Albany, NY – In response to the certification of John Brooks’ victory, Karen Scharff, Executive Director of Citizen Action of New York, said:
“The numbers don’t lie – a majority of New York’s State Senators are enrolled Democrats and can be a progressive force against Donald Trump’s extreme agenda. But that won’t happen unless Governor Cuomo acts to unify the Democrats.
A Republican majority in the State Senate will only help to line the pockets of wealthy campaign donors and put communities of color in danger. The Senate Republicans have blocked legislation to hold police accountable, give basic rights to immigrants, ensure that rich CEOs pay fair taxes and reduce the corrupting influence of big money in politics.
As the leader of the Democratic Party in New York, Governor Cuomo has a responsibility to use all of his power to advance an agenda that meets the needs of working people. By sitting out this fight, Governor Cuomo is allowing the Republicans to hold power in the State Senate, posing a grave threat to working people in New York.”
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