Constantino kicks 7 News reporter out of election party

Republican candidate Anthony Constantino ordered a 7 News reporter to exit his election night celebration in Amsterdam, New York, on Tuesday. The incident occurred while Constantino, who was leading his Democratic opponent Blake Gendebien for the 21st Congressional District, addressed a live audience.

The 11 p.m. news broadcast carried approximately 15 to 16 minutes of the candidate's speech. During this segment, Constantino thanked President Donald Trump for supporting his campaign. He also acknowledged former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani and political strategist Roger Stone. In the same remarks, he referred to the press as the evil news media.

Constantino singled out 7 News reporter Garrett Domblewski during the event. The candidate called Domblewski and 7 News anchor Jeff Cole names and described a reporter from another organization as a profane insult. He then instructed Domblewski to leave the venue. The crowd joined in a chant demanding the reporter be kicked out. Five or six security guards escorted Domblewski out of the building while the audience chanted additional profanity directed at the media.

Domblewski stated he was unsure why the candidate targeted him specifically. He noted that he had conducted a cordial interview with Constantino earlier that evening, portions of which aired on the 10 p.m. newscast. After being moved outside, Domblewski delivered a live report from the parking lot.

The campaign had invited news outlets to the gathering in Amsterdam, located about three hours from Watertown. Constantino's team confirmed in an email that they expected the 7 News crew, writing that they looked forward to seeing them. The candidate continued to lead Gendebien in the district race as of Tuesday night.