Anthony Constantino Pledges $174,000 to Wounded Iraq War Veteran’s Family

Republican congressional candidate Anthony Constantino is gaining attention for his generous commitment to a wounded Iraq War veteran’s family. He announced his plan to donate his entire first year’s congressional salary, totaling $174,000, to the family of Sgt. Eddie Ryan, regardless of the election outcome in New York’s 21st Congressional District.

Constantino, known as the CEO of Sticker Mule, made this announcement on June 10 during a campaign event in Queensbury, New York. He personally handed Ryan’s family a note promising the donation. Local news source The Daily Gazette covered this pledge.

“I planned to give away my entire congressional salary from day one,” Constantino explained to Fox News Digital. “Sgt. Eddie Ryan inspired me to fight harder early in this race.”

Constantino added that his gesture aims to encourage more Americans to contribute towards a better future and inspire others with means to support veterans.

Sgt. Eddie Ryan, a former U.S. Marine Corps sniper, endured severe injuries from friendly fire in Iraq in 2005. He faced two gunshot wounds to the head, resulting in a traumatic brain injury and lasting challenges with mobility and speech.

Constantino first met Ryan and his family earlier this year outside a Republican Committee meeting. Their brief interaction made a deep impact on Constantino.

“Sgt. Ryan is a role model for loving America and staying positive in the face of adversity. He was severely wounded in combat and proudly says he would do it again with a big smile,” Constantino remarked.

Ryan was taken aback by the news. “I’m still floored,” he said upon learning about the pledge, as reported by The Daily Gazette.

In the political landscape, Constantino is challenging state Assembly Member Robert Smullen in the upcoming Republican primary scheduled for June 23. He is vying to succeed Rep. Elise Stefanik in New York’s 21st Congressional District. He has invested millions of his own money into his campaign, positioning it as a fight against the political establishment.

“It’s an opportunity to move the country in a positive direction in a big way,” Constantino stated. “I felt I had no choice but to use my resources to fight for a better future for America.”

Constantino has previously received an endorsement from former President Donald Trump, who praised him as an “America First Patriot.” Trump supported Constantino’s efforts to represent the people of New York’s 21st Congressional District.

Fox News Digital reported Louis Casiano’s contribution to this story. The coverage was written by Sophia Compton, a writer with experience in business reporting on finance, energy, and tourism. She holds a journalism degree from the University of Hawaii at Manoa.