“It took the governor an hour and fifteen minutes to address the issue of a $6 billion budget shortfall. Instead he outlined a litany of past ‘accomplishments’, million and billion dollar projects and pieces of his ‘progressive’ agenda. It is not the year for monumental spending or unrealistic expectations. We should focus on ways to close the shortfall, while also ensuring that the very basics are given the financial support they need and fixing the disastrous “bail reform” law that has endangered our families and communities. New York taxpayers deserve a responsible budget and common-sense legislation, not budgetary tricks that punt the state’s financial woes into future budgets at our children’s expense. Unfortunately, the words used to describe this year’s agenda, like ‘bold’, ‘robust’ and ‘aggressive’, suggest otherwise in terms of finding that balance.

“Last year was no doubt a warm up for what’s to come, and I’m ready to fight for what’s best for Upstate New York, and statewide. From speaking out on the floor of the Assembly to joining my colleagues at press conferences and rallies – I can assure the residents of the 112^th Assembly District I am ready for the challenges ahead.”