Here's a news release from Marc Coppola, a candidate for state Senate:
Marc Coppola, Town of Tonawanda resident and candidate for NYS Senate, is calling for an end to political corruption in Albany. Several minor party leaders are now under investigation for alleged illegal activities.
Coppola, who is the endorsed Democrat for State Senate running against Mike Ranzenhofer for the 61st District, believes fusion voting is part of the problem. It’s an election system that allows for candidates to run on multiple party lines.
“Minor parties and their leaders have a disproportionate amount of influence in New York State politics and our government,” Coppola said. “It has proven to be a pay-to-play system and a breeding ground for corruption.
"New York is one of only several states in the country that allows the tail to wag the dog and the voters and residents of this state deserve better."
Coppola has not requested, and will not accept, any party nomination other than his own and challenges his opponent, incumbent Ranzenhofer, to do the same.
"As long as candidates participate in this system that has become disingenuous, sometimes corrupt, and an insult to voters, it will continue," Coppola said. "I for one choose not to."
If elected, Coppola will sponsor legislation ending fusion voting in New York State.
