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New York Republicans are raising concerns about potential election interference after over 200 stamped mailers for GOP House candidate Alison Esposito were discovered scattered near a creek in Putnam County.
The campaign materials, which were intended to be delivered to voters in New York’s 18th Congressional District, were found by a local resident on Monday. The discovery has prompted calls for an investigation into what Republicans are calling a “serious” incident.
Esposito, a former NYPD deputy inspector, is challenging Democratic incumbent Rep. Pat Ryan in a closely watched race. Her campaign expressed concern over the incident, with spokesperson Bill O’Reilly stating that it appears to be a deliberate attempt to suppress Republican votes.
The Putnam County Sheriff’s Office has launched an investigation into the matter, and the US Postal Service has been notified. Sheriff Kevin McConville emphasized the importance of protecting the integrity of the election process and assured the public that his office is taking the incident seriously.
Republican leaders in the state have called for a thorough investigation, with New York GOP Chairman Ed Cox urging accountability for what he described as an apparent attempt to interfere with the election. Cox urged state and federal authorities to treat the matter with the utmost urgency.
The incident has also caught the attention of national Republican figures, including Rep. Elise Stefanik, who called for a full investigation by the US Postal Service Inspector General. Stefanik emphasized the need to ensure that every vote counts and that the democratic process is protected.
Exclusive | NY Republicans claim 'election interference' as over 200 stamped mailers for GOP House candidate Alison Esposito found strewn near creek@ https://t.co/aRZjijt0cn
— Sal Gueli (@sal_gueli) November 1, 2024
As the investigation unfolds, the Esposito campaign is working to ensure that affected voters receive the intended campaign materials. The incident has added another layer of tension to an already competitive race in a district that could play a crucial role in determining control of the House of Representatives.
With Election Day approaching, both campaigns are intensifying their efforts to reach voters. The discovery of the discarded mailers has heightened concerns about the security and fairness of the electoral process, particularly in closely contested districts.
As authorities continue to investigate the incident, political observers are closely watching how it might impact voter sentiment and turnout in the final days of the campaign. The outcome of this race could have significant implications for the balance of power in Congress and the direction of national politics in the coming years.