Assembly ML Peoples-Stokes, a champion for organ and tissue donation, promoting the 2026 Doorways to Donation Act.

Good morning from Albany, New York, where Thomas Jefferson’s birthday today has come—and will go—without a final budget. Tomorrow, lawmakers are expected to pass a third short-term extender to cover state payroll and other essential services. The question remains, how long will the extender run?

Both extenders so far have been one-week budget extenders, a change from past years when Governor Kathy Hochul only authorized two or three-day extenders in order to hold legislators’ feet to the fire as negotiations continue. The longer timeframe is a welcome development for rank-and-file members, with Assembly Member Al Stirpe offering, “Maybe they’re trying to be nice to us.” He continued, “We can leave and go back to our districts and actually do something. The worst part is having to just stand around and wait for somebody to say, ‘Well, there’s an agreement.’ Us just spending money being here without any chance of accomplishing anything is really not very smart. So in that respect, it’s a good thing we’re doing it this way.” The length of this extender is anyone’s guess, but conventional wisdom over the last few days has been predicting another week. The length of the extender is also an indication of how close—or how far away—negotiations remain.

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According to all sources, the Legislature and Executive Chamber have not even begun conversations on dollars and cents—or table targets in budget parlance—instead continuing to work towards closing out the larger policy issues first. The biggest outstanding policy issue is Hochul’s proposed auto insurance regulations, with Senate Deputy Majority Leader Mike Gianaris declaring, “I don’t think we’re close.” Gianaris later added, “One of the reasons we haven’t made a lot of progress is we keep asking for data to justify the claim that fraud is driving higher insurance rates. There is no guarantee in anything she’s proposed that any savings that accrue to the insurance companies will be passed on to consumers at the end of the day.” Hochul took issue with that characterization, telling reporters last week, “It’s not me saying so, it’s proof from other states with the same reforms implemented. They have seen their prices, their premiums, go down. That is what my expectation is, and I’m convinced that will happen. We’re also looking at what we are capping insurance companies at. I don’t want excessive profits made by the insurance companies. I don’t want the trial lawyers lining their pockets from all of these outrageous cases they bring, because you know who is paying for that? Our drivers.” Both sides continue to dig in as they also invest in advertising and sponsorships, a brief glimpse into how many dollars are at stake here. This fight has a few more rounds left to go.

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Number two on the policy list? Changes Hochul is looking for regarding New York’s landmark climate law, the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA). These negotiations remain particularly opaque as Hochul has not officially offered any amendments to the climate law in her proposed budget. The only details we have are an op-ed published in the Empire Report in late March. That said, we know Hochul’s rationale, based on a now-infamous NYSERDA memo, is to spare New Yorkers thousands of dollars a year in higher gas and electric costs. The CLCPA requires electric systems to be zero-emission by 2040. To attain this goal, 70% of the state’s electricity must be generated by renewable energy by 2030, and only zero-emission sources qualify as “renewable energy systems.” Reports indicate that Hochul wants to change the time horizon for measuring the global warming impact from 20 years to 100 years, add additional methods to the list of eligible renewable energy systems, and make additional technical amendments about what qualifies as zero-emission. Some folks argue that this all combines to benefit national gas production. A more in-depth look is here. Also worth a read, Hochul has company in this space.

As these (and a few others, including SEQRA changes) are resolved, the focus of the two women and a man in a room will turn to fiscal issues. That discussion will start with how much revenue the state has, and while Hochul continues to insist that her new budget will not include new taxes, proponents for increasing taxes on the wealthy are not backing down. A gaggle of protesters confronted her last week at a press conference at the Javits Center. Hochul waved at the protesters and said, “My friends follow me everywhere. What people may not realize, everything I’m doing is focused on trying to put money back in their pockets to make life more affordable in New York. And I will be unrelenting in that quest.”

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City Council Speaker Julie Menin provided Hochul some additional political cover, pushing back on New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s assertion that he will be forced to raise property taxes if Albany does not give him the authority to hike income taxes. Speaking at the National Action Network, the social justice advocacy group founded by Al Sharpton, Menin said, “We’re also focused in the City Council on making sure that we are protecting the Black community. And by doing that, I say we have said a hard ‘No’ to raising property taxes by 9.5 percent. That is unacceptable, because if we were to do that, we would be hurting Black communities across our city.”

Mamdani indicated last week that raising property taxes is undesirable but said he is left with no choice in the face of New York City’s looming budget gap, telling reporters, “That it is a path of last resort, one that we will spend every single day looking to avoid as we pursue a path of working with Albany to increase taxes on the wealthiest New Yorkers, the most profitable corporations and end the drain that has characterized the city’s relationship with the state.” 

New York FY27 Assembly & Senate One-House Budget Analysis - O'Donnell & Associates

O'Donnell & Associates' One-House budget analysis of New York's FY27 Assembly and Senate proposals—covering taxes, housing, healthcare, education, and more. Read here!

Further complicating budget negotiations is the news that Liz Krueger, Chair of the Senate Finance Committee, suffered a mild stroke earlier this month. Reports indicate that she is recovering and in touch with staff and her colleagues. I first got to know Senator Krueger during her first run for the Senate, and then got to know her better soon thereafter as a volunteer on her ultimately successful Special Election campaign. Few in New York match her wit, wisdom, command of the budget process, or her fidelity and advocacy in support of her beliefs. We wish her a speedy recovery.

Crystal Peoples-Stokes to Retire from State Assembly

Jack talks to WBEN’s Tom Puckett about the announcement from the prominent WNY politician that she’s not running for reelection.

Another point of personal privilege, a well-deserved thank you to Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes, who announced last week that she will not be seeking reelection after serving in the Assembly for the past 23 years. I was honored to get to know her during her time in the Erie County Legislature, and I am proud to have worked on her 1998 Congressional campaign, her first race for the Assembly, and her first winning Assembly race. She has been a force in our community and in Albany her entire career. In an age when politicians like to talk, Crystal has always been the kind of leader who listened... and then got something done. I am grateful for her leadership, friendship, and all she has done for New York, especially Western New York. She will serve through the end of the year, but will be sorely missed.

🔊Why are so many state lawmakers heading for the exits?

