NEW YORK’S 51ST SENATE DISTRICT  — Facing off in this year’s New York State 51st Senatorial District are incumbent Peter Oberacker (R) and challenger Michele Frazier (D).

The 51st District – which is approximately the size of the State of Connecticut – has a population of nearly 320,885 residents as of 2020 census. It includes all or parts of nine counties, namely Broome, Chenango, Delaware, Herkimer, Otsego, Schoharie, Sullivan and Ulster counties.

The Democrat talked with both candidates on topics relevant to Sullivan County and NY-51 as a whole.

Here are brief summaries of their responses so that voters can see where they stand before the November 5th, Election Day.

Proposition One

This will be located on the reverse side of the ballot for all voters. It deals with codifying gender-based rights and protections within the New York State Constitution.

 Senator Oberacker opposes Proposition 1, citing potential unintended consequences that could harm women’s sports integrity, religious freedoms, and parental rights.

“I’m committed to protecting the integrity of women’s sports and the autonomy of parents while upholding equal rights without compromis,” states Oberacker. “Proposition 1 goes too far, potentially infringing on religious freedoms and parental rights in ways that are unacceptable to many New Yorkers.”

According to Oberacker, the vague language creates risks to privacy and fairness, potentially impacting parental decisions and affecting children’s well-being.

According to Frazier, Proposition 1 in the New York Constitution aims to ensure community members feel welcomed and included. Frazier, who has two children with special needs, supports this proposition, citing personal experiences of a struggling son and a thriving son with support from school and community. 

“We all know and care for someone who hasn’t always felt welcomed, like they belong,” stated Fraizer. 

Cashless Bail

Considering the recent past in January 2022, both candidates are aware of the backyard consequences of cashless bail, including the death of Forestburgh Fire Fighter William “Billy” Steinberg Jr. (37), who died as a result of a fire, deemed arson, which was set by a man who was realeased  by cashless bail in New York State.

Oberacker states that he is a vocal opponent of New York’s “dangerous bail laws”, arguing that they create a cycle of crime, burden communities, and undermining public safety. He supports law enforcement and the desire for safer neighborhoods.

“I also believe our judges should have the discretion to keep dangerous criminals off the streets and protect public safety,” said Oberacker.

As a criminal justice professor, Frazier said she believes in a just and equitable system for communities. 

According to her, the previous bail system disproportionately affected at-risk populations before they were found guilty, leading to job loss and housing jeopardy.

While frustration may arise for law enforcement, she supports a system based on innocence until proven guilty and will work with them to maintain justice.

Firematics and OSHA

The proposed changes to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) involving firematics systems, practices, and rules are a major concern for all local, volunteer-run fire departments in New York State. It is particularly clear that many fire departments in Sullivan County would not be able to fully support such reforms.

Oberacker says that as a firefighter and first responder he advocates for tailored training standards for volunteer departments, avoiding overreaching OSHA regulations that may hinder recruitment and retention in rural areas. 

Oberacker states that he is  committed to ensuring safety standards are effective and achievable without burdening volunteers.

Frazier states that firefighters play a crucial role in maintaining community safety, but they also face unique challenges in rural areas. 

She firmly believes that new requirements, while intended to improve fire prevention and treatment strategies, place significant burdens on volunteer fire departments.

Frazier believes advocates should speak up for continued training and upgrades to protect these departments from potential service cuts in smaller communities.