A Column from the Desk of Assemblyman Karl Brabenec (R,C-Deerpark)
Staying connected with you and our community is one of my top priorities. That’s why I’m excited to kick off this year’s “Koffee with Karl” series in Hillburn on February 27. This informal event is your chance to share concerns, discuss the issues that matter most, and collaborate on solutions. Whether it’s local challenges or statewide policies, I’m here to listen and advocate for you. No topic is too big or too small. Everyone is welcome—I hope to see you there!
One message I hear loud and clear from so many of you: New York must be more affordable. Sky-high taxes and the rising cost of living are squeezing families, seniors, and small businesses. As a father and lifelong New Yorker, I refuse to accept a future where people are forced to leave their home state just to make ends meet. We must fix this.
That’s why I’m fighting for real tax relief, common-sense regulatory reforms, and a more efficient state government that respects your hard-earned money. Hardworking New Yorkers should be able to stay in their homes, send their kids to great schools, and afford basic necessities without government overreach driving up costs.
I am pushing for a state budget that prioritizes tax cuts across the board—including relief on income and property taxes—to ease the financial burden on families. We can have a thriving economy and lower taxes, but it requires tough decisions and responsible spending.
Beyond affordability, I’m also standing up for fair elections and the integrity of our democratic process. I was pleased to see the Governor abandon her outrageous attempt to delay a special election in an upstate congressional district—a clear effort to rig the system for political gain. More than 750,000 New Yorkers deserve a voice in Congress, and they shouldn’t have to wait for it.
This wasn’t just an inconvenience—it was an assault on democracy. Voters deserve fair and timely elections, not political games that silence their voices. I will continue fighting to protect our electoral process and ensure every New Yorker is properly represented.
I hope to see you at “Koffee with Karl” on February 27, and stay tuned for more events across the 98th District. I’ll be out in your community, meeting with constituents and having the honest conversations needed to make New York stronger, fairer, and more affordable.
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.
