Interview: New York Gubernatorial GOP Candidate Lee Zeldin speaks with local press during visit to Lewis County Fair

LOWVILLE- Only hours after being attacked during a speech in Fairport, NY Thursday, New York's GOP Gubernatorial Candidate Lee Zeldin threw the state's cashless bail laws under the bus after his alleged attacker was released on his own recognizance.

"I've been long calling for an end to New York's cashless bail law and I'm only going to advocate it stronger than ever," Rep. Zeldin told the local press during his visit Friday to the Lewis County Fair.

He began a tour Thursday, with a schedule that was aimed to take him to events and speeches all over.  

During a campaign event towards Rochester, Zeldin was approached by a man who lunged after him, wielding a sharp weapon. Fortunately, Zeldin managed to grip the attacker's wrists long enough to allow security teams to tackle and apprehend the suspect. 

David Jakubonis, 43, was originally arrested at the event and charged with attempted assault in the second-degree, according to CNN.

He was then released under regulations of New York's bail reform law, but; was arrested again Saturday and charged with assaulting a member of Congress with a dangerous weapon, which is a federal offense, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.  

Zeldin has other issues he aims to tackle if elected Governor this November, but bail reform he says now is at the top of his list after enduring an experience far too many have faced since cashless bail became law in New York. 

Following the attack, Zeldin continued with his scheduled tour, which included visits to the North Country. While he was at the 201st annual Lewis County Fair, the Congressman mingled throughout the grounds and seemed to embrace the fair spirit. Joining his presence was former Gubernatorial Candidate and son of former New York City Mayor - Andrew Giuliani. 

Be sure to listen to our latest on-air segment with Lee Zeldin while he spoke to the local press:

Image by Brian Trainor.