Kate Lisa reports for Johnson Newspaper Corp. about the election between incumbent Democrat Didi Barrett and Republican Dean Michael for the 106th Assembly District that covers most of Columbia and Dutchess counties. Barrett has held the seat since March 2012, is 70, and lives in Claverack. Barrett says she is mostly focused on the COVID-19 pandemic. “In many important ways, the governor has done an excellent job,” she said. “I respect he has a game plan ... but how we move forward with the budget and funding all the important parts to the state... I’m always open to that conversation.” The Republican Michael is 59 and owns Hometown Premier Agency LLC real estate and insurance company in Pleasant Valley. Michael is against the bill that passed the Assembly last year for giving the human papillomavirus vaccine to students. “I was really concerned,” Michael said. “I feel that’s a total violation of what this country was founded on — freedom of choice. I scratch my head in the direction we’re going in.” Read more about these candidates at HudsonValley360.com.