By Will Barclay
It was encouraging to hear a number of Assembly Republicans proposals referenced in Governor Hochul’s State of the State Address—inflation relief, public safety, and child care accessibility. While we were disappointed when these legislative solutions were blocked by Democrats in previous years, I am optimistic we can now work together to address these issues.
However, as is often the case with State of the State addresses, Governor Hochul’s speech offered an overly optimistic picture of New York’s current state of affairs. The reality is, for six years, one-party rule has created a more expensive and more dangerous New York. Public safety and affordability are real problems, driving families and businesses away — but we need real, permanent solutions. The governor may finally be saying the right things on issues Republicans have been sounding the alarm on for years, but the record speaks for itself.
I urge caution following Governor Hochul’s remarks claiming affordability can be addressed without a commitment to rein in out-of-control state spending. While the governor outlined ambitious proposals, there was no indication new taxes would be avoided. Furthermore, meeting Democrats’ climate goals will require billions of dollars and raise utility prices on every family. We cannot continue on this unsustainable financial path. Hopefully, the governor will address these concerns in her Executive Budget address next week.
If today was any indication, the state will fall woefully short on the urgent reforms needed to restore accountability to a dismantled criminal justice system. Until policies such as New York’s sanctuary status, Raise the Age, and Bail Reform are meaningfully addressed, the safety of every constituent will remain in jeopardy.
We have an opportunity in 2025 to break from the status quo and make New York a more affordable, secure and desirable place to call home. It is time to deliver the changes New Yorkers deserve and create lasting solutions that will strengthen our state for years to come.
Will Barclay (R,C,I-Pulaski) is the Assembly Minority Leader.