Candidate Spends 16 Minutes on Air Before Ordering Reporter Out of Party
Anthony Constantino led his 7 News crew to his election night venue, then directed guards to remove them after a live segment.
By Riya Zhao ·
Republican candidate Anthony Constantino ordered a television crew to exit his election night gathering in Amsterdam, New York, after spending 15 to 16 minutes on his campaign's live coverage. The incident occurred while he was thanking supporters and criticizing the press, moments after his campaign had invited the media to attend.
Constantino, who was leading Democratic opponent Blake Gendebien for the 21st Congressional District on Tuesday night, used the airtime to thank President Donald Trump for having his back. He also acknowledged former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani and political strategist Roger Stone. During the same broadcast, he labeled the press the evil news media.
The candidate singled out 7 News reporter Garrett Domblewski and anchor Jeff Cole during the live segment. Constantino used profane language to describe both journalists before directing Domblewski to leave. He led the crowd in a chant asking for the reporter to be kicked out, and five or six security guards escorted Domblewski from the building.
Domblewski stated he did not know what triggered the order to leave. He noted that he had conducted a cordial interview with Constantino earlier in the evening, a portion of which aired during the 10 p.m. newscast. After being moved to the parking lot, Domblewski continued reporting live from outside the venue.
The campaign's communications team was aware of the news crew's presence. In an email sent to the outlet, the team wrote that they were looking forward to seeing everyone. The venue is located in Amsterdam, a roughly three-hour drive from Watertown.
