Tales from the Coup

The 2009 attempt by Republicans to take over the state Senate led to more than a month of legislative chaos that changed the landscape of politics in New York for years to come. As the 10th anniversary of the stunning power grab approaches, you’ll hear stories and analysis from the reporters and insiders who covered the crisis as well as the elected officials who lived through it. The program will be moderated by David Lombardo, Times Union Capitol bureau reporter.

Panelists:

John McArdle served as a long-time spokesman for four different New York State Senate Republican leaders during his 30-year tenure in state government. He retired in 2010 and is currently with Capitol Communications.

Karen DeWitt is the Capitol Bureau Correspondent for New York State Public Radio. She has covered state politics and government for nearly 30 years and is a regular contributor to the statewide public television program, New York Now.

Morgan Hook is a former news anchor and reporter and served as communications director for Gov. David Paterson. He is now a managing director for SKDKnickerbocker, a public affairs and political consulting firm in Albany.

The event is sponsored by RE/MAX Platinum.

Agenda:

8 a.m.: Doors open/check-in

8:30 a.m.: Program begins

Tickets: $15, include light breakfast snacks and coffee by Mazzone Hospitality.

Questions? Contact Shannon Fromma at (518) 454-5479 or sfromma@timesunion.com