Jean Lapper Takes on Incumbent Republican Dan Stec for NYS Senate

"Hi, Jean Lapper I'm running for NYS Senate. I want to ensure that everyone has access to reproductive healthcare, as well, as I want to protect the environment. I want to make sure that we fully fund childcare and education, and to make it easier for families to live.

Most importantly what I want to say is once I'm elected, I will continue to travel around the whole district. I live in the most southern part of the district, and I will continue travel to here, to hear firsthand what the needs are of this community. And to figure out how we can work together."

Jean Lapper stopped in on Friday, October 28, 2022, to talk to Indian Time Newspaper. In late July, Queensbury Democrat Jean Lapper announced she would challenge Republican New York state Senator Dan Stec of the 45th district. Lapper, a CPA by trade who has never held elective office, has been campaigning across the district, which extends across much of the north and northeastern section of New York.

Lapper grew up in long island to a family of seven. She knew firsthand what hardships mean when her father lost their family business. Being the oldest of the family, she bore the brunt of family responsibilities when her mother returned to the workforce. Lapper does a strong background in grassroots work sitting on several boards, such as a local nursing home.

Lapper said, "I learned early on the value of a good education and of having good public schools. I attended SUNY college and went on to open my own business. I knew early I wanted to be able to take care of myself by getting an education and working. I have a responsibility to take care of myself."

Lapper talked about her campaign experiences, meeting everyone from school teachers young mothers, and the elderly saying the senate needs to provide support to mayors, town supervisors and local elected officials.

Lapper said, "They said the most frustrating thing is local elected officials ask for money, and small amounts of money and they always hear - I'm not in the majority. He (Stec) doesn't even try. This is a job. you must work for your job. I plan to continue to do that."

She continued, "People want to be heard. We have a lot of very independent minded people. The North Country has always been considered a very independent minded area. And people are happy to tell you what's on their mind and when you listen to them you can connect with them. That's all that they want. They want to be heard. I don't see anyone fighting for this area. I don't see anyone even asking for money for this area for health care, childcare, infrastructure."

Democrat Jean Lapper faces Republican New York State Senator Dan Stec, who is seeking his second term, in the November general election.