RENSSELAER COUNTY, N.Y. â The Rensselaer County Republican Committee recently unanimously endorsed a slate of candidates recently, including Rensselaer County Executive Steve McLaughlin, Rensselaer County Clerk Frank Merola, members of the County Legislature and candidates for local office. Candidates and members were enthusiastic about the upcoming elections, including a number of new additions to the ticket. In the days before the committee meeting, Republicans welcomed two town supervisors who have previously run with Democrats. The party also endorsed a fusion ticket for races in Troy, further expanding a base of support. - Advertisement - âWe are looking forward to a successful election cycle, and believe our message of lower taxes, more opportunity and protection of freedoms and security will especially resonate with voters this year,â Chairman John Rustin said.