A letter to New York Democrats

What does it mean to be a Democrat? That's the question being posed to the party faithful in New York by Matt Castelli, who is best known in the Empire State for his 2022 congressional shellacking at the hands of Rep. Elise Stefanik. The former CIA operative has regrouped in Dutchess County, where there is speculation about a 2027 run for county executive, and is hoping to rebuild his party's brand in New York with input from the county committees. Castelli joined the show to make the case that Democrats have to stand for more than a resistance to President Donald Trump, discussed his political future, and offered some messaging tips for candidates from his party.  And if you enjoy Dispatches from Planet Albany, please leave us a rating and consider becoming a recurring contributor to support the podcast (because we could really use the money).