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Dutchess County GOP Chairman Michael McCormack has filed a complaint against Democratic County Court Judge candidate Kara Gerry with the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct. The complaint alleges that Gerry violated campaign rules by participating in political activities with non-judicial candidates. According to Mid-Hudson News, McCormack claims Gerry's involvement in joint campaign billboards and fundraisers with non-judicial candidates, sponsored by the Dutchess County Democratic Committee, breaches judicial conduct rules.
The complaint highlights that Gerry's name and likeness were used in connection with political organizations, which is prohibited under 22 NYCRR §100.5(A)(1)(d). Additionally, Gerry allegedly attended a fundraiser hosted by the Fishkill Democratic Committee, which promoted multiple Democratic candidates, including non-judicial ones. Judicial candidates are typically restricted from such political gatherings.
Gerry, who is running against incumbent Republican Judge Edward McLoughlin, denied the allegations, stating, "I have not endorsed any candidate for office, and my campaign has carefully complied with all judicial campaign ethics rules." The Commission on Judicial Conduct, responsible for reviewing complaints against judges and candidates, typically takes several months to complete investigations. Decisions can take over a year to be released.