LISTEN to Jack’s take as he goes ‘From the Lobby.’ Plus:🎙️Who could replace Crystal Peoples-Stokes as Majority Leader?🎙️Biggest budget fight 🎙️Conflicting NYC polls

In political news, Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman has filed a lawsuit against the New York State Public Campaign Finance Board (PCFB) and the State Board of Elections (BOE) seeking to overturn his campaign’s disqualification from millions of dollars in public campaign funds. The PCFB disqualified Blakeman in March because his running mate, Madison County Sheriff Todd Hood, failed to submit the required paperwork. However, the Blakeman campaign has argued that his campaign registered in December, and the new state law requiring governor and lieutenant governor candidates to run and file as a single ticket did not take effect until January, nor did anyone inform the campaign about the changing requirements. This continues to be a black eye for Democrats and democracy. If Blakeman’s lawsuit is successful, he could have access to up to $7 million in public financing. 

Political Shakeups & Voter Impact

Byron Brown, Brian Higgins, and Joe Emminger are among area elected leaders who have stepped away in the middle of their terms. Jack weighs in with WBEN’s Tom Puckett.

Georgia held a Special Runoff Election last week to fill the seat vacated by former Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene. Republican attorney Clay Fuller, Trump’s pick to fill the seat, defeated Democrat Shawn Harris in the 14th Congressional District, giving Mike Johnson slightly more breathing room as he continues to navigate one of the slimmest majorities in history. However, Democrats are finding a silver lining in the results. In 2024, Trump won the district by almost 37 points, and Greene won by about 29 points. Fuller defeated Harris by only 12 points on Tuesday, marking the largest swing against the GOP in seven House special elections during President Donald Trump's second term, compared with the 2024 presidential results. We will see in seven months whether that swing ultimately holds or is enough to change control of Congress. Of course, Democrats continue to have their own problems: a sexual assault scandal in the California governor’s race and a House ethics problem in Florida.

2026 CPR House Race Ratings

The CPR House Race Ratings assess the competitiveness of all 435 House elections.

Well done to New York State Commissioner of Labor Robert Reardon for naming the Albany DOL HQ after Frances Perkins. Perkins is an inspiration to many of us.

While some are heading further into space, others are opening a new frontier underwater.

Finally, reports of the death of the world’s oldest tortoise appear to be premature.  At 193 years old, you’d think nothing could faze him—but the internet nearly buried him! Read on!

 -Jack O’Donnell

Congratulations to our Michael Greco, 2026 Trailblazer in Transportation!

We are thrilled to announce that Greco, OD&A’s Senior Associate, has been named to the prestigious list by City & State NY. The list highlights influential leaders driving smarter, stronger transportation policy across the state. Click his photo to learn more about his work!

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Jack goes ‘From the Lobby’ on the budget crawl and more! 🎙️Who could replace AM Peoples-Stokes as Majority Leader? 🎙️Biggest budget fight 🎙️Conflicting NYC polls

“Meet the Team” is our new podcast series highlighting the people who drive our firm’s success. ICYMI, listen as we go ‘From the Lobby’ with some members of our staff!

Sr. Advisor for Health Care Dr. Ellen Grant Chief of Staff Diane Ong VP of Public Affairs Ralph Ortega Senior Associate Michael Greco VP of Government Affairs Marc Cohen

VP and Policy Director Jim Moore Fellow Emily Sullivan Director of Communications Joanna Pasceri Associate Peter McGowan

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OD&A’s Marc Cohen on LinkedIn: Weather Cooperates With New Goodwill Store Opening

For anyone keeping track (I am), every time Goodwill of the Finger Lakes opens a new store, the weather shows up! Today in Chili was no exception. But more importantly, this new location is another step forward in a mission that goes far beyond retail. Every donation given a second life helps power critical services across our community, from 2-1-1 and 9-8-8 to the Goodwill Learning Academy and workforce development programs that change lives. Thank you CEO Jennifer Lake and your team for making it happen!

More here!

April 13, 1943: FDR dedicates the Jefferson Memorial in honor of former President Thomas Jefferson. Calling the memorial a “shrine to freedom,” FDR spoke of the parallels between Jefferson’s challenges in the founding of the republic, and those being experienced at the time by a nation embroiled in a world war.

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Best New York Towns For Retirement The secret to retiring in New York? It’s all about location! Which communities are ranked the best for starting your next chapter? Check out the list!

Monday Morning Memo has won two PRSA Excalibur Awards.

OD&A is ranked #7 among WNY’s fastest growing companies for 2025.

CSNY names OD&A a 2025 Top Place to Work!

The New York State Senate Chamber

Good morning from Buffalo, New York, where Dyngus Day is definitely a thing.

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Tomorrow, the OD&A Team will join the state legislature in Albany, where the state budget is officially five days late and the discussion centers around the length of the next short-term extender rather than the substance of the budget. Furthermore, it appears little to no negotiations have happened since the last extender was passed, although the holiday weekend certainly was a factor in the absence of real discussion. Nonetheless, with no immediate end in sight, lawmakers will need a new budget extender before Wednesday to ensure payroll and other obligations are met. 

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As highlighted in last week’s Monday Morning Memo, Governor Kathy Hochul’s proposal to delay and modify emissions mandates originally adopted through the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA) has been one of the main issues holding up any budget movement, yet lawmakers say they have still not seen actual budget language from the Executive Chamber, which makes it difficult to negotiate. Liz Krueger, Chair of the Senate Finance Committee, told reporters last week, “We still don’t think we have full language from the governor of what she’s actually proposing. I wish I could tell you there was a specific proposal in writing to share with everyone. But we don’t have one.”

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At the same time, Hochul is holding the line on her plan to lower auto insurance costs despite skepticism from colleagues in the state legislature and intense pushback from the Trial Lawyers Association. When asked about the timing of a final budget last week, Hochul offered, “We have to be louder than the special interests who are trying to hijack my agenda, which is exclusively focused on affordability for New Yorkers. Will it be done on time? I always strive for an on-time budget. It’s due April 1, but I’m just trying to persuade people that I’m fighting for New Yorkers.” 

Just ask Jack: What’s the impact of a late state budget?

LISTEN as Jack joins the morning team at WBEN to discuss the late budget, including the issues holding up the process and how long talks are expected to drag on.

In addition to the CLCPA amendments and auto insurance reform, Hochul and the legislature still need to reach an agreement on issues such as immigration protections, tax increases, and public-sector pension reforms.

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Even with the plethora of issues still on the table, Budget Director Blake Washington is optimistic that the process will not drag into May as it did last year. Speaking to reporters at the Capitol last week, Washington said, “Once everybody returns from the holiday season, we hit the ground running, and I don’t think it should be very long after that. I don’t see any reason it should drag into a repeat of last year. That being said, the governor has been very, very clear on what her needs are out of this process.”

