New York State Sen. Patty Ritchie, R-Heuvelton, and Assemblyman Marc Butler have endorsed Republican candidate Gary Pasqua for St. Lawrence County District Attorney.

Pasqua is running against Democrat James Monroe for the job of top county prosecutor.

“St. Lawrence County needs a career prosecutor like Gary Pasqua who will bring a strong work ethic and our North Country values to the criminal justice system,” Ritchie said in a news release announcing her endorsement. “I am proud to stand with someone like Gary who will focus on restoring public confidence and bringing justice to victims and their families.”

“I want to thank Senator Ritchie for her support. As District Attorney, I will fight for the hardworking families of St. Lawrence County,” Pasqua said in a news release from Ritchie’s office.

“I don’t often endorse in local elections, but in this case I feel that Mr. Pasqua’s background. Experience and temperament make him the most qualified to serve in this vital public office,” Assemblyman Butler said.

Butler represents the 118th Assembly District, which includes the St. Lawrence County towns of Norfolk, Stockholm, Madrid, Parishville, Pierrepont, Clare, Colton, Clifton and Fine. The district also includes Hamilton, Herkimer and Fulton counties plus part of Oneida County.

Ritchie represents the western half of St. Lawrence County including Ogdensburg, Canton and Gouverneur.