Candidate orders reporter out at party

Republican Anthony Constantino ordered a television reporter to leave his election night party in Amsterdam, New York, on Tuesday night. The incident occurred while Constantino was leading Democratic opponent Blake Gendebien in the race for the 21st Congressional District.

The 7 News crew was invited to the event by Constantino’s campaign. The team had previously conducted a cordial interview with the candidate earlier in the evening. That interview aired as part of the 10 p.m. newscast.

Constantino addressed the crowd during the 11 p.m. news broadcast. He thanked President Donald Trump for supporting him. He also acknowledged former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani and political strategist Roger Stone.

During the address, Constantino criticized what he called the evil news media. He and other speakers on stage used profanity before the live broadcast ended to cover other regional results.

Constantino singled out 7 News reporter Garrett Domblewski. He called Domblewski and 7 News anchor Jeff Cole a**holes. He also used similar language for a reporter from another organization.

The candidate instructed Domblewski to leave the building. The crowd joined in a chant of Kick him out. Five or six security guards escorted the reporter outside. As he was led away, the group chanted F**k the evil media.

Domblewski did not know what caused the candidate to order his removal. He reported live from the parking lot after the event. Amsterdam is about a three-hour drive from Watertown.