From the May 27, 2009 issue of the Mid Hudson Times. Lewis has served on the Newburgh School District Board of Education for many years.

Lewis 'shocked' by election defeat
By Jessica McAleese

More than one week after learning that he had not been re-elected by voters, Newburgh Enlarged City School District Board of Education President Runston T. Lewis says he is still in a state of shock.

"I was very surprised," said Lewis, who finished fourth in last Tuesday's election to newcomers John Guidice and Nathan Veseley and incumbent Pamela Resch. The lifelong City of Newburgh resident who has spent the past 19 years on the school board blamed his loss on backlash from the layoffs and other measures that the district had to take in order to deal with the slumping economy. He also noted that both the Newburgh Teachers Association (NTA) and the Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA) declined to endorse any of the candidates running in this year's election.

"I met with both groups and I understand they were upset over the layoffs and I guess that was their way of showing it," he said. "But at the same time I don't think they expected me to lose."

Given his long track record, Lewis said it's disappointing and unfair to have to depend on the support of a certain group in order to get elected. He insisted that voters should instead make their decisions based on a candidate's background, qualifications and history of success.

"I've been successful for 19 years," he said. "I've always worked very well with the unions and the administrators to come up with decisions that benefit everybody. I even got a letter from the NTA president that would attest to that. He said he was very sorry about the way things turned out."

Looking ahead, Lewis said he is exploring his options but has yet to decide if he will run for re-election in the future.

"It's hard but I will move ahead," he said. "The district will continue to survive."

NTA President Phil Cordella could not be reached for comment.