A Column from the Desk of Assemblyman Karl Brabenec (R,C-Deerpark)
Here in the 98th Assembly District, we are blessed with countless meaningful events that celebrate our shared values and bring us closer as a community. On Sunday, I had the pleasure of attending the Minisink Valley Kiwanis Club Pancake Day, where families came together to enjoy a delicious breakfast while supporting a great cause. Events like these remind us of what makes our region so special: the dedicated individuals who volunteer their time and energy to improve the lives of others. Just the day before, I took part in the 6th Annual Port Jefferson Polar Plunge, which raised $3,500 for the Special Operations Team of the Port Jervis Fire Department. Despite the chilly waters, it was a spirited event that showcased our community’s unwavering support for our first responders. Their courage and commitment inspire us all, and it’s a privilege to stand beside them and show our appreciation through events like this. However, when I’m in Albany, the contrast is stark. There, the priorities of our state government stand in direct opposition to the values we hold dear in our district. Gov. Hochul’s recent State of the State Address may have sounded optimistic, but the reality paints a different picture. Under her leadership, New York has faced mounting challenges that continue to go unaddressed. Instead of solving real problems, she promotes policies that pile on regulations, escalate spending on illegal migrants and prioritize New York City special interests over the needs of the rest of the state. Many of the tax cut proposals highlighted in her speech were originally introduced by the Assembly Republican Conference. For years, we’ve championed reforms to lower the cost of living and make New York more attractive to families and businesses. Yet, under this administration, residents are leaving in droves for states that offer safer streets, affordable living, and thriving economies. It’s clear that New York needs leadership grounded in common sense – leadership that prioritizes taxpayers and respects the hardworking individuals who call this state home. Back in the 98th District, I remain resolute in fighting for the values we cherish. Together, we will continue to ensure our community is a great place to live, work, and raise a family. While Albany may seem intent on imposing policies that disregard us, we will not waver in standing up for what is right. Thank you for your trust and support. I look forward to keeping you informed as we tackle these challenges head-on, working to build a better future for our district and our state. Together, we will prevail. Assemblyman Brabenec represents the 98th District, which includes the city of Port Jervis, the towns of Deerpark, Greenville, Mount Hope, Wawayanda, Minisink, Warwick, Tuxedo and portions of the towns of Goshen, Monroe and Ramapo. For more information, please visit his Official Website