Of course, Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie will help dictate the timing of a final budget, and both have been lukewarm on some of Hochul’s major proposals. On auto insurance reform, Heastie offered, ”The fact that if, God forbid, you are the primary reason there is an accident, you will no longer be entitled to pain and suffering. That is a pretty serious thing for people to accept.” Stewart-Cousins did not outright reject Hochul’s proposed amendments to the CLCPA, but highlighted the need to include measures aimed at addressing rising utility rates in the short-term, saying, “Any conversation has to include things that are really going to help people, I think the Assembly put something in its one-house that would offer rebates or whatever, which we are open to.” 

New York FY27 Assembly & Senate One-House Budget Analysis - O'Donnell & Associates

O'Donnell & Associates' One-House budget analysis of New York's FY27 Assembly and Senate proposals—covering taxes, housing, healthcare, education, and more. Read here!

The politics of an election year make negotiations a little more complicated, especially for the majority members facing primaries from their left flanks, but also as a factor for Hochul. There is plenty of speculation that Hochul is happy to travel the state talking about affordability—promising savings to ratepayers on auto insurance and preventing price increases tied to climate goals—and standing as the bulwark against personal income and corporate tax increases is a place where Hochul is very comfortable. They are not wrong. She is, in her own words, “… just trying to persuade people that I’m fighting for New Yorkers.” That eliminates, or at least limits, any urgency to have a budget done soon. Pick up a good book because it may be a bit.

There is a little more action in New York City, where federal prosecutors unsealed a 20-page indictment accusing two nonprofit leaders of fraud related to their work running city-funded homeless shelters. According to a search warrant used in the investigation, federal prosecutors are also probing whether an aide to Hochul, Debbie Louis, and New York City Council Member Farah Louis (the two are sisters) accepted kickbacks in conjunction with appropriating city dollars to BHRAGS Home Care Corp. The search warrant also names Edu Hermelyn, the husband of Assembly Member Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn, who also serves as Chair of the Brooklyn Democratic Party. The Louis sisters have not been formally accused of any wrongdoing, but federal investigators raided both of their residences last month, seizing cell phones and other electronics. The indictment alleges that Ronald Tirelus and Roberto Samedy, who helped lead BHRAGS Home Care Corp., stole money from the non-profit and accepted kickbacks from vendors seeking to do business with BHRAGS. In a statement, a spokesman for the non-profit said, "For more than 50 years, BHRAGS has served New Yorkers in need with integrity and the highest ethical standards, and we take the allegations against Mr. Samedy seriously.” Debbie Louis has been placed on administrative leave from Hochul’s office, while Council Member Farah Louis has not been seen at City Hall since news of the investigation was made public. 

In other concerning news, New York State’s public campaign matching funds program is off to a shaky start for its first gubernatorial race, with Hochul opting out of the program and her GOP challenger, Bruce Blakeman, being denied access because of a technicality. The Public Campaign Finance Board ruled 4 to 3 on a strictly partisan vote that Blakeman was disqualified from the program because his running mate, Madison County Sheriff Todd Hood, did not submit paperwork to qualify for matching funds. This was a new requirement introduced late in 2025, and the Board did not create a form that included spaces for the governor and lieutenant governor. Further, in the past, the Board has made other candidates aware of similar paperwork errors and has allowed them sufficient time to remedy those mistakes. That courtesy—or fairness—was not extended in this case. Republican Brian Kolb, Vice Chair of the Public Campaign Finance Board and former Assembly Minority Leader, said of the decision, “This is an abomination of trying to do bureaucratic nonsense, to try to eliminate candidates for an election and it defeats the whole purpose of a public campaign finance board to give confidence to the voters, to the donors that want to participate.” The decision is a blow to the Blakeman campaign as he tries to keep pace with Hochul, who already has $20 million cash on hand. 

While Blakeman still lags in fundraising, a new poll released by Siena University last week offered some hope for his campaign. The survey found Hochul leading Blakeman 47-34%, down from the 20-point lead she held in February. In a statement, Blakeman said, “We’re closing the gap at lightning speed because New Yorkers need real relief from Kathy Hochul’s cost-of-living crisis, and they'll get it with my plan to cut income taxes, slash utility bills in half, and make New York affordable.” Hochul’s favorability rating, 45-42%, and her job approval rating, 52-40%, remain largely unchanged, but independents now favor Blakeman by seven points after favoring Hochul by five points in past polls. Hochul’s campaign released a statement after the latest poll, saying, “Every day, Kathy Hochul is delivering for New Yorkers—lowering costs, investing billions to keep families safe, and standing up to Donald Trump—while Bruce Blakeman is offering the opposite: higher prices, Medicaid cuts, and letting Trump’s ICE trample on New Yorkers’ rights. That’s how you become a six-time loser, and it’s why Blakeman is being rejected again.” It is too early to tell if this is real movement in the campaign or a reflection of the national mood. Learn more by listening to our From the Lobby podcast this week and stay tuned.

Thanks to a Good Friday confession, calm has been restored at a pub in South West England after its beloved cuddly mascot disappeared, courtesy of one too many drinks.

Finally, it started with a truckload of stolen KitKat bars and all the makings of a PR nightmare. But instead of melting down, the brand leaned in, and the chocolate heist turned into a surprisingly sweet win. Read on!

nestle.com

 -Jack O’Donnell

Jack goes ‘From the Lobby’ on the late budget and more: 🎙️How long will talks drag on? 🎙️Blakeman’s campaign funding snafu 🎙️NYC budget battle

“Meet the Team” is our new podcast series highlighting the people who drive our firm’s success. ICYMI, listen as we go ‘From the Lobby’ with some members of our staff!

Sr. Advisor for Health Care Dr. Ellen Grant Chief of Staff Diane Ong VP of Public Affairs Ralph Ortega Senior Associate Michael Greco VP of Government Affairs Marc Cohen

VP and Policy Director Jim Moore Fellow Emily Sullivan Director of Communications Joanna Pasceri Associate Peter McGowan

UB Secures Funding for Cross-Border Supply Chains

Rep. Tim Kennedy announces the School of Management will receive $1.03 million in federal funding to help small- and medium-sized businesses navigate the challenges of cross-border trade. Read on!

WATCH: PIX11’s Monica Morales is joined by Aldrin Rafael Bonilla, Executive Vice President for OD&A client, Fund for the City of New York, for a powerful conversation on the true cost of living and why nearly half of working New Yorkers are struggling to make ends meet, plus real solutions for families right now.

