Reporter escorted out of Republican candidate’s party in Amsterdam

A reporter for 7 News was removed from a political event in Amsterdam, New York, after a candidate asked him to leave during a live broadcast. The incident occurred while Republican congressional candidate Anthony Constantino addressed supporters at his election-night party. The candidate was leading his Democratic opponent, Blake Gendebien, in the race for the 21st Congressional District at the time.

The event took place in Amsterdam, a city located about three hours from Watertown. Constantino’s campaign had invited local news outlets, including 7 News, to attend. In an email sent to the media, the campaign team stated it was looking forward to seeing them. The news crew arrived and conducted an interview with Constantino earlier in the evening, with portions of that conversation airing on the 10 p.m. newscast.

The tension rose during the 11 p.m. news broadcast, which featured 15 to 16 minutes of Constantino’s live speech. While thanking President Donald Trump and former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani, the candidate also criticized what he called the evil news media. As the speech continued, Constantino and others on stage began using profanity. The broadcast crew remained on the scene until they switched to cover other regional election results.

Constantino then singled out 7 News reporter Garrett Domblewski. He called Domblewski and 7 News anchor Jeff Cole a**holes. He also used a similar phrase to describe a reporter from another organization. Following these remarks, Constantino ordered Domblewski to leave the stage area. The crowd joined in a chant asking to kick him out. Five or six security guards escorted the reporter out of the building while the audience chanted further profanity directed at the media.

Domblewski later said he was unsure what specific action triggered the candidate’s decision. He noted that he had conducted a cordial interview with Constantino before the speech. After being escorted to the parking lot, Domblewski delivered a live report from outside the venue. The incident occurred on Tuesday night, marking a distinct moment in the final hours of the 21st Congressional District race.