HUDSON – The Columbia County Democratic Committee (CCDC) has unanimously endorsed Russell Gonzales, an accomplished funeral director, as their candidate for Coroner. The nominating convention was held in February, according to Columbia County Democratic Committee Chairman Sam Hodge.
“I have a deep commitment to serving our community, and running for Coroner is another way to serve the public and ensure that death investigations are conducted with integrity, compassion, and care,” said Gonzales. “As a licensed funeral director, I am held to high standards of professionalism and ethics. These values are also important in the role of the Coroner. As Coroner, I will be conducting investigations and making determinations that can have a significant impact on families and our community. I take this responsibility very seriously.”
Gonzales began his career in funeral directing in 2006, when he apprenticed for a funeral home, attended the American McCallister Institute of Funeral Service, and is a licensed Funeral Director in New York State. Gonzales has worked at funeral homes in the Hudson Valley and in New York City.
“We were really impressed with Russell,” said Hodge. “Russell is enthusiastic, experienced, and ready on day one to be our next Coroner. The Coroner’s position shouldn’t even be partisan. I think it’s important to have someone with knowledge, training, and experience, regardless of party. Russell will be a great Coroner.”
On Tuesday, March 14, 2023, the Board of Supervisors’ Public Safety Committee is interviewing candidates for an expected vacancy in the Coroner’s office. In addition to running for a full term in November, Gonzales has put his name forward to fill the vacancy. “It’s important we don’t have a skeleton crew in the Coroner’s office,” Hodge said.
