Press release/provided photo
BATAVIA, NY – Diana Kastenbaum, former CEO of Pinnacle Manufacturing Company, Inc., and longtime
community advocate, today announced her candidacy for the United States House of Representatives in
New York’s 24th Congressional District in 2026.
Kastenbaum brings a unique combination of business leadership, educational work, community
organizing experience, and deep roots in rural New York to her campaign. As one of the few women
owners and CEOs of tool and die casting companies in North America, she most recently led Pinnacle
Manufacturing for the last decade before selling the family business in 2023.
“Throughout my career, I’ve focused on building businesses, strengthening communities, and fighting for
our neighbors and families particularly here in rural New York,” said Kastenbaum. “I’ve seen how
neighbors show up for neighbors, and when one of us struggles, we all step up. I’ll bring that same heart
and spirit to Washington.”
Kitchen Table Issues for Rural Communities
Kastenbaum’s campaign centers on what she calls “kitchen table issues” that directly impact rural
families across NY-24. Through organizing and participating in over five town halls since March 2025, she
has identified key concerns including protecting Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, preserving rural
healthcare infrastructure, supporting veterans’ services, maintaining educational funding, and
addressing manufacturing and agricultural workforce challenges.
“Our rural hospitals and nursing homes depend on Medicaid funding to serve our communities,”
Kastenbaum explained. “Our farmers need workers who are willing to do the essential work of feeding
America. Our veterans deserve the services they’ve earned through their honorable service. These aren’t
partisan issues – they’re neighbor issues.”
Proven Business Leadership
Diana knows what it means to make payroll, build customer relationships, and create something that
lasts. She’s created jobs, supported families, and understands the challenges facing small businesses and
manufacturers in rural America. Before leading Pinnacle Manufacturing, she spent 25 years running her
own company that trained and developed software for law firms across the country.
Deep Community Commitment
As a Trustee of SUNY Genesee Community College, Kastenbaum has fought for accessible, affordable
education that prepares students for good careers. She serves on both state and national community
college trustee organizations, advocating for students and institutions in Albany and Washington. Her
expertise has led to appointments on the Advanced Manufacturing Advisory Committee for Genesee
Community College and the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) Rural National Advisory
Council, where she helps shape workforce development programs.
Kastenbaum’s love for the arts began in her early years as an actress in New York, where she met her
husband Hiram Kasten, a well-known actor and comedian. As professionals in the entertainment
industry, both were long-time union members of Actors Equity and SAG/AFTRA. Her devotion to the arts
continued throughout her life, leading her to serve on the board of GOART! (Genesee-Orleans Regional
Arts Council). She believes strongly that the arts are necessary and important in a civilized society,
uplifting and inspiring people.
She has also served on the board of The Landmark Society of Genesee County, helping preserve the
history and character that make the region special.
Political Experience and Grassroots Organizing
Kastenbaum’s political journey includes running for Batavia City Council in 2013 and serving as the
Democratic nominee for Congress in NY-27 in 2016. She helped launch VoteRiders, a national
organization dedicated to ensuring every eligible citizen can exercise their right to vote, and organized
grassroots events for Public Citizen to fight the Citizens United decision.
Most recently, she co-founded Concerned Citizens for NY-24, organizing town halls across the district to
give neighbors a voice on issues that matter most to their families.
The Lake District
NY-24, which Kastenbaum describes as “The Lake District,” stretches from Lake Ontario in Niagara
County through the Genesee Valley, encompasses the Finger Lakes region, and extends east to the Saint
Lawrence Seaway. The district’s rural character and agricultural economy face unique challenges that
require representation that understands both business realities and community values.
“From the shores of Lake Ontario through the beautiful Genesee Valley to the gorgeous Finger Lakes and
beyond, we’ve always looked out for each other as neighbors,” said Kastenbaum. “I’m ready to answer
rural America’s clarion call and be the voice our communities need in Congress.”
About Diana Kastenbaum: Diana Kastenbaum, formerly Diana Kisiel, was born and raised in Batavia, NY.
Kastenbaum is the daughter of deceased WWII Navy veteran Henry Kisiel and deceased Lois Quartley
Kisiel. Diana was married to late actor and comedian Hiram Kasten for 38 years until his passing in 2024.
She is the proud mother of a daughter who serves as an attorney in public service.
Website and Social Media Links
Website: DianaForNY24.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DianaKastenbaum/
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@DianaKastenbaum