JAMESTOWN – The Democrat candidate for Chautauqua County’s State Assembly seat is speaking out after she says she received threats of violence online.
Christina Cardinale tells WNYNewsNow since launching her campaign she has received threats surrounding her supposed second amendment stance.
“There seems to be a misunderstanding. I’ve received threats from individuals who are pro-second amendment,” says Cardinale. “I am also pro-second amendment. I grew up in a pro-gun household, with a parent who is an avid hunter. I was taught the necessary skills and knowledge for gun-ownership at a very young age.”
Cardinale says her affiliation with the Democratic party has led to misinformation. She is now requesting patience and understanding from the community.
“I identify as an independent Democrat. That may sound odd at first, but, ideologies are so divided right now, that’s the best way I can define myself,” furthered Cardinale. “I like to think independently. I don’t follow any politician blindly. I won’t base my decisions on partisanship. I’m interested in Chautauqua County’s best interest, not taking sides.”
She added that some of the threatening messages contained references to socialism or politicians who identify as Democratic Socialists of America. Cardinale says that she is sad people jump to conclusions based on her political affiliation.
“I think some assumptions are being made. I’m being compared to other political figures in the Democratic party,” said Cardinale. “I’m happy to ease the concerns of the community. I’m pro-gun. I’m not a socialist. I’m not going to infringe on the rights of Americans. I’m on your side. I’m not the enemy.”
Cardinale called for peace among community members, stressing the importance of working together.
“I want to work together and move Chautauqua County forward,” said Cardinale. “I politically challenge my opponent because I truly believe he has harmed our community for far too long. That’s the only challenge I’m interested in.”
Cardinale said she has since sought advice from local law enforcement on how to react to the threats.
She is running against incumbent Republican Assemblyman Andy Goodell in the fall general election.
What were the specific threats? Why aren’t they stated here in this article?
I’m not a Democrat, but I’m willing to listen to any reasonable person no matter what affiliation. I have not seen the original post so I’m mildly curious to know what was said. I hope the lady is okay and starting to feel safer, she didn’t deserve threats of physical or mental harm if that is the case. People of all parties are just so angry and frustrated at the moment and everyone is dividing and closing their minds. The world will never be the same, and our freedom of speech is a joke, most of them are. Our constitutional rights were walked all over by the FED and anyone else telling us we have to wear masks and stand 6 feet away from each other. It’s been like kindergarten. And everyone obeyed, that’s the scary part.
Personally I am a Trump supporter yet I am a registered Democrat. I worked on both of President Obama’s campaigns as well as President Trump’s. Much like Ms. Cardinale I don’t let anyone, much less a political party, define my beliefs. The most defining belief Ms. Cardinale has is that Chautauqua County is under represented or lacking a voice in Albany. I met Ms Cardinale 2 or 3 years ago when she became the marketing and sales director of a major downtown business. She is both enthusiastic, intelligent and wants only the best for Chautauqua County.
As for her opponent…I’ve known him since my return to Chautauqua County in 1992. Literally the only time I hear of or from him is during an election year asking for my vote. I believe that if we want to be heard…Ms. Cardinale is not only our best choice… she is our ONLY choice.