Craig Johnson

“Great minds think alike. Andrew Cuomo’s embrace of my call to include a tax cap in the next budget extender is even more evidence that he is just what this state needs at this very critical time.”

“I once again call on Governor Paterson to heed our call and secure a legacy as a friend to property taxpayers on Long Island and across New York state.”

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“At this time of economic crisis, teachers in the Port Washington and Roslyn school districts, which I represent, made a responsible and laudable decision to forgo raises this coming year. Members of public employee unions should do the same. Such a move would send the right message as families continue to struggle and our economy continues to rebuild, as well as help out the state in the midst of budget negotiations. I believe elected officials should not be increasing their compensation for these same reasons. I have introduced legislation to freeze per diem rates of all state lawmakers.

"In deciding not to seek a full term, Governor Paterson made a responsible decision in the wake of the disturbing scandal that has consumed his office. Prior to these most recent allegations of domestic violence and abuse of power, I was the first member of the Long Island delegation to call for Governor Paterson to not run this November. I was concerned that politics were distracting him from the business of running the state. The Governor must now consider whether he can be an effective leader for New York during these difficult times."

Senator Craig M. Johnson, (D-Nassau), was recently honored by the Adelphi Breast Cancer Hotline and Support Program for his successful efforts to restore vital state funding for this critically important program.