Standing Up for Mahopac: My Response to a Disturbing Breach of Public Trust: Who is "Jake Thomas"?

I wrote a "letter to the editor" because Mahopac deserves better. As someone who’s lived here for 30 years and raised my family in this community, I was appalled to hear about the alleged conduct of my opponent, Erin Crowley. Integrity and transparency aren’t just campaign buzzwords — they’re the foundation of public service. I invite you to read my letter and consider the kind of leadership we all deserve.

Dear Editor:                                             July 14, 2025

I am deeply troubled by the allegations that Erin Crowley, Putnam County legislator and Congressman Michael Lawler's deputy district director, used a fake name to infiltrate a private Signal group chat and then urged disorderly behavior by members of our community at Congressman Lawler's Town Hall meeting. The actions that have been reported show a shocking lack of integrity.

I am running against Ms. Crowley to represent Mahopac in the Putnam County Legislature. I've lived in this county for 30 years, and my wife and I raised our two sons here. I am a proud member of Local Union 3, with decades of business experience managing large construction projects and achieving results on time and on budget. I entered this race to provide a voice of integrity and transparency in our legislature because I love Mahopac and have a deep commitment to protecting the area and our community. 

I understand that this is a politically divisive time in our country and that party identification feels very important.  At the same time, I believe that on the local level, in Mahopac, we all share similar goals. We want safety and security for our residents, good education and opportunity for our children, and lower taxes. And we want to know that our government officials have integrity and transparency and will work tirelessly toward these goals. Our town deserves better, and I ask for your consideration.

Lenny Harrington

Mahopac, NY