By KATIE NOWAK ROBERTS
Journal Record News Service
@knowak_record

The state Independence Party has announced its endorsement of Rep. Chris Gibson, R-Kinderhook, for re-election this year in what could be a new 19th Congressional District that would include most of Dutchess County and all of Columbia, Greene, Ulster, Sullivan and Delaware counties, among others.

The issue of redistricting New York's state legislative and congressional districts is currently in federal court. A new 19th Congressional District has been proposed by a special federal magistrate.

Gibson, who won his seat in 2010, currently represents the 20th district. The Independence Party previously backed Gibson’s opponent, incumbent Scott Murphy, during the 2010 election.

State Independence Party Chairman Frank MacKay said in a press release that Gibson "has been an effective, energetic and independent representative during his first term of office," and that his willingness to deviate from party leadership on certain issues set him apart from his fellow members of Congress. Gibson was recently rated by a Washington Post survey as being among the most independent Republicans in the House of Representatives, most notably supporting development of rural broadband networks, and, in a break with GOP leadership, the saving of a payroll tax deduction.

MacKay said these actions and others pleased his party.

"What impresses me is that Chris Gibson has put the people ahead of the political powers in Washington," MacKay said. "He is concerned with doing what is right for his district, and … working for us in Washington to help revitalize our country and our state, … demonstrating real vision and courage in dealing with important issues.

"The IPNY looks forward to providing support for Congressman Gibson, including in a reconfigured district, and seeing Chris continue his good work for the people of New York state and his district."

Gibson said Sunday that we was humbled to receive the Independence Party’s support, and said it’s given his reelection campaign a significant boost. The congressman won his seat by a 23,000-vote margin, he said, and he expected that securing the Independence line to increase that margin.

"We’ve been working very hard to grow the economy, move back towards a balanced budget and to protect our freedoms and exceptional ways of life, and these are all goals that are embraced by the Independence Party," Gibson said. "So I welcome our teamwork as we go forward to advance these goals. … We are very excited and honored to have this endorsement."

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