State: New York

MoveOn is Proud to Endorse Laura Gillen for Congress!

Early Life and Education

Laura Gillen grew up in Baldwin, New York, where she volunteered at South Nassau Communities Hospital and Camp Anchor. Her passion for public service was ignited during her time at Georgetown University as a George Baker Scholar, emphasizing leadership and community service. After graduating, Laura volunteered with GMHC during the height of the AIDS epidemic, advocating for those affected by the disease. Her dedication led her to Kolkata, where she worked with St. Mother Teresa.

Laura Gillen’s Personal Life

Laura Gillen is dedicated to her community, continuing to live in Hunterdon County, Lambertville. Her lifelong commitment to public service and her extensive experience in law and local government make her a strong candidate for Congress, poised to bring positive change to New York families.

Professional Career – Laura Gillen

Laura Gillen attended Georgetown Law Center and NYU School of Law, becoming a litigator at Cahill Gordon & Reindel, LLP, where she represented domestic violence victims pro bono. She later joined the Westerman firm in Nassau County. In 2017, Laura became the first Democrat elected as Hempstead Town Supervisor in 112 years, managing a $500 million budget. She focused on reducing waste, corruption, and taxes, making the government more transparent and accountable.

Accomplishments as Hempstead Town Supervisor

As Hempstead Town Supervisor, Laura revitalized infrastructure, addressed public water contaminants, and passed legislation on sexual harassment and veterans’ benefits. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she volunteered with All Hands and Hearts, distributing PPE to local entities. Laura’s leadership extended to her role as an adjunct professor of law at Hofstra University.

Laura Gillen’s Bid for Congress

Laura is running for Congress to address the challenges faced by New York families, aiming to keep families safe, grow the economy, and make Nassau County an affordable place to live and raise a family. She plans to bring her experience in local government to the national stage, focusing on transparency, accountability, and community service. Laura’s campaign has garnered endorsements from labor unions, former Representatives Steve Israel and Carolyn McCarthy, EMILY’s List, and local leaders.

Meet John Mannion

John Mannion, rooted in Central New York, traces his family’s history back to his grandparents’ immigration from Ireland a century ago. Mannion’s father worked at the New York Central Railroad for 42 years, and his mother at the New York Telephone Company. Both John and his spouse, Jen, have dedicated nearly 30 years to teaching, deeply ingrained in the community where they raised their children.

John Mannion’s Career in Education

With a strong commitment to education, Mannion served as an AP Biology and Chemistry teacher at West Genesee and the Syracuse City School District. Frustrated by declining funding and challenging state government decisions, he decided to run for the State Senate to effect change. John Mannion’s tenure as a public-school science teacher shaped their perspective on the importance of supporting education and community development.

John Mannion’s Achievements in State Senate

Elected to the State Senate, John Mannion has a proven record of bipartisan collaboration and impactful legislation. Mannion led the effort to pass the Green Chips legislation, instrumental in bringing Micron to Syracuse, promising 60,000 new high-paying jobs. He also accelerated middle-class tax cuts and provided property tax relief, aiding families in saving money. Additionally, John established the first new police department in New York in half a century at Syracuse airport, enhancing safety and accommodating future growth. His legislative achievements also include protecting women’s rights to make personal healthcare decisions.

Bid for Congress

John Mannion aims to extend his service to Congress, representing Central New York and the Mohawk Valley. Mannion emphasizes the need for a representative who prioritizes the region’s needs and collaborates across party lines to achieve meaningful outcomes. Mannion’s congressional agenda includes creating well-paying jobs, reducing costs for working families, supporting veterans, improving public safety, ensuring world-class education, and upholding women’s rights. Drawing on their success in the State Senate, he pledges to continue delivering results for their community in Congress.