More here!

April 6, 1980: 3M introduces Post-it Notes, and they are an instant sensation! From desks to fridges to offices, those sticky squares became a daily essential and are still wildly popular today. Find out how they were discovered here!

29 Ways to Entertain Your Kids in New York City This Spring Need some ideas for shaking off the winter doldrums in the Big Apple? Check out these ideas!

Monday Morning Memo has won two PRSA Excalibur Awards.

OD&A is ranked #7 among WNY’s fastest growing companies for 2025.

CSNY names OD&A a 2025 Top Place to Work!

Senate One-House Budget Includes 15% Increase For Upstate Public Transit

Good morning from Albany, where the New York State 2026-2027 Budget is about to be late. Again.

The Legislature passed one important bill—a debt services package of about $10.6 billion—last week, but the wait is on for a budget extender bill to continue to fund state government (and pay state workers) as an agreement on the remaining budget bills is not close. During the floor debate on that bill, powerful Senate Finance Chair Liz Krueger declared, “I can assure everyone here we will not have budget bills completed before the April 1 deadline.”

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The biggest question today is the term of that extension; presumably past Passover, Easter, and Dyngus Day. “Normally it would be for a week,” Assembly Ways and Means Chair J. Gary Pretlow mused during the Assembly floor debate. “But the calendar this year is really working against us in this entire budget process.” Worth noting, state legislators are not paid until the entire budget is passed. Of course, everyone in Albany says a late budget is better than an on-time budget.

A number of high-profile issues remain, notably Governor Kathy Hochul’s proposals on climate and auto insurance, as well as, to a lesser extent, Hochul’s proposal on building/making changes to the SEQRA process. Deputy Senate Majority Leader Mike Gianaris last week blamed the delay on these non-fiscal issues: “This is the problem when you start inserting non-budget items into the budget. On the numbers, we could wrap this budget up by next week. But the things we’re caught up on are policy debates that don’t really have, strictly speaking, anything to do with the state budget.”

Wall Street's 2025 Bonuses Reached Unprecedented Levels

Read more from ABC News.

A budget flag for next year? A new report from state Comptroller Tom DiNapoli predicts Wall Street bonuses to come in at 9 percent higher than last year. Good numbers, especially if you work on Wall Street. However, the New York City financial plan envisioned the Wall Street bonus pool to be 15 percent higher, and New York’s Executive proposal predicted it would be 26 percent higher. “This is good news,” DiNapoli said. “It doesn't mean it's great news, because the city and the state were anticipating an increase in the bonus pool, and actually, the numbers we have are probably just a little bit shy of what had been initially anticipated.” More of a next year problem. Another concern? The Comptroller found that New York’s securities industry continues to lose workers. After a 30-year high of 201,500 employees in 2024, the state clocked 198,200 workers in that sector last year.

Back to this year, one of the key sticking points continues to be Hochul’s proposal to crack down on auto insurance fraud in the hopes of driving down premiums for New Yorkers. The New York Trial Lawyers Association remains in staunch opposition, arguing that the proposal will “take away New Yorkers’ rights to fair and adequate compensation,” and that insurance companies will not pass savings on to consumers. Despite the intense opposition from outside groups and many in the legislature, the proposal is a key tenet of Hochul’s affordability agenda, and she does not appear to be backing down. A Hochul spokesperson said, “Governor Hochul is committed to enhancing safety on New York's roads and driving down the exorbitant costs of auto insurance for everyone. Governor Hochul's plan will bring down costs, hold bad actors accountable, and put an end to fraudulent stunts that put people in harm's way.” Democrats in the Senate have a more nuanced view, according to Deputy Leader Gianaris, and are worried about a ripple effect: “Some of the solutions that have been advanced might encourage insurance companies to claim fraud on just about every claim because that would allow them to withhold payments from what I gathered from the governor’s proposal.” More to come.

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Hochul and her colleagues in the legislature remain divided on rollbacks of the state’s flagship 2019 Climate Leadership & Community Protection Act (CLCPA) amid soaring utility prices. Hochul has argued that changes are needed to address affordability concerns and has proposed changing how the state accounts for methane gas emissions and pushing the deadline for cap-and-invest guidelines to 2030. In an op-ed earlier this month, Hochul wrote, “These impossible emission reduction targets… only used by NY and one other state… will ensure our failure despite all of our efforts and billions of dollars spent.”

As the budget battle in Albany drags on, who wins the fight over climate rollbacks? 🌎

Listen as Jack goes ‘From the Lobby’ on what’s dividing lawmakers and how it could play out. Also:🎙️Immigration debate🎙️Mamdani’s new strategy🎙️Lawler’s limos & Blakeman’s woes

Environmental advocates and their allies in the legislature are not convinced that changes to the law are necessary, with Assembly Environmental Conservation Committee Chair Deborah Glick offering, “You cannot change science, and the issue of the accounting method, regardless of whether it is consistent with other states or, even an international body, the science has advanced.”  

Could State Legislators Be Warming to Hochul's Proposed Climate Act Changes?

Changes to the Climate Act are a sticking point in finalizing the state budget which is likely to be completed late. Read more in the Times Union.

One area where Hochul and environmentalists agree is the need to reform New York’s State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) to spur multi-unit housing development. At a roundtable on the issue last week, Hochul offered, “For too long, red tape has stood in the way of communities building the housing and infrastructure that New Yorkers desperately need. That’s why this year, I proposed that when a community says yes to housing and to critical infrastructure like clean water and childcare facilities, we are going to let them build.” In further evidence that Albany creates strange bedfellows, proponents of Hochul’s SEQRA reforms include Earthjustice, Citizens Budget Commission, the Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY), the Regional Plan Association, and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Elizabeth Moran, a policy advocate at Earthjustice, said, “We can do both. We can build more housing, and we can protect the environment,” while Andrew Rein, the president at the Citizens Budget Commission, offered, “We’re talking about here modestly sized, multi-unit housing, up to 500 units in the city on the governor’s proposal, up to 100 units outside the city, and this is not in green, field sites previously disturbed or developed sites.” The Senate’s proposal is more expansive, allowing a greater number of housing units to be subject to the reformed SEQRA guidelines, while the Assembly's proposal includes a new prevailing wage requirement and sunsets the reforms in 2029. Stay tuned to see where they land in the final budget.  

