CALLICOON – The Sullivan County Conservative Party gathered Saturday evening at the Villa Roma for its annual fundraiser dinner, combining campaign remarks with a tribute to late Chairman Ed Magilton.

The evening opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence before Assemblyman Chris Tague addressed attendees.

“I am America’s Assemblyman Chris Tague—hopefully soon to be your senator,” Tague told the crowd, signaling his campaign for the 51st State Senate seat.

Tague thanked the Sullivan County Conservative Committee for its support and highlighted his legislative record in Albany.

“My lifetime record in the State Assembly is 96,” he said, referencing conservative scorecards.

He also encouraged support for State Sen. Peter Oberacker’s congressional campaign and asked attendees to pray for Assemblyman Brian Maher, who is currently deployed with his military unit.

While campaign themes were present, much of the evening centered on remembering Magilton, who passed away Jan. 31.

Assemblywoman Paula Kay presented a proclamation honoring Magilton’s “lifetime of incredible service to our community.”

Speakers from both sides of the aisle reflected on Magilton’s work with local fire departments, civic organizations and his leadership within the county Conservative Party.

Beyond the podium, attendees discussed the practical influence of the Conservative Party in Sullivan County elections.

“We’re really a purple county,” said Lori Orestano-James, Democratic State Committeewoman, describing a political landscape shaped less by rigid party identity and more by turnout and cross-endorsement patterns.

Orestano-James described the Conservative line as “a very purple endorsement,” noting that the party has historically backed candidates from both major parties, making its support influential in close races.

Bill Liblick, Democratic State Committeeman and Liberty Town Democratic Chair, characterized the Conservative ballot line as strategic in local contests.

“It’s a second line for people to run on,” Liblick said, explaining that some voters will “drop down” and cast their vote on the Conservative row.

As the 2026 election cycle approaches, Saturday’s dinner reflected both the personal relationships that often define Sullivan County politics and the continuing role of the Conservative ballot line in shaping local outcomes.