As I reflect on another six months in Albany, serving the people of the Mohawk Valley and North Country, I can’t help but be filled with confusion, dismay and a bit of anger. This anger, confusion and dismay will soon manifest into disgust and then motivation. It is a cycle that has become all too familiar, yet each time, is as difficult as the last.

While I am proud that my colleagues and I in the Legislature have solved the lingering issue of ride-sharing, approved increased school aid and, specifically for our district, passed agriculture-friendly legislation, the issues we did not address will add fuel to the fire within; ethics and economic development reform.

To lay it out in its most plain and straight-forward language, the individuals with the power to change the way New York operates once again failed to do so. Differences in political ideology are understandable. People from different walks of life have different views on situations. While this makes governing difficult, it’s also what makes our state great. What isn’t acceptable is compliance with corruption and waste. Wasting millions of taxpayer dollars is unacceptable. Compliance with a corrupt status quo is unacceptable.

It continues to confuse me as to why the Assembly Majority are so opposed to holding lawmakers and public officials accountable for their actions. I am dismayed that the hard-working residents of New York State continue to have their tax dollars burned behind their back by some of those who supposedly “serve” them. I am angered that year after year, the same problem persists, a growing distrust and distaste for government. The lack of respect for the people of our state by the Assembly Majority troubles me. However, the amazing people of the 117th Assembly District motivate me to continue fighting for change, and for that I am thankful.

The lack of action by the Assembly Majority to address either of these issues this year speaks volumes. My Conference and I have offered viable, nonpartisan solutions to these persistent problems, yet they are continually ignored. Do not be fooled when a certain side of the aisle tells you ethics reform or economic oversight is needed. They had their chance.

I want to know what you think about this or any other legislative matter. Please contact me by emailing blankenbushk@nyassembly.gov or by calling my office at 315-493-3909.