New York FY27 Assembly & Senate One-House Budget Analysis - O'Donnell & Associates

O'Donnell & Associates' One-House budget analysis of New York's FY27 Assembly and Senate proposals—covering taxes, housing, healthcare, education, and more. Read here!

Other issues that still need to be ironed out include New York City’s looming $5.4 billion budget gap, with Mamdani and his progressive allies in the legislature pushing for increases in corporate and personal income taxes. Hochul has insisted there will be no tax increases, but is committed to working with Mamdani to plug the budget gap, saying last week, “We’ll also find a path to help the city.” Hochul is also working with the legislature to find a mutually agreeable package of bills to codify immigrant protections and combat what they see as federal overreach. Among the measures being considered are a ban on formal cooperation agreements between local law enforcement agencies and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, known as 287(g) agreements; prohibiting federal immigration authorities from entering sensitive locations like schools, hospitals, and houses of worship; and the creation of a law to allow New Yorkers to sue federal immigration officers for alleged violations of their civil rights.  

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To make the case for her desired policy proposals, Hochul has been traversing the state and holding rallies in Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, and Long Island. The rallies have promoted her “Let Them Build” agenda, focusing primarily on affordability, expediting housing development, and increasing access to childcare. 

Supreme Court Declines to Hear Challenge to New York's Even-Year Election Law

The state Court of Appeals ruled in October that the law is constitutional. More from Spectrum News.

In election news, the U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear a case challenging the constitutionality of a New York law that moves almost all local elections to even-numbered years to align with federal election cycles. The law was originally passed in 2023, with proponents arguing that streamlined elections would reduce costs for municipalities and increase turnout for local races. The Supreme Court was the last hope for Republicans seeking to invalidate the law, after the New York Court of Appeals affirmed its constitutionality in October. Senator James Skoufis, the author of the law, offered last week, “Democracy won today—again—and every Republican who set their constituents’ money on fire as they waged this pathetic, no-chance effort owes their taxpayers an apology.”  

In Florida, Democrats flipped two legislative seats in last week’s special election, including the state House district in Palm Beach County that includes Trump’s home of Mar-a-Lago. Emily Gregory, a first-time candidate with a background in public health and mental health administration, defeated Republican Jon Maples, a financial planner who previously held a local council seat. The victory will not change the Florida Legislature's Republican supermajority, but will certainly energize Democrats heading into November’s midterm election. While Democrats have traditionally overperformed in special elections, the GOP incumbent—then-state Rep. Mike Caruso—won the House District 87 by 19 points in 2024. A nice victory for Democrats. 

Finally, a diaper-wearing kangaroo is on the run in Wisconsin. Startled by two barking dogs, Chesney cleared the fence at a petting zoo and has been spotted bouncing all over town, but so far, has eluded capture. Read on!

 -Jack O’Donnell

Jack goes ‘From the Lobby’ with a budget update and more: 🎙️Climate/immigration debate 🎙️Mamdani’s new strategy 🎙️Lawler’s limos & Blakeman’s struggles

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“Meet the Team” is our new podcast series highlighting the people who drive our firm’s success. This week, we’re introducing you to the newest face on the OD&A staff, Peter McGowan!

The WNY native, experienced in campaigns and government relations, is already in the mix in Albany. We get into: 🎙️When this career path first clicked for him 🎙️How government decisions actually happen 🎙️Life in Albany 🎙️Movie obsession & favorite sports teams

OD&A’s Marc Cohen on LinkedIn: Great to Welcome NYS Office of General Services Commissioner Jeanette Moy to The Strong Museum of Play  

We’re grateful for Commissioner Moy’s engagement and thoughtful exploration of the museum’s approach to visitor experience, programming, and design. As New York looks to the future of its flagship cultural institutions, there is real value in learning from models like The Strong, which deliver exceptional experiences and meaningful impact. Read more!

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Several UB Programs Rank Among the Top 50 in the U.S.

Ranked among the country’s top 10 for dentistry, the School of Dental Medicine highlights UB rankings. Read on!

The 2026 Above & Beyond: Women

City & State is pleased to present the remarkable women leaders who are moving New York forward. Read on!

Read more.

March 30, 1981: President Ronald Reagan is shot and wounded in an assassination attempt by John Hinckley, Jr; three others, including press secretary James Brady, are also wounded. Take a look back here. Watch here how it changed presidential security.

Photo courtesy of Reagan Library

26 New York State Trip Ideas Want to get away without leaving New York State? Here is a list of must-see trips and can’t-miss events in 2026. Check it out!

Monday Morning Memo has won two PRSA Excalibur Awards.

OD&A is ranked #7 among WNY’s fastest growing companies for 2025.

CSNY names OD&A a 2025 Top Place to Work!

Governor Hochul on X

Good morning from Albany, New York, where there are eight days left before the state budget is due, and most of us are preparing for budget overtime! Governor Kathy Hochul’s push to revisit and delay the state’s 2019 flagship climate law, the Climate Leadership & Community Protection Act (CLCPA), has dashed the hopes of legislators and lobbyists hoping for an on-time, or at least a more realistic timely, final budget.

Gov. Hochul Op-ed: Climate Action and Affordability Can and Must Go Hand-In-Hand

Read in Empire Report.

In an op-ed in the Empire Report last week, Hochul unveiled changes she is seeking to the CLCPA, focusing mainly on extending the deadlines for emission-reduction mandates. Hochul offered, “We need more time, and so I am proposing we amend the law to require regulations to reduce statewide greenhouse gas emissions to be issued at the end of 2030. We are seeking to change what emission limits the regulations are tied to—including a new 2040 target as well as the existing 2050 statewide emission limits. Nothing else in the CLCPA is changing regarding the existing statewide emission limit targets, and these new regulations would still require the state to make timely progress, ensuring long-term policy stability.” Hochul is also interested in changing how the state measures its progress on climate goals, writing, “Additionally, we need to change the accounting methodology we use to count emissions to align with the international standards used by the global community and nearly every other U.S. state. Otherwise, these impossible emission reduction targets… only used by NY and one other state… will ensure our failure despite all of our efforts and billions of dollars spent.” 

NY Renews Coalition Responds to Governor Hochul’s Proposal to Weaken New York’s Climate Law

Read its statement here.

