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Foul-mouthed mini-Trump Republican Anthony Constantino begs president to free Diddy in unhinged tirade where he threw out a journalist
Anthony Constantino, a Republican who declared victory in a close New York congressional race, used his election night speech to urge President Donald Trump to free Sean “Diddy” Combs. He also insulted journalists and ordered one reporter to leave, drawing criticism from local Republicans. The result matters because Constantino was narrowly ahead in a district that has recently favoured Republicans by wide margins.
With more than 95 per cent of votes counted, Constantino led Democrat Blake Gendebien by 51 per cent to 49 per cent. He lent his campaign $17 million and had spent $14.7 million by mid-October; he made his fortune as chief executive of printing company Sticker Mule. Combs is serving a 50-month federal sentence after being convicted of transportation to engage in prostitution, and Trump has ruled out a pardon. Local Republican figures criticised Constantino’s conduct and campaign approach.
In short
- Anthony Constantino declared victory while narrowly leading in a New York House race.
- He urged Trump to free Sean Combs, despite Trump ruling out a pardon.
- Local Republicans criticised Constantino’s insults towards journalists and political rivals.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters could argue that Constantino’s appeal to Trump and confrontational speech were expressions of political conviction and a desire to challenge institutions he sees as hostile to his cause. In a close race, his willingness to speak bluntly may appeal to voters who value an unfiltered candidate, while his personal campaign spending shows substantial commitment to winning.
The case against
Critics could argue that urging intervention in a criminal sentence after conviction, and ejecting a journalist while insulting the press, show poor judgement and disregard for due process and scrutiny. In a narrowly contested district, such conduct may also undermine confidence in his ability to represent constituents and distract from substantive issues.