In his official announcement that he is rejoining the race for Troy mayor weeks after suspending his campaign, Republican candidate Tom Reale has made several allegations against Rensselaer County GOP top brass, saying they forced him out of this race.
Reale said Tuesday morning that County Executive Steve McLaughlin, his top aide Rich Crist, and others told him three weeks ago to drop out.
He claims they threatened his career with the state Senate, saying the party wouldn’t back Republican candidates if he remained employed and a mayoral candidate.
McLaughlin has not yet commented despite numerous attempts to reach him following these allegations.
Reale said he re-entered this race, alongside incumbent Patrick Madden and Rodney Wiltshire, to give voters another option.
He said he feels betrayed by his party leadership.
"This was more or less simply 'do this my way or suffer this kind of consequence,' and it had a lasting impact on me for sure," Reale said. "Maybe I was a little bit naive when I got in. Maybe this is the way politics is run."
Reale claims he was told to endorse Rodney Wiltshire.
Spectrum News has reached out to Wiltshire and Mayor Madden for comment.
“From the start, our campaign has focused on my strong record of success, including progress to improve our neighborhoods, repair our finances, upgrade infrastructure, and increase economic development in Troy," Madden said in a statement. "We will continue to deliver our message of progress on important issues to voters, and I remain committed to protecting taxpayers and addressing the needs of our residents.”