Rick Karlin is reporting at Capitol Confidential on the ongoing effort by a group of secessionists trying to get part of upstate to break away from the existing state of New York. Karlin writes that while the idea of separating upstate and downstate is not a new one, the notion has gained momentum with the banning of fracking and passage of the SAFE Act. Proponents want to either join Pennsylvania or establish a new state called New Amsterdam. The Pennsylvania option would require the approval of both the Pennsylvania and New York legislatures, as well as the U.S. Congress. The creation of New Amsterdam could be accomplished through the state Constitutional Convention process. Supporters say succession is about reclaiming economic opportunities and restoring liberties. A rally in support of succession will be held in Bainbridge, Chenango County, Sun., Aug. 30. Organizations resented at the rally will include Americans for Restoring the Constitution, Oath Keepers, Tri-County Tea Party and We the People of New York Inc. Read the full story at Capitol Confidential, a Times Union blog.