The Empire State Pride Agenda, which had pledged to support Sen. Roy McDonald had he continued his campaign, released a statement this afternoon expressing disappointment in the development, but also praised him for his same-sex marriage vote.

ESPA had contributed to McDonald’s primary campaign, including a last-minute $9,500 cash infusion before the September Republican primary.

From Executive Director Lynn Faria:

“On behalf of Empire State Pride Agenda, I would like to extend our deep gratitude to Senator Roy McDonald for his friendship and courage. Just as Senator McDonald stood with the LGBT community in voting for marriage equality last summer, today we stand with him as he makes the difficult decision to leave the race for the 43rd Senate seat.

“Although recent polling suggested that he could have won the general election, Senator McDonald is a man of principle who made the humble decision to step aside in the interest of his party. We respect that decision. However, it’s unfortunate that such a small, extreme faction of the electorate was able to steer the future of the district. New York State has lost a valuable public servant as a result.

“We remain resolute in our belief that the tide of equality cannot be turned back. We thank Senator McDonald and wish him the best as he begins the next chapter of a proud career in service to his neighbors.”

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