Two Democratic lawyers are preparing to challenge State Assemblyman Robert Castelli, a Republican, for the 89th District seat in November.
Jeremiah Frei-Pearson and David Buchwald, both residents of White Plains, have said that they intend to run as Democrats in the fall and unseat Mr. Castelli, whose district includes Lewisboro, Bedford, Pound Ridge, Mount Kisco, New Castle, North Castle, Harrison and White Plains.
Mr. Frei-Pearson is a John Jay High School graduate who works as a public interest lawyer for the White Plains law firm of Meiselman, Denlea, Packman & Eberz, he said in a press release this week.
Mr. Frei-Pearson said that he and his wife, a Fox Lane graduate, had "incredible opportunities" growing up in Westchester, but that current conditions are making it difficult for the area to continue providing those opportunities.
"Unfortunately," he said, "times are tough, and there is a real risk that the community we grew up in may not be able to provide the same opportunities to the next generation of children or to our parents as they grow older. I am running for Assembly because I want every child, and everyone, to have the same opportunities that I had."
To "revitalize the region," Mr. Frei-Pearson released a six-point plan that includes reducing unfunded mandates from Albany; creating jobs and supporting local businesses; opposing hydro-fracking; supporting marriage equality and a woman's right to choose; implementing campaign finance reform; and supporting public schools, parks and playgrounds.
Mr. Buchwald works in the tax department of the law firm of Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP, he said today. He is a member of the White Plains Common Council "and has been an advocate for the environment, senior citizens, and enhanced budget scrutiny."
Mr. Buchwald, who grew up in Larchmont and attended Mamaroneck public schools, told today that he is running because he has been committed to issues of policy and public service for a long time.
"I've been involved in my community," he said. "I've always had an interest in public service. I very much enjoy being able to help people and give people a sense that their government is responsive and providing the sorts of services that people in these difficult times need and are looking for."
Mr. Buchwald said that he sees government as "playing a positive role in people's lives, not as a barrier that gets in the way."
He emphasized marriage equality, a woman's right to choose and unfunded mandate relief as important issues that he would try to advocate for if elected.
Mr. Castelli, a Goldens Bridge resident, has served the 89th District since winning a special election in February 2010.
