ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) - New York State Police have been asked to investigate threatening online comments directed at state Senate candidate Sara Niccoli, whose Quaker faith prohibits her from reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.
The comments called for Niccoli's death or banishment from the United States. They were posted on a Facebook page that criticized her refusal to say the pledge. The page has since been deleted.
"She is not a patriot," read one of the few comments that did not contain profanity. "She should be thrown out of whatever position she holds. Then put on a terrorist watch list."
Quaker teaching instructs adherents not to swear oaths. Niccoli stands while the pledge is recited but does not participate.
Two local officials from Palatine, Niccoli's hometown, wrote to the State Police and Gov. Andrew Cuomo on Tuesday seeking an investigation. The letter from Town Boardmembers Hank Vandenburgh and Niel Yerdon seeks protection for Niccoli and asks investigators determine who created the Facebook page.
"Due to the heightened political rhetoric and charged atmosphere, these threats must be taken seriously," the letter reads.
The State Police issued a statement saying "we are aware of the matter" and the agency is reviewing the request.
Niccoli, a Democrat and currently the Palatine town supervisor, said Wednesday she believes the attacks were orchestrated by her opponent in the upstate Senate race, Republican Sen. George Amedore of Rotterdam.
"This is coming from his backers and it's dangerous," said Niccoli, whose family operates a farm in Montgomery County. "It incites violence. It oppresses religious freedom. I'm not going to be bullied."