Three weeks out, we're seeing the consolidation of traditional Democratic coalitions around the state (personal aside: I think we're on the cusp of a system-wide, up-and-down-the-ballot landslide, but I'll expand on that later). Here, for example, is Brian Foley, running against dynamic bundle of energy Caesar Trunzo in the Third, at a rally for women. The accompanying press release lays out the stakes.

More than 20 women, along with elected officials and representatives from Planned Parenthood Hudson Peconic Action Fund and NARAL Pro-Choice America, gathered today to support Brian X. Foley's run for State Senate. This is the inaugural event for a new group of women in Brookhaven and Islip who are coming together to elect Foley. These women were joined by Assemblywoman Ginny Fields, Assemblywoman Pat Eddington, Legislator Kate Browning, and Town Councilwoman Connie Kepert. Planned Parenthood Action Fund and NARAL Pro-Choice NY also endorsed Brian X. Foley for State Senate at this event. "In this election, the choice is clear," said Reina Schiffrin, President/CEO, Planned Parenthood Hudson Peconic Action Fund. "Senator Trunzo is the embodiment of the old Albany – mired in the status quo, entrenched in the past. After almost 40 years, woman of Long Island are hungry for a representative who will fight for them, not against them. Brian Foley will bring the integrity and results that Albany desperately needs." "I am honored to stand with the women of Islip and Brookhaven to proclaim that change is needed now," said Brian X. Foley. "For too long, Caesar Trunzo and his failed majority in Albany have shut out the voices of women and their families, allying instead with corporate interests. I believe that the future begins with the women of this District." Senator Caesar Trunzo has an abysmal voting record on issues affecting families and women. He voted against insurance companies covering mammograms for women over 40, and voted against cervical cancer screenings. He also opposes the Paid Family Leave Act, Pay Equity Act, and voted against expanding Family Health Plus and controlling rising health insurance premiums, which have skyrocketed 67% in the last three years alone.

Meanwhile, up in Rochester, Rick Dollinger just garnered the endorsement of Senator Clinton, and held a rally for women attended by hundreds of supporters.

Hundreds of women gathered at the Village Gate in downtown Rochester this evening to rally in support of Rick Dollinger for State Senate, and to speak out on the issues that have been ignored by State Senate Republicans. Congresswoman Louise Slaughter officially announced her endorsement of Dollinger at the rally, which was also attended by Assemblymember Susan John, City Council Woman Lovely Warren and local representatives from NARAL Pro-Choice New York, Planned Parenthood Advocates of New York and the National Organization for Women’s New York chapter. “I am proud of the fact that our city is home to so many women who are not afraid to raise their voice on the issues that matter most to us as a community,” said Congresswoman Slaughter. “Together, we have fought tirelessly to advocate the rights of women, and we have made historic strides in women’s health across this state and nation. It is shameful that Republicans in Albany have failed to demonstrate leadership that represents the values we share as women, and it only serves as greater evidence that we need Rick Dollinger as our voice in the State Senate.” “I know that Rick Dollinger shares my commitment to the women of Monroe County,” said Assmeblymember Susan John. “He will be a strong voice in the New York State Senate on issues that are important to women and working families. He will champion a woman’s right for equal pay for equal work; ensure our children’s education is fully funded, and that our families have access to affordable healthcare. I will be pleased to work with Rick to help improve the lives of the hardworking families of Rochester.” “NARAL Pro-Choice New York is proud to support Rick Dollinger for New York State Senate,” said Kelli Conlin, President of NARAL Pro-Choice New York. “Mr. Dollinger is the only candidate in this race who supports a woman’s right to access reproductive health care. For too long, the New York State Senate has had an anti-choice majority that has willfully obstructed critical legislation, including a bill to bring comprehensive sex education to our state’s public schools. Electing Mr. Dollinger will help return the Senate to the pro-choice majority that accurately represents New York’s strong pro-choice values.”

What makes me, again personally, really happy about stories like these is this: republicans have an abysmal record on women's issues in this state. If Democrats highlight that, and take appropriate steps to harness voters reactions, we win big.