Farrell Hall at SUNY Delhi hosted a record number of Democrats for their annual fundraiser dinner

DELHI — The Delaware County Democratic Committee’s annual fundraiser dinner returned to SUNY Delhi this past Saturday, drawing at least 200 attendees for an evening that focused more on celebration than division, while still acknowledging the challenges facing the party and the broader political landscape.

The night began with a lively cocktail hour, where attendees mingled with local and statewide figures. New York State Attorney General Letitia James stood out for her approachable presence, taking time to speak with guests and pose for group photos. Her easy engagement with the crowd helped set an energetic and welcoming tone for the evening.

Committee Chair Kathleen Hayek led an impressive program that highlighted both the accomplishments and the people behind the local Democratic effort. She presented the organization’s 2026 Democrat of the Year award to Kim Van Atta, recognizing what she described as his unwavering commitment to the party and its candidates. Calling him someone who is “always there when you need him,” Hayek pointed to his reliability and willingness to step forward as defining qualities.

A nurse by profession and longtime committee member, Van Atta has played a critical role behind the scenes. He has helped navigate complex campaign finance rules, supported new candidates, and strengthened grassroots outreach efforts. His analytical skill, technical knowledge, and dedication to expanding access to the political process were cited as key reasons for the honor.

In a new category introduced this year, the committee presented its first Citizen of the Year award to Middletown Council member Robin Williams. Recognized for her energy and hands-on approach to problem solving, Williams has quickly emerged as one of the county’s most impactful new leaders.

She was credited with launching the HUB in Margaretville, a community-centered space that connects residents with essential services. In her remarks, Williams described community progress as an interconnected effort, emphasizing that meaningful change comes from consistent, local action. Sharing the honor with what she called the “quiet, essential workers” of the community, she reinforced a message that defined her speech: that showing up, in whatever role one can play, is what ultimately builds something better.

As the evening progressed, speakers turned their attention to the broader political landscape. Congressman Josh Riley delivered an energetic and at times combative address, framing the upcoming election as a high-stakes contest. Positioning himself against former President Donald Trump’s continued influence and significant outside spending, which he said could reach $300 million in battleground districts, Riley told the crowd, “I’m not scared of him. I have all of you. We don’t need him. We have each other.”

He emphasized the importance of grassroots engagement in a district he described as one of the most competitive in the country, stating, “The battleground is right here… in one of the most competitive House districts in the country.” Underscoring the impact of close races, he added, “One vote, one seat, that’s the difference,” urging supporters to stay focused on turnout and organizing efforts.

Attorney General James followed with remarks that blended statewide concerns with local priorities. Framing her message around civic responsibility, she reminded attendees that “we, the people, all of us” must remain engaged at a time when many feel disillusioned. James ardently expresses unwavering support for the LGBTQ folks in New York, emphasizing standing behind the trans community as she highlighted the attacks by republicans nationally and locally in the state. She also pointed to tangible impacts in rural regions like the Catskills, including opioid settlement funding and agricultural investment. Highlighting her commitment to farmers, she said, “I will never forget farmers,” drawing strong applause from the audience.

State Senate candidate Michele Frazier described her campaign as a “thorough job interview,” emphasizing the importance of listening to voters across the district. She pointed to housing, healthcare, and equitable access to resources as key issues, while also noting increased engagement from residents. Frazier highlighted a shift within the party toward better understanding rural concerns, including the challenges faced by farmers, and spoke about initiatives such as a districtwide book club focused on rural issues.

Drawing on her background in criminal justice, she also addressed the opioid crisis, advocating for treatment-based approaches rooted in mental health and trauma rather than incarceration. She said voters are increasingly responding to a message grounded in shared local struggles.

The evening also underscored the collaborative effort behind the event itself. Judith Maguire of Roxbury, who has helped organize similar gatherings, credited the work of many volunteers, noting, “It was a whole team. Cindie Smart really did the bulk of the heavy lifting. Letitia is so inspiring. Just a solid person all around. I was at a fundraiser in the morning for her and had a chance to actually talk with her. I feel so fortunate to have this role within the community where I can try to make a difference.”

For Hayek, the return to SUNY Delhi carried special significance. “Saturday night’s dinner was our first time back at SUNY Delhi since 2019, so it felt like a homecoming,” she said, expressing optimism about the energy in the room.

She described the event as a milestone for the organization, adding, “The evening was a huge, record breaking success, filled with celebration as we recognized all that we’ve accomplished and the dedicated community members who have lead us in getting it done. Tickets were sold out and we filled the beautifully appointed dining hall to capacity with 200 guests.”

Looking ahead, Hayek emphasized the momentum generated by the night, noting, “Our keynote speakers were nationally recognized leaders of democracy and each delivered powerfully inspiring speeches. We broke our record on attendance and donations. We are now energized and looking forward to speaking with voters this summer and winning elections this fall.”

While she stopped short of predicting a political blue wave, Hayek made clear that the committee sees the evening as a turning point. The focus now, she suggested, is on building from that energy as Democrats prepare for the months ahead.

With a strong turnout and a program centered on recognition and connection, the fundraiser served less as a forum for debate and more as a reflection of a party aiming to strengthen its local foundation while preparing for a competitive election season. For those unable to make this event, an additional fundraiser for the Democrats will be on Saturday June 13th, 3 – 6pm at Union Grove Distillery in Arkville. Performances by musicians Adam Ippolito, Andy Cahill, and Loren Daniels also featuring a silent auction of works by local artists.