Following Gov. Kathy Hochul’s 2026 State of the State address delivered in Albany yesterday, Assemblyman Scott Gray released the following statement.

“Finding common ground should always be the standard in major addresses like the State of the State and the executive state budget presentation. When proposals are suggested to move the state forward, support should be clear. When proposals raise real concerns, questions should be asked early and answered fully.

Two areas stood out in a positive way.

First, the announcement to expand New York’s nuclear energy goal from one gigawatt to an additional four gigawatts, totaling five gigawatts, is a major development. It is an initiative highly pursued by the North Country. Done responsibly, this is the kind of reliable, around-the-clock power that can strengthen the grid, support economic growth and create family-sustaining careers, especially when paired with a nuclear workforce development program.

Second, child care initiatives deserve serious attention. Helping families access care and strengthening early education are worthwhile goals, including efforts to expand assistance, pilot community approaches and move toward universal pre-kindergarten.

At the same time, the single biggest question remains: The price tag for child care is high; how is all of this going to be paid for, not just this year, but in the out years? When proposals are described as ‘paid for’ in the near term with no long-term funding plan in place, that is a red flag, particularly when the scope reaches into the billions. The budget message must provide hard numbers, dedicated funding sources and a realistic timeline.

Affordability was repeatedly emphasized, but New Yorkers are living the opposite. Energy costs are high, housing costs are high and auto insurance has become painfully expensive for many families. Any affordability agenda must reflect responsibility and deliver measurable relief, not slogans. Proposals regarding utility efficiency assistance, auto insurance and housing are worth reviewing, but results should be judged by whether bills and premiums actually come down.

One other omission was hard to ignore: agriculture. A state that relies on farms, food producers and rural employers cannot treat agriculture as an afterthought. The community across Upstate deserves to hear priorities that recognize that reality.

Finally, the address leaned heavily toward New York City-centric themes and examples. New York is bigger than any one region, and the governor can do better at naming, recognizing and speaking to the full state.

There were constructive notes on economic development, including a stated focus on reducing outdated and onerous regulations. That direction is welcome, but it must be matched with follow-through and a clear fiscal plan.

The next test is the executive state budget. New Yorkers deserve a straightforward accounting of what is proposed, what it costs and who pays.”

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