6th SD: Carlow stumbles on the campaign trail

Plainview store owner Francesca Carlow, a Democrat, had a bad case of newcomer jitters at a campaign forum Wednesday night at the East Meadow Library.

The first question was whether the candidates supported the creation of an independent panel to redraw the boundary lines of Assembly, Senate and Congressional districts.

Her opponent in the 6th SD, state Sen. Kemp Hannon (R-Garden City) answered first and answered clearly. He had been at a news conference earlier in the day in Mineola with former NYC Mayor Edward Koch to support that and other reforms, he told the audience of about 50 people.

Then it was Carlow’s turn and she delivered a pause-filled response: “I would definitely be in support of a, aah, an independent, aah, redistricting. (long pause) I feel that’s the only way to promote transparency and to, um, (long pause.”

Loud whisper in the audience: “She doesn’t know.”

Carlow: “I do know.” (Crowd laughs)

Carlow: “I understand redistricting and how vital it is to all of us. The problem is that the career politicians in Albany are constantly voted in because these lines that are drawn consistently to map out the best for the people that are incumbent. Unless we take a stand and get rid of incumbents, voting them out, our voice will not be heard. A quick answer: I definitely do support redistricting.”

It did not get better with the second answer, as she once again struggled.

“Relax!” came a voice from the audience.