Assembly Minority Leader Ed Ra (R-Franklin Square) announced the Assembly Minority Conference leadership appointments for 2026.

“At a time when families are facing higher costs and growing uncertainty, strong leadership matters,” said Leader Ra. “This team brings experience, integrity and a strong commitment to holding government accountable while advancing common-sense solutions that make New York more affordable and safer.

I am incredibly proud of these leadership appointments—each member has a proven track record of dedicated public service, being a voice for their constituents and standing up for hardworking New Yorkers across our state. It is a privilege to work alongside such a dedicated team as we continue the fight for New York.”

Below is a list of Conference leadership appointments:

Ranking Minority Member, Ways and Means Committee
Philip Palmesano

Deputy Minority Leader
Kenneth Blankenbush

Assistant Minority Leader
Karl Brabenec

Assistant Minority Leader
Angelo Morinello

Deputy Minority Whip
Douglas Smith

Assistant Minority Whip
Michael Durso

 
“I am honored to be appointed as the ranking Minority member of the Ways and Means Committee,” said Assemblymember Phil Palmesano (R,C-Corning). “At a time when New York faces serious fiscal challenges and while the Legislature debates the governor’s proposed $260 billion budget, I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure transparency, accountability and responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. I want to thank Leader Ra for the trust and confidence he has placed in me to serve in this important role at this critical time.”

“I am truly honored for the opportunity to serve as deputy Minority leader,” said Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush (R,C-Black River). “Leader Ra and I came into the Assembly together in 2010, and to now serve alongside him in this role is truly meaningful. I look forward to strengthening our team and continuing to fight for the hardworking families of the North Country and Mohawk Valley.”

“It is a true honor to be appointed assistant Minority leader and to stand on the front lines of the fight to save New York. I am deeply grateful to Leader Ra for his friendship, his trust and the confidence he has placed in me to serve as one of his lieutenants in this critical moment for our state. Together with Leader Ra and the entire Minority Conference, I look forward to restoring common sense, opportunity and pride and working tirelessly to make New York the Empire State once again,” said Assemblymember Karl Brabenec (R,C-Deer Park).

“I am grateful to be appointed assistant Minority leader by my good friend, Leader Ed Ra. This important leadership role strengthens my ability to work hand in hand with Leader Ra to bring common sense back to New York and make our state a more affordable and safer place to live for families, seniors and small business owners across Western New York and beyond,” said Assemblyman Angelo Morinello (R,C-Niagara Falls).

“As someone who has served our country as a combat soldier, worked as an attorney and as a judge and represents the 145th Assembly District, I understand the value of practical, principled leadership and the urgency of restoring accountability and stability in Albany.

In my current role as ranking Minority member of the Assembly’s Codes Committee, and as a member of the committees on Economic Development, Ethics and Guidance, Labor, Tourism, and Veterans’ Affairs, I have been deeply involved in shaping policies that protect public safety, strengthen our economy, support veterans and uphold ethical standards in government.

As assistant Minority leader, I will continue fighting for effective solutions that put working families first, safeguard our communities and ensure common sense, fairness and fiscal responsibility guide every decision we make in Albany.”

“I am honored and humbled by the trust placed in me by Leader Ra and the opportunity to serve as deputy Minority whip. I will work tirelessly every day alongside Leader Ra and our members to advance the goals of the Minority Conference and to make New York safer and more affordable,” said Assemblymember Doug Smith (R,C-Holbrook).

“It’s an honor and privilege to serve alongside newly elected Leader Edward P. Ra as assistant Minority whip,” said Assemblyman Michael Durso (Massapequa Park). “I look forward to building a stronger future for our Conference by staying focused, working hard and delivering real results for the people across New York state.”