Melé Looks to Challenge Engel on Three Lines in Election

Republican Tony Melé of Ramapo says he has launched a three-county petition drive to secure three lines against 11-term Democrat incumbent U.S. Rep. Eliot Engel in the November election.

"Come November, I will be the Republican challenger against Eliot Engel," said Melé. "I'm the only true conservative and independent candidate in this race."

A Rockland-based businessman, U.S. Army veteran and tea party organizer, Melé, 51, says he has drawn formidable support from regional tea party organizations and local Conservatives throughout the 17^th Congressional District.

Melé calls himself a "Constitutionalist who can deliver a common sense to Congress."

"It's time to stop the tax madness down in Washington," said Melé. "We don't need government over-spending, over-taxing and over-reaching into our lives"

Melé was decorated for valor by the Army, including receiving special recognition awards from the Congress, the U.S. Marshal Service and a presidential appointment as the Selective Service local board member for the Hudson Valley.

In addition to being a leader in the Rockland-based tea party group, Rally for America, Melé is the chairman of the 65^th Honor Task Force of the 65^th Infantry Regiment, known as "Borinqueneers" in recognition of their gallantry in the Korea War.

Melé has launched a campaign website, http://www.meleforcongress.com, and says he  has secured assistance from fundraising groups in Washington, D.C., and Rockland County.

Engel, D-Bronx, has a Rockland office on West Nyack Road in West Nyack. In Rockland, he represents part of Clarkstown (U.S. Rep. Nita Lowey's district includes New City) as well as Ramapo and Orangetown.