North Country Leader

State Senator Mark Walczyk responded to Governor Kathy Hochul's State of the State address with criticism, questioning the practicality and financial implications of her proposals. He commented on the theatrical elements of the address, saying, "Governor Hochul opened her State of the State address with a new song and dance; literally. I'm not sure how slam poetry, marching bands, choirs, dancers and Off-Broadway productions are going to reduce crime, or lower financial burdens for everyday New Yorkers but I'm sure she entertained herself."

Walczyk expressed concern over the cost associated with Governor Hochul's initiatives. He stated, "What's not entertaining is the price tag of all the goodies she's promising and what these proposals will do to further the largest state budget in the nation." The Senator questioned several financial aspects of the proposals, particularly regarding tax cuts and rebates. "The Governor repeatedly asserted, ‘you deserve more money in your pocket,’ yet her proposals—including $1 billion in middle-class tax cuts, a $500 rebate check for families, and a $1,000 child tax credit. Sounds nice, but if she's taking thousands out of your pocket in new taxes and fees, handing you back hundreds is nothing more than a cheap political gimmick," he said.

On crime policy, Walczyk criticized the lack of commitment to repealing 'cashless bail.' He noted that it "continues to confound those who enforce our laws and jeopardize the safety of our communities."

Regarding other parts of Hochul's agenda like community college funding and emission-free projects, Walczyk asked rhetorically about their financial impact: "'Free' Community College? Who's paying for that? $1 billion toward emission-free projects? Who's energy bill is that going to show up on?"

Despite his criticisms, Walczyk found some common ground with Governor Hochul's energy strategy. "I was encouraged to see that she seems willing to keep nuclear energy on the table as part of our state’s energy strategy," he remarked.

In closing his statement, Walczyk emphasized affordability concerns and called for substantial reforms: "Enough of the 'song and dance.' Let's get after serious reforms to make New York a place that stops exporting the working class, stops importing criminals, and actually lays the groundwork for growth."