December 11, 2008
Honorable Gary Ackerman
218-14 Northern Boulevard
Bayside, NY 11361

Dear Congressman Ackerman:

I am very disappointed by the comment you made to the New York Post regarding the selection of a U.S. Senator to fill the vacancy to be left by Secretary of State-designee Hillary Rodham Clinton.

This quotation from the Post says it all: “Ackerman also joked that he had taken himself out of the running for the Senate in a way that appeared to highlight (Caroline) Kennedy's lack of statewide experience. He said he wouldn't want to replace Clinton “because I don't do Utica, and that's a qualification for the job.”

Showing disrespect for an Upstate community at a time when your party claims it will serve the needs of all people of all parts of New York State is an action that speaks louder than all the good intentions voiced by others of your party.

It’s a shame you won’t “do Utica.” It is known around the world as “the town that loves refugees” because thousands of people from war-torn lands have fled persecution to begin a new era of the American dreams right here. This city has a rich history and an outstanding cultural life that makes it one of the most livable small cities anywhere in New York, and the nation. The combination of a great quality of life, proximity to the exciting world of the outdoors in the Adirondack Mountains, a deep ethnic tapestry growing more varied with every generation and a small-community feel where people know their neighbors and help them out makes this a community that deserves respect, not denigration.

All of us elected to represent portions of this state owe a loyalty not only to our own districts, but the welfare of the state as a whole. Thus, I am concerned by your comments, and ask for an apology. I frankly want a U.S. Senator who does not take umbrage at having to “do Utica;” I want a Senator who will value the people of every community.

The context for your comments was the issue of Caroline Kennedy occupying the Senate seat now held by Hillary Rodham Clinton, who most emphatically did “do Utica.” Just so you know the caliber of the candidates who are willing to “do Utica,” the city was visited in 1960 by a Democrat named John Fitzgerald Kennedy, who “did Herkimer,” too.

I – and the people of Utica – await your apology and I invite you to visit to experience for yourself the many wonderful and enjoyable aspects of Utica.

Sincerely,
Joseph A. Griffo
Senator