In a memo on Monday, December 16, Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay (R,C-Pulaski) announced Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh (R,C-Ballston) as his pick for Assembly Minority Leader Pro Tempore, following the retirement of Assemblymember Andrew Goodell (R,C-Chautauqua). In this role, Assemblywoman Walsh will run floor operations for the Republican Conference: reviewing and evaluating all the bills that come up for a vote on the floor; researching the issues, preparing and leading floor debates, and managing all Assembly floor activity through the legislative process. Walsh is only the third woman to hold this key leadership position, placing her as the second highest ranking member within the Minority Conference.

“I appreciate the confidence placed in me by Leader Barclay and am honored to take the reins, having spent the past four years as Assistant Minority Leader Pro Tempore to Assemblyman Goodell. Watching and learning from Andy how to debate proposed legislation respectfully, thoughtfully and thoroughly has been a formative experience. I’m delighted with the opportunity to lead debate during session proceedings, to collaborate and draw from the diverse backgrounds and experiences of our conference members, and to provide a strong counterpoint in the Assembly Chamber.”

“Since my first day in Albany, I have fully immersed myself in the legislative process and have dedicated my time and energy into providing a voice for the constituents of the 112th. I am proud to continue using that voice to benefit all New Yorkers.”

Elected to the Assembly in 2016, Walsh currently serves as the Assistant Minority Leader Pro Tempore, the Secretary of the American Irish Legislators’ Society, a member of the Legislative Women’s Caucus and a member of the Assembly Committees on Education, Judiciary, Mental Health and Ways and Means.