Unsurprisingly, environmental advocates are not pleased with Hochul’s proposed rollbacks and will be turning up the heat on members of the legislature to keep the law intact. Liz Moran, a New York policy advocate at Earthjustice, told reporters, “One thing to know, is the Climate Law that the governor is seeking to now roll back through secret backdoor budget negotiations, has been the law of New York state for seven years. The governor has been in office for five of those years, and rather than put the law in place, implement the law and start cutting these high energy bills New Yorkers are suffering from, the governor is looking to roll back this key tool.” Earlier this month, 29 of the 41 Democratic state Senators signed onto a letter affirming that they “categorically oppose any effort to roll back New York’s nation leading climate law,” indicating Hochul will have her work cut out for her in negotiations. 

As Hochul unveils her climate law proposal, the Assembly EnCon chair draws a line.

Glick sees a path to agreement on changing deadlines, but is strongly opposed to altering the accounting methodology. Read more from Spectrum News.

That said, Governors have a lot of power through the budget process. Acknowledging that, Sen. Pete Harckham, Chair of Environmental Conservation, emphasized his deep opposition, but conceded the final budget will likely include changes to the climate law: “If the governor presents something, I believe it will [be in the budget]. The governor is insisting we do it in the budget, and if that’s the case, then we work collaboratively to try to get to a place where she feels she’s not in a jam and we continue to move the state forward.”

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Another point of contention is Hochul’s proposal to change the insurance law in the hope of lowering auto insurance rates for New Yorkers, setting off a high-profile and expensive lobbying campaign between insurance companies and the Trial Lawyers. A key part of her proposal would cap awards for damages, limiting payouts to individuals found to be more than 50% responsible for an accident. The current law on the books allows individuals to recover damages even if they are mostly at fault for the wreck. The other change would limit what is classified as a “serious injury” to prevent massive payouts that are not proportionate to the extent of one’s injuries, with the goal that limiting payouts might bring down premiums for all New Yorkers. Speaking to reporters last week, Hochul said, “New Yorkers deserve this. They need elected officials who are willing to take on the deeply entrenched interests that have prohibited anyone from even retouching reforms in our legal system or going after criminals. We need a little bit more courage in public life these days.”

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The Trial Lawyers Association, a powerful lobby in Albany representing 3,500 civil attorneys, is skeptical of Hochul’s motives, with Trial Lawyers Association President Andrew Finkelstein saying, “All that is occurring is an effort to take away New Yorkers’ rights to fair and adequate compensation when they've been involved in a traumatic event. And the rights that are being taken away result in increased profits to the insurance company, and that's it.”

Jeff Korek, a past president of the Trial Lawyers, had doubts that the proposed changes would lead to lower premiums, telling reporters last week, “The only things that are definite are death and taxes. I’ve never seen taxes go down, and I have no hope whatsoever that insurance companies are going to start refunding premiums to people in New York. It’s a ruse. It’s not going to happen.” 

New York FY27 Assembly & Senate One-House Budget Analysis - O'Donnell & Associates

O'Donnell & Associates' One-House budget analysis of New York's FY27 Assembly and Senate proposals—covering taxes, housing, healthcare, education, and more. Read here!

Hochul also doubled down on her opposition to any tax increases at a Politico NY forum last week. In her remarks, Hochul declared, “Maybe the first step should be to go down to Palm Beach and see who we can bring back home because our tax base has been eroded… I have to look at the fact that we are in competition with other states that have less of a tax burden on their corporations and their individuals.” The remarks come as New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and his progressive allies are pushing for an additional 2% citywide income tax on individuals making more than one million dollars, as well as other revenue raisers like lowering the estate tax threshold. 

What’s behind the recent buzz around a unified #Ireland?

LISTEN as our Jack O'Donnell goes ‘From the Lobby’ to explain. Also:🎙️Budget vibe in Albany🎙️Can the governor win climate & auto insurance reforms?🎙️War vote & SAVE Act

In legislative news, New York Attorney General Letitia James is putting her powerful political support behind a bill aimed at preventing surveillance pricing via electronic shelf labels (ESLs). James joined lawmakers and labor unions, including the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) and Retail, Wholesale, and Department Stores Unions (RWDSU), to rally against the practice, which uses algorithmic data to set prices tailored to individual shoppers. In her remarks, James offered, “This online pricing model hits hardest where it hurts the most—food, medicine, diapers, and other essentials. We all have all been focused on the issue of affordability across this state.” The legislation is sponsored by Deputy Senate Majority Leader Michael Gianaris and Assembly Member Michaelle Solages. 

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On the campaign side, Hochul and New York Democrats launched a seven-figure ad campaign last week highlighting the relationship between her GOP opponent, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, and President Donald Trump. Titled “Suck Up,” the ad portrays Blakeman as unable and unwilling to stand up to Trump, who remains deeply unpopular in the state. In response, Blakeman quipped, “For four years, New Yorkers have been told to ‘suck up’ higher taxes, rising utility bills, soaring insurance costs, and skyrocketing rent under Kathy Hochul. It’s no surprise she’s resorting to attacks instead of answering for the affordability crisis created on her watch.” The most recent public poll, conducted by Siena University, found Hochul with a 20-point lead in a head-to-head matchup against Blakeman. 

Illinois held its primary elections last week. Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton defeated a crowded primary field to replace retiring Senator Dick Durbin. The real winner, however, may be Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, who staked considerable cache, as well as millions of dollars, to help Stratton defeat front-runner Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi and all but ensure that Democrats will elect another Black woman to the Senate. It was a risky move for Pritzker, who is trying to raise his profile in the party as he mulls a potential 2028 presidential run, given that the Congressional Black Caucus—which supported Rep. Robin Kelly—warned Pritzker that his meddling in the race could split the Black vote and deny either Black candidate from ascending to the Senate. Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller won the open primary for Illinois’ 2nd District, ending Former Illinois Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr.’s comeback bid after his resignation over a decade ago amid a federal corruption investigation. Jackson, who ultimately served prison time after pleading guilty to misusing $750,000 in campaign funds, had the support of AI stakeholders after signaling openness to the industry, but was unable to overcome Miller’s consolidated political support and contributions from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). 

Opinion | How AIPAC Became a Liability for Democrats in Illinois

Paul Waldman: AIPAC’s goal of keeping Israel a bipartisan cause looks increasingly endangered. Read more on MS NOW.

It was a mixed night for AIPAC as the group has seen a diminished ability to impact Democratic races. In addition to the Miller win, AIPAC’s preferred candidate in Illinois’ 8th District, former Rep. Melissa Bean, defeated a handful of progressive candidates thanks in part to the $4 million AIPAC poured into the race. However, in another high-profile primary, Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss won Tuesday’s Democratic primary to succeed Rep. Jan Schakowsky in Illinois’s 9th District. Biss, who has an Israeli mother and has been a vocal critic of Israel’s war in Gaza, defeated social media influencer Kat Abughazaleh, a Palestinian American, and state Senator Laura Fine, AIPAC’s endorsed candidate. 

