John Kerry’s campaign for Central New York’s support in the Democratic primary next week kicked off Saturday in Syracuse, but dismal turnout and the absence of the main speaker, Theresa Heinz Kerry, dampened the event.

About 50 people turned out to hear speeches by C. Virginia Fields, the president of the borough of Manhattan, and retired Lt. Gen. Claudia Kennedy, who emphasized the importance of women and laid-off workers in the upcoming election. Heinz Kerry was said to have an eye infection, which required medical attention.

‘The important thing is that today, New York is in play about who is to become the next president of the United States,’ said Walt Dixie, founder of the Alliance Network, a minority advocacy group. ‘We have to stand together as a diverse community of Latinos and African Americans, and get out the vote.’

Subsequent speakers echoed that sentiment, focusing on the loss of local jobs to overseas markets, programs like No Child Left Behind and concern for community youth who lack education and job opportunities.

‘When you have people in the top positions that care about what we care about, you will see a difference,’ Fields said. ‘Every problem that people experience throughout the country, we’ve got it here in New York state.’

Theresa Heinz Kerry’s absence was excused by the campaigners, who said that the crowd’s response was still positive.

‘We’re all disappointed, but we understand it: she’s ill, and it’s important that she gets healthy and is in it for the long run,’ Dixie said. ‘Anytime one or two people come out I appreciate it. It only takes a few of us to come out and be committed.’

New York accounts for 236 of the 1,151 delegates that will be awarded on ‘Super Tuesday’ elections next week. Nomination by the Democratic party requires candidates to garner 2,162 of 4,322 votes nationally.

John Kerry currently has 613 to Edwards’ 192, making next week’s vote a pivotal one in the nomination process.

‘It’s the first time in a long time that CNY is a central player in the presidential race,’ said Joe Rossi, vice chairman of the Onondaga Democratic committee. ‘It’s unprecedented.’

Lessie Newton, who works at Syracuse University’s law school and followed John Kerry’s campaign to New Hampshire in support, was excited about the rally and John Kerry’s platform.

‘It’s promising. I just hope that he gets (the nomination), so we can get some jobs here,’ said Newton, who works with city youth. ‘My main concern is trying to help kids get jobs.’

John Kerry spoke yesterday in Rochester rally, and Edwards is scheduled to speak there Wednesday.

Published on February 22, 2004 at 12:00 pm