Statement from New York State Senator Daphne Jordan (R,C,I-Halfmoon):

The Senate Majority’s vote to remove indicted Lieutenant Governor Brian Benjamin from the ballot was the latest sad chapter in the seemingly never-ending story of Albany corruption. Let’s be clear, this unprecedented action was done for the political benefit of one person and one person only: embattled Governor Kathy Hochul. In fact, Governor Hochul drafted the bill because she wants a running mate that can strengthen her campaign. Her flagging political fortunes, not the needs of everyday New Yorkers, are apparently her only concern. If this were a sincere bill to fill needed gaps of legitimate reasons for a candidate to get off the ballot, there would be other excuses, such as those with a debilitating disease or terminal illness. This wasn’t the case. It was a shameful political act and a clear-cut confirmation of why we need to end one-party rule that is fueling corruption and undermining public trust in government.

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