In case you missed it, check out this fascinating story about our new favorite band. 

Also, special congratulations to Junior Associate Thomas O’Donnell. Last week, his academic performance saw him named to the Fifth Grade Honor Roll!  Marina and I could not be more proud.

Finally, in Trump’s Washington, status isn’t subtle, it’s worn. You can spot it on someone’s feet. A polished pair of leather oxfords, straight from the president himself. Read on!

florsheim.com

 -Jack O’Donnell

Jack on the Albany vibe & more: 🎙️Uphill battle on climate & auto insurance reforms 🎙️Unified Ireland & Jack’s Gaelic message 🎙️War vote & SAVE Act in D.C.

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“Meet the Team” is our new podcast series highlighting the people who drive our firm’s success. This week, we’re flipping the script. Usually, our Joanna Pasceri is the one asking the questions. Today, she’s in the hot seat!

She sits down with OD&A’s Ralph Ortega, VP of Public Affairs, to talk about her journey. Two former reporters. One conversation: 🎙️TV show that inspired her to pursue journalism 🎙️Memorable moments from a longtime TV News career 🎙️Job transitions and OD&A 🎙️What she misses about media and what she doesn’t!

Left to right are: FCNY Executive Vice President Dr. Aldrin Bonilla; Betsy Plum, executive director of the Riders Alliance; Tara N. Gardner, executive director of the Day Care Council of New York; Marjorie D. Parker, CEO and president of JobsFirstNYC; Jerome Nathaniel, director of policy and government relations at City Harvest; and FCNY President Lisette Nieves.

OD&A, led by VP of Public Affairs, Ralph R. Ortega, was honored to join our client, the Fund for the City of New York, for a news conference highlighting its latest “True Cost of Living” report, which underscores the financial strain facing households across New York City.

BronxNet

The report finds that 46% of working-age households are unable to cover essential expenses, including housing, childcare, food, healthcare, transportation, and taxes.

While this marks a slight improvement from the 50% recorded at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the change is modest and largely driven by shifts in household composition and a strengthening labor market, rather than a true easing of affordability pressures.

“While the labor market has strengthened since the pandemic, the underlying costs of living in New York remain extraordinarily high,” said Lisette Nieves, president of the Fund for the City of New York. “Housing and childcare continue to represent some of the largest financial pressures facing families across the city.” Read the report here.

René Jones: M&T Looks to Build on Success to Reshape It for Growth

Read more in Buffalo Business First.

John B. Gibson, Jr. on LinkedIn: Paychex Named One of the World’s Most Ethical Companies

I am thrilled to announce that Paychex has once again been named one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies®, marking our 18th time earning this elite honor from Ethisphere. This recognition reflects the enduring strength of our values-driven culture and the integrity with which our teams operate. It also underscores our continued commitment to responsible corporate citizenship and our long-standing support of the communities where we live and work. #PaychexProud

Overlooked No More: Eleanor Abbott, the Creator of Candy Land

She invented the game nearly 80 years ago to distract children who were suffering in the hospital during a polio outbreak. Read more in the NY Times.

More parade pictures here!

Upstate NY Burger Joints Battle for Best Hosted by the New York Beef Council, the competition features 42 nominees from across the state, including The Butcher’s Son located inside OD&A client, the Corning Museum of Glass. Read on!

Monday Morning Memo has won two PRSA Excalibur Awards.

OD&A is ranked #7 among WNY’s fastest growing companies for 2025.

CSNY names OD&A a 2025 Top Place to Work!

NYS Senate Photo/Facebook

Good morning from Pindar’s Corner, Delaware County. Today is the birthday of Daniel Patrick Moynihan. 

Moynihan had an incredible career as Ambassador to India and the United Nations, a member of the administrations of Presidents Kennedy, Johnson, and Nixon, and Governor Averell Harriman’s staff, while also serving four terms as a senator from New York. He was a leader on tax issues, foreign policy, & delivering for New York State. His insistence on principle over politics, his foresight in policy, and his academic & intellectual talents are sorely missed today. I often recall one quote from his book, The Politics of a Guaranteed Income: “No one is innocent after the experience of governing. But not everyone is guilty.”

Daniel Patrick Moynihan, 1969. Photo: britannica.com

In Albany, budget season is in earnest after the Senate and Assembly passed their respective One-House budget resolutions last week, staking out their positions as they enter negotiations with the Executive Chamber. Today, the “Mothership” will meet. That is the General Budget Conference Committee, where lawmakers will give their statutorily required update on the status of the final budget.

The OD&A team, led by Chief of Staff Diane Ong and VP & Policy Director Jim Moore, has prepared One-House budget summaries for both the Assembly and Senate, available here.

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A couple of key areas of contention:

Climate

Governor Kathy Hochul and the Legislature remain at odds over the fate of the state’s 2019 landmark climate law, which mandates aggressive emission-reduction targets. Hochul continues to raise the specter of skyrocketing costs of compliance with that law and is expected to use the budget to codify rollbacks and delays in the law. Speaking to reporters last week, Hochul offered, “It was a world that had not seen a global pandemic that disrupted supply chains… followed by some of the highest inflation we've seen in years, racking up the costs once again. And then let's throw on a hostile, very hostile, administration in Washington that basically eliminates the tax incentives that businesses count on when they're going to make investments in renewable energy.” Hochul has not offered a concrete proposal or specifics; nonetheless, many in the legislature are already skeptical.

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Senator Pete Harckham, Chair of the Senate Environmental Conservation Committee, objected, “It was a painstaking process. It was a very public process, and then for us to attempt to change that in the secrecy of the budget process does not do justice to the law.” Republicans in the legislature have lauded Hochul’s desire to pause implementation of some of the more onerous components of the climate law, with Assembly Minority Leader Ed Ra offering, “The conversations come on the table about making some changes to our energy policy. That's something that we fully agree with.” 

