FRANKLIN SQUARE – In a sudden twist to the Albany tale, Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay (R-Pulaski) announced his decision to not seek re-election in November. He simultaneously stepped down as Minority Leader.
Barclay was elected to the Assembly’s 120th District in 2002 and was chosen to lead the Assembly Minority in 2020. His Central New York district includes most of Oswego County and portions of Cayuga and Jefferson counties.
“After a great deal of consideration, I have decided that I will not seek reelection,” Barclay said in a statement. “I intend to step down as minority leader in the coming days, allowing for a smooth transition to new leadership early in the legislative session. This is the right time for me to move on. I hold the deepest respect for this institution and will always be profoundly appreciative of the trust Assembly Republicans placed in me to serve as minority leader.”
Long Island now finds itself leading yet another charge, as Assemblyman Ed Ra (R-Franklin Square) was elected to the position by the Republican Assembly caucus on Monday. Ra, 44, has represented the Nassau-based 19th Assembly District since 2011.
“I am profoundly grateful for the trust and support my colleagues have placed in me and I’m excited for what’s ahead,” said Ra in a statement. “As a member of this Conference for nearly 16 years, I recognize the dedication and commitment Assembly Republicans bring to the job every day. I look forward to working alongside each of them as we continue fighting for responsible government, affordability, public safety, and a better New York for everyone who lives here and visits our great state.”
At the State GOP Convention in Garden City on Monday evening, Ra reminded attendees of the stakes.
“What we can’t forget is that just a few miles down the road is the New York City border, where they’ve embraced socialist policies and a socialist mayor,” said Ra. “And Kathy Hochul is his partner in leading this state down that same road.”
Barclay praised Ra in a statement, saying, “Ed is among the most respected members of the Legislature, and his track record of hard work, intelligence and commitment to our Conference will serve him well as Minority Leader. I wish him great success in guiding the Conference forward.”
Assembly Republicans wished Barclay well and congratulated Ra on ascending to the post.
“Leader Barclay never lost sight of the people we represent, especially those in small towns and rural communities that are too often overlooked,” said Assemblyman Keith Brown (R-Northport) in a statement. “Through his leadership, he helped secure critical funding and support for communities in Suffolk County and across New York, ensuring they had a real voice in Albany. His principled leadership, professionalism, and commitment to affordability and public safety set a standard that will endure.”
Of Ra’s new leadership position, Brown said it’s a “strong choice” for the Conference “and for Long Island.”
“Ed brings a clear-eyed understanding of how state policies impact local communities at home on Long Island…As a fellow Long Islander, Ed knows our region’s families and small businesses are being squeezed by high costs and failed policies.”
Assemblyman Joe DeStefano (R-Medford) said that Ra will bring “steady leadership” to the Conference.
“As a fellow Long Islander, Ed understands firsthand the challenges facing our region and our state, from the rising cost of living and public safety concerns to protecting taxpayers and supporting local families and small businesses,” said DeStefano in a statement. “Throughout his time in the Assembly, Ed has demonstrated steady leadership, a strong work ethic and a thoughtful approach to problem-solving. He has earned the respect of colleagues on both sides of the aisle by staying focused on results and never losing sight of the people we were elected to represent.”
Republicans hold 47 seats in the Assembly to the Democrats’ 103. Owing almost entirely to solidly-blue New York City, the GOP has been shut out of Assembly leadership since 1975.
