The governor delivered one of his more eloquent speeches today and offered some very inspiring words on how to move our state into the New Year. However, Gov. Cuomo seems to be afraid to address the real problem that plagues our state: the out-of- control spending and substantial invoice that the taxpayers of this state are stuck with.

While I’m cautiously optimistic about some of his proposed programs, such as the $1.66 billion property tax program and small-business tax cuts, I’m less than enthused about the lack of overall plan to save taxpayers real money. Every single person in this state is in desperate need of real tax relief. And while a plan to cut the taxes of certain individuals is a step in the right direction, it does not solve the overall crisis we are perpetually stuck in. Picking winners and losers in this economy is not the answer.

We need permanent, broad-based, across-the-board tax cuts as well as massive spending cuts. New York State has an immense spending problem, and until that is wrestled under control, the hardworking middle-class families of New York will be forced to foot the bill.

I look forward to negotiations with my colleagues across the aisle and hope we can come to terms on a budget that looks to help all New Yorkers, not just New York City and Long Island.