Phil Steck for Congress

Background:

I am a civil rights and labor attorney, an Albany County Legislator and Chair of the Colonie Democratic Committee.

As a lawyer, a legislator, and as a community activist, I have worked to bring about real change. In my private law practice I have represented employees who have been mistreated in the workplace. In the Town of Colonie, we organized at the grassroots level and beat one of New York State's most entrenched, best funded Republican political machines.

Goals:

I believe that Congress should represent our interests, not powerful lobbying interests. We need progressive Democrats in Congress who are willing to stand up and fight for important issues that have been stalled by the status quo.

My political background is community-based, and I think now, more than ever, that's the approach we need in Washington.

Issues:

We need to bring our troops home from Iraq immediately.

I strongly support a single-payer system of health care, known as "Medicare for All." I believe that universal health care will greatly improve the economic situation of millions of Americans.

I support imposing a windfall profit tax on oil companies to fight against the escalating cost of gasoline, and using that money to invest in developing a real national energy policy that emphasizes environmentally-friendly alternative fuels.

Grassroots Support:

I am not surrounded by an army of lobbyists, and our campaign is rooted in the community.

We are actively supported by over 50 local elected officials, and have a well organized and committed volunteer organization that is energizing our campaign.

While we will raise the money needed to run a successful modern campaign, our main focus has been door-to-door, house parties and meet-ups, and communicating via our campaign website.

DFA Values:

I am a true progressive candidate and would seek to join the Progressive Caucus in Congress.

Like many Americans, I was inspired by Governor Dean's candidacy in 2004 and was proud to organize locally. I am proud to be a member of DFA and my local chapter, Democracy for Hudson Mohawk Region. In Colonie, we instituted the neighborhood network to recruit and train local volunteers and strengthen our local Democratic Party.