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Taxes

Both the Senate and Assembly proposed tax increases on wealthy New Yorkers and corporations, while Hochul remains steadfast in her position that tax increases are unnecessary and harmful, especially in New York City, where she believes local lawmakers can do more to close the city’s $5.4 billion budget gap. Hochul insisted, “Now it's up to the City Council, and I've had conversations with Council members. They're doing their job too, looking at: Is the budget portrayed the way it needs to be? Are there areas of savings? Are there areas where we can be making adjustments? And so, I'm going to let them do their work.” The Senate proposal includes a 0.5-point increase for individuals earning above $5 million and a 1.75-point increase for corporations earning at least $5 million, while the Assembly proposed a 0.2-point increase for individuals above $5 million and a 2-point increase for corporations with at least $10 million in income. The tax increase is a major priority for New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who is looking for revenue to pay for many of his lofty campaign promises, including universal free buses. Senate Transportation Chair Jeremy Cooney tempered down expectations on free buses last week, telling reporters, “On our way, but not universally.”

To combat what many lawmakers see as federal overreach in immigration enforcement, the Senate and Assembly proposed increasing funding for the state Office of New Americans to $183 million—significantly higher than the $72.4 million included in the Executive Budget. Hochul’s budget includes legislation that affirms the right of sensitive locations, such as churches, hospitals, and schools, to restrict entry to federal immigration authorities without a judicial warrant and provides a pathway for New Yorkers to sue federal officers for alleged violations of their civil rights. Neither House included these proposals; they are pushing for more comprehensive legislation to codify immigrant protections. Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins is looking to get “as close as possible” to the New York for All Act, legislation that prohibits formal or informal cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities. Hochul has not yet gotten on board with New York for All, instead proposing the “Local Cops, Local Crimes Act,” which bans formal cooperation contracts between New York law enforcement and federal agencies. Three-way negotiations are ongoing on this, with the hope of including it in a final budget agreement.

One-House budgets are out… now the bargaining begins! Will there be an on-time budget in NY?

LISTEN as our Jack O'Donnell goes ‘From the Lobby’ with his latest podcast episode.

More broadly, Hochul and the Legislature are hoping for an on-time (or at least timely) budget, although the fight over tax increases could prove especially sticky. 

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Expert Analyzes State Budget One-House Plans, Iran Conflict, and 2026 Elections

Jack joins Casey Bortnick to break down the latest headlines, plus a perfectly placed nod to Carnac the Magnificent, the legendary mind-reader from The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. Check it out!

In political news, Georgia held a Special Election last week to replace former Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene in the state’s 14th Congressional District. Democrat Shawn Harris, a retired Army Brigadier General, ran against former District Attorney Clay Fuller, who has President Donald Trump’s endorsement, along with a plethora of other candidates, with neither leading candidate getting the 50% vote share needed to avoid a runoff in the splintered primary field. While Fuller will be heavily favored in the head-to-head runoff, the seat will remain unfilled for another month as House Republicans navigate a historically low margin. 

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In Mississippi, in a closely watched primary race, Representative Bennie Thompson, the longest-serving Black Democrat in the state's congressional delegation, won his primary for the Second Congressional District amid calls from Democrats across the country for older lawmakers to step aside for a younger generation. Thompson was first elected in 1993. He is one of several Democrats who faced a primary challenge this year from a younger member of his party eager to capitalize on broader frustrations with aging leadership in Washington. Evan Turnage, a lawyer who recently returned to his home state after working as legal counsel for Senator Chuck Schumer of New York, offered a vigorous challenge, but Thompson’s record of steering millions of dollars back home and spending time in the district was enough to keep voters on his side. He remains the top Democrat on the House Homeland Security committee, putting him in line to reclaim the gavel should his party take back the chamber.

Finally, a soccer game the way it is played in our backyard… raw, chaotic, and boiling over with emotion. Tempers erupted during the Brazilian Cup final, and within seconds it turned into a storm of shouting, shoving, and flying jerseys. Read on!

Social media photo

 -Jack O’Donnell

Jack recaps One-House budget proposals: 🎙️How to cover the spending increases 🎙️Climate fight & rebate checks 🎙️Tone for talks & on-time budget?

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“Meet the Team” is our new podcast series highlighting the people who drive our firm’s success. This week, we hear from Emily Sullivan, an OD&A Fellow. Balancing college classes with her work at OD&A, Emily thrives in the fast lane.

In this episode, we find out how Emily keeps it all moving and what she’s learning along the way: 🎙️Earliest political memory 🎙️Long days working on a presidential campaign in a crucial swing state 🎙️Most memorable OD&A experience 🎙️Thesis topic and favorite meal to cook!

We’re proud to celebrate our Senior Associate, Michael Greco, on being named to City & State NY’s 2026 Albany 40 Under 40, a recognition of the next generation shaping government, politics, business, and beyond. Read more about our rising star! City & State writes:

Michael Greco was thinking of becoming an attorney while he was in college, but an encounter with one of Erie County’s top lobbyists changed his career trajectory.

When the Buffalo native was at the University of Pittsburgh, a friend connected him with Jack O’Donnell, who had attended his high school. Greco sent him an email to learn about his practice. “They were looking to bring someone on to start from the bottom rung, so that’s what I did,” he says.

Greco has gotten used to driving on Interstate 90 to Albany, where he has represented several of the firm’s clients. So far, Greco has worked with the Buffalo Zoo to help expand its campus and the Monroe County Water Authority to upgrade its cyberinfrastructure. He has also helped smaller nonprofit health services providers, including Endeavor Health Services and Horizon Health Services, identify funding.

This year, Greco is seeking to establish a motor sports caucus in the Legislature on behalf of the Watkins Glen International racetrack to recognize racing’s impact in the state. “Tourism is a big driver in this region, and when the economy is precarious that’s the first thing people cut,” he says. “We’re looking for the state to help bridge the gaps.”

OD&A was proud to join our client, M&T Bank, for the grand opening of its new full-service branch at 2976 Third Avenue in the Mott Haven neighborhood of The Bronx. The new branch is another step in M&T Bank’s continued investment in New York City, expanding access to banking services for local residents, families, and small businesses.

We were honored to hear remarks from Congressman Ritchie Torres and celebrate alongside NYC President Blair Ridder, Senior Branch Manager Marlon Barrett, and representatives from the offices of Governor Kathy Hochul, Senator Chuck Schumer, Assemblymember Chantel Jackson, State Senator Luis R. Sepúlveda, Speaker Carl Heastie, and Council Member Justin Sanchez.

A great day for the community and for the future of banking in the Bronx!

UB, Broadview Announce $31 Million Partnership

The agreement will result in new names for UB Stadium and Alumni Arena, and financial support for student-athletes and the broader student body. Read on!

OD&A’s Marc Cohen on LinