GOP ready for 2025
COLONIE —The Colonie Republican Committee has announced its slate of candidates for the 2025 town elections, setting up key races for town receiver of taxes, three town board seats, and three town justice positions.
Party Chairman George Scaringe said he was confident in the candidates, citing their experience and commitment to serving the community.
“I am extremely impressed by the experienced and professional individuals who came forward this year to run for town office and serve the residents of Colonie,” Scaringe said. “Each one of these candidates has years of experience serving our community in various capacities, and they are dedicated to working under the leadership of Supervisor Peter Crummey to make Colonie a safer, stronger, and more affordable place to live, work, and play.”
Running for re-election is Kim “Spiak” Cuva for Town Receiver of Taxes, while Ryan Caponera is seeking another term as Town Justice, joined on the ballot by PJ Blanchfield and E. Guy Roemer. For the town board, incumbent Jeff Guzy is seeking re-election, while newcomers Ben Garry and Donna Karrat Ryan are also seeking seats.
Scaringe stressed the significance of the upcoming election, particularly for town leadership positions that oversee finances, legislation, and the justice system.
“This year’s election is critically important for the Town; especially for the leadership of our courts, town board, and receiver of taxes office,” Scaringe said. “We are truly fortunate to have a team with vast qualifications, the know-how, and the ability to serve our Town and get the job done for our residents.”
The announcement follows Albany County Legislator Jennifer Whalen’s departure from the GOP. She joined the Democratic Party after expressing interest in running for town justice.
According to the Times Union, Whalen switched parties after the Republican leadership opted not to support her candidacy for the judicial position. The move positions Whalen on the opposite side of the ballot from her former colleagues, as she now seeks election under the Democratic line.
Whalen has been a fixture in Colonie and Albany County politics for years. She was first elected to the Colonie Town Board in 2015 before moving on to the Albany County Legislature in 2019, representing Loudonville and parts of Colonie in the 21st District. Before that, she made an unsuccessful bid for the New York State Assembly’s 109th District in 2010, falling short against incumbent Robert Reilly. She also previously sought the position of Albany County Clerk.
Beyond politics, Whalen is an attorney with a background in contract negotiations, foreclosure litigation, and regulatory law. She has served as an Assistant Attorney General and Assistant Counsel for the New York State Racing and Wagering Board, where she worked on financial recoveries and Medicaid fraud prevention. She also runs her own real estate firm, The Whalen Group Distinguished Properties, Inc., which specializes in residential and commercial properties in the Capital Region.
Whalen’s decision to switch parties was influenced by her desire to continue her public service in a role where she could make a difference. She cited her commitment to human rights and support for women in leadership positions as key factors in her transition to the Democratic Party.
The general election is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 4.
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