Constantino Orders 7 News Reporter Out of Election Night Party
The Republican congressional candidate, who was ahead in the 21st District race, used profanity on live television before security escorts removed the journalist.
By Marek Collins ·
Republican candidate Anthony Constantino directed 7 News reporter Garrett Domblewski and a cameraman to exit his election night gathering in Amsterdam, New York, while the candidate addressed supporters on live television. The incident occurred on Tuesday evening as Constantino held a lead over Democratic challenger Blake Gendebien in the race for the 21st Congressional District.
The local news station aired 15 to 16 minutes of the live broadcast to lead its 11 p.m. newscast. During the speech, Constantino thanked President Donald Trump for support, as well as former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani and political strategist Roger Stone. He also characterized the press as the evil news media. The candidate and other speakers on stage used inappropriate language before the network cut its live feed to cover other regional results.
Constantino singled out Domblewski and 7 News anchor Jeff Cole, calling both men a**holes. He also referred to a reporter from a different organization as a f**king a**hole. He then instructed Domblewski to leave the venue and led the crowd in chanting, Kick him out. Five or six security guards physically escorted the reporter out of the building.
As Domblewski was led to the parking lot, Constantino and the attendees continued to chant, F**k the evil media. Domblewski later reported that he had conducted a cordial interview with Constantino earlier in the evening, a segment of which had aired on the 10 p.m. newscast. The reporter stated he was unsure of the specific reason for the sudden request to leave.
The candidate’s campaign had explicitly invited 7 News and other media organizations to the event. A campaign email confirmed the crew’s attendance, stating, Looking forward to seeing you all. Amsterdam is located approximately three hours from Watertown.
Domblewski resumed reporting live from the parking lot immediately after being escorted out. The candidate remained on stage as the crowd continued to cheer. The 21st District race remains competitive, with Constantino currently leading Gendebien in early returns.
The event took place in a venue in Amsterdam, New York. Security personnel managed the exit of the news crew. The broadcast continued with coverage of other local election results.
Source: KCTV5
