported a hands-off approach at the state level, even when pressed about whether the attorney general's office should take over expensive prosecution.

"I would prefer that the issue run its course as other legal matters do and work it's way through the court system," she said. "I don't see the need to send in the AG's office now."

Mr. Cantwell favors giving the Amish a pass.

"I believe we have to respect them and respect their ideals," he said.

All three acknowledged the safety requirement, which Mr. Lucas focused on the most by saying something needs to be done when a non-Amish person acquires such homes.

The candidates had short responses when asked if they support civil unions. Mr. Cantwell and Mr. Lucas said they have the traditional view of marriage between a man and woman while Mrs. Russell said she supports civil unions. All three said they did not see the need for increased law enforcement presence in the area. They agreed that continuing to increase tobacco taxes is an effective way to deter smoking.

"I see people throwing the butts on the ground. We've got to pay to have them picked up. Why not have some of that go into public works?" said Mr. Lucas, a retired Alcoa worker from Massena and admitted smoker.

All three said they'd try to build partnerships in Albany to give the region a greater voice. Mr. Lucas talked about forming alliances, Mr. Cantwell proposed a "north country coalition," and Mrs. Russell said she expected to work closely with Sen. Darrel J. Aubertine, D-Cape Vincent, who is running to retain the 48th state Senate District seat.

The candidates were allowed to ask each other one question. Mr. Cantwell asked if they supported term limits for leadership positions in the Legislature. Mr. Lucas said yes, Mrs. Russell was opposed.

Mrs. Russell, who favors increasing minimum wage, asked for her opponents' opinions.

"I'd consider it, but right now, I'd say I would not support an increase," Mr. Cantwell said. "I think we should leave it up to the business men and women."

Mr. Lucas agreed, but took it a step further, saying business should be granted an exemption if they provide health insurance and child care.

Mr. Lucas, who was tossed off the ballot because of a paperwork-filing omission, asked Mrs. Russell what she would do to level the playing field for independent candidates. She responded that information needs to be more readily and clearly available for potential candidates.

"You've continued to raise the consciousness of the people in the river district that you can run for office without being in one of the bigger parties," she said.

Mr. Lucas asked Mr. Cantwell how he would replace revenues lost from his tax-cut proposals, other than championing his theme of curtailing wasteful spending. Mr. Cantwell stuck to this message.

More than 40 attended, but the crowd was composed mostly of families, political workers and the media.

Other topics included extending heating assistance, improving health care and creating jobs.