Kristen McElroy, a candidate for State Senate in the 6th District, joined Jay Jacobs, Nassau County Democratic Committee Chairman, and local supporters to officially kick off her campaign. Supporters gathered at Kristen's campaign headquarters for thanks and encouragement from Chairman Jacobs and Kristen, then launched an evening of direct voter contact, including volunteer phone calls and public campaigning at local retail stores. The formal launch comes on the heels of Democratic officials and political experts designating Kristen's campaign as an exciting opportunity for a challenger to upset a 19-year Republican incumbent.

Kristen explained the motivation behind her campaign, stating, "I'm not a politician, I'm a working mom. I'm running for office because every day, I see how families here in Long Island are struggling with crushing property taxes, out-of-control gas prices and rising healthcare costs. Too many families are split up or forced to leave New York State, because the cost of living is overwhelming. I want my children to have the same opportunities I had: good schools, safe streets and affordable housing. It's time for a change in leadership, to bring fiscal responsibility to Albany and real help to Long Island families."

Jay Jacobs, Chairman of the Nassau County Democratic Committee, said "The Nassau County Democrats are extremely excited about Kristen's candidacy. The voters of the 6th Senate District are clearly ready for change in our State Senate leadership. Sending Kristen McElroy to Albany will ensure that Long Island families finally have a state government that works for them, not for Albany insiders. We will work tirelessly for the next 40 days to make sure we reach every voter, and come November 4, we look forward to celebrating a great victory here in Nassau County."

June O'Neill, Chair of the New York State Democratic Committee, added "Today was a clear demonstration of Kristen McElroy's strong support. We are proud to have her as one of our Democratic candidates for the State Senate and we know that she will help bring change to Albany."

Kristen is running for the State Senate on the Democratic and Working Families Party lines in the 6th Senate District, which includes parts of the Town of Hempstead and Oyster Bay. She is a former prosecutor and practicing attorney in her home county of Nassau, and is a lifelong resident of Garden City with her husband Matt and three children.