Highland Current Letter to the Editor

Putnam sheriff

I’m not someone who usually writes letters like this, but I feel strongly about Larry Burke and what his leadership could mean for Putnam County as sheriff.

I first met Larry through community work years ago. I’ve watched him show up for people, in schools, in town meetings and in everyday life. He’s honest, fair and loyal, the kind of leader who earns respect quietly, without ever demanding it.

Larry’s a Bronx kid like me, and we speak the same language. But what’s remarkable is that he speaks everyone’s language. He connects with people from all walks of life and listens with genuine interest. When he speaks, people trust him because he means what he says.

At his recent campaign fundraiser, I came out of my self-imposed “photography retirement” and volunteered to capture the night. The crowd said it all: People from every corner of the county, with different backgrounds and political views, gathered to support him. That unity is rare these days.

Larry is running as an independent, funding much of his campaign himself. He’s not backed by a party machine, but by people who’ve seen his integrity up close. He’s about community, families and doing what’s right. I would trust him with my children, and I don’t say that lightly.

Larry Burke is good people. And he’s good for Putnam. I encourage everyone to meet him, talk to him and see for themselves the kind of person and leader he is before the Nov. 4 election.

Caitlin Chadwick, Cold Spring