To the Editor:

A primary election is held when two or more individuals from the same political party seek the same office. The winner of the primary election will represent their party on the general election ballot. Registered Republican voters will go to the polls June 24 to choose their candidate for the 21st Congressional District.

Choosing a qualified candidate who understands the issues, is honest, and is able to work with and communicate effectively with those from opposing parties while still maintaining the integrity of their core principles is of prime importance to me I believe that person is Elise Stefanik.

Elise is a bright, charismatic, articulate, knowledgeable millennial who is conversant on the national issues as well as the issues facing the 21st Congressional District. She has experience in the private business sector and in Washington, DC.

I first met Elise in November 2013 when she was traveling the 21st Congressional District to introduce herself to voters. After introducing herself and her basic platform she spent about two hours taking questions on a wide range of topics. Although her depth of knowledge of the issues facing our country was quite evident what really impressed me was she never once tried to spin an answer or evade a question.

Elise's intellect and youthful energy is so uplifting and positive she gives me hope that my children and grandchildren can have a future that offers opportunities for success and not one that is saddled with a mountain of debt. As she has said in her commercial, her generation cannot just complain about the challenges facing our country, her generation also needs to help solve those problems for all of us.

During a recent debate, Elise demonstrated that she is not susceptible to intimidation and can handle public discourse with grace and professionalism. I am absolutely confident that she will fight to protect Fort Drum and ensure our Second Amendment rights are not infringed upon at the federal level. I know that having grown up in a small business family Elise understands how federal regulations and mandates harm small businesses and will fight to reduce those regulations.

It is important that all registered Republican voters take the time to vote on June 24 between the hours of noon and 9 p.m.. Please vote for Elise Stefanik to represent you as the 21st Congressional District Republican candidate in the Nov. 4 general election.

Nancy W. Foster

Louisville