TOWN OF WAPPINGER – Incumbent Wappinger Town Supervisor Dick Thurston intends to run a Republican primary to retain his position. Thurston lost the support of the town’s Republican Committee last week when the committee endorsed Republican Dutchess County Legislator Joey Cavaccini as the Republican candidate for town supervisor.
Asked about not getting the endorsement from his party, Thurston told Mid-Hudson News, “I intend to carry the message to the voters all the way to November and let the people, not the politicians decide.” Sources have told Mid-Hudson News that Cavaccini received 22 votes while only five committee members chose Thurston.
Thurston said his accomplishments are many in the town. “I will continue to expand upon my exemplary record of preserving and protecting our environment, fiscal responsibility, keeping taxes low, and striving for sustainable development, especially along Route 9,” he said.
“I rely on data, facts, experience, successes, and hard work, not rumors, lies, and false information originating from behind closed doors,” the embattled supervisor said.
Former Republican Town of Wappinger Supervisor Barbara Gutzler denounced the committee decision and said she is supporting Thurston. “He has proven himself to be a forward thinker, a problem solver, and one who has maintained fiscal stability in the town.” She also said that Thurston “understands government, the budgeting process, the town’s comprehensive plan, and the laws that govern the towns.”
