The Chautauqua County Republican Committee and Chautauqua County Conservative Party have voted separately to endorse Jason L. Schmidt as their candidate for Chautauqua County District Attorney in the November election.

Schmidt is an state and federal trial attorney and former Chautauqua County felony prosecutor with an active criminal defense and litigation practice based in Fredonia.

Schmidt received the endorsements as the country began shutting down amid the coronavirus pandemic, effectively placing the run for the office of district attorney on hold as he, and the rest of the world, focused on health and safety.

“This has been a difficult time for all of us,” said Schmidt. “With the current situation in our county and across the country, from the pandemic to the racial and police tensions, it seemed insensitive and tone-deaf to campaign during the recent crises. But the election is less than six months away and I want voters to know they have a critical choice to make come November.”

Although Schmidt has announced his candidacy, he is also keenly aware of the limitations to the campaign process due to coronavirus restrictions and will campaign safely, as he is able to do so. He is available to answer any questions and can be reached by email at jason@jlschmidt-law.com.

“We endorsed Jason because he’s a hard-working guy who rolls up his sleeves and fights in the trenches. He’s experienced and successful – he wins cases,” said County Republican Party Chairman Allan Hendrickson. “That’s why we endorsed him four years ago, and after watching the district attorney’s office struggle to prosecute serious crimes, we’re even more committed to putting a winner in the district attorney’s office. Chautauqua County needs that now more than ever.”

Conservative Party Chairwoman Anna Wilcox added, “We need someone who can bring the fight back to the DA’s Office. The Conservative Party endorsed Jason, just as we did four years ago, because he knows the ins and outs of the criminal justice system and has faced and won many hard cases in his career. Hard work matters, experience matters, and results matter.”

Schmidt emphasized that his approach to the serious law enforcement responsibilities entrusted to the District Attorney is very different from that of the current DA.

“I am a working attorney. I have to take on tough cases and have successes in the courtroom or I wouldn’t have clients. I will bring that commitment and experience to the district attorney’s office,” said Schmidt, “and I look forward to discussing how my approach differs from the current administration in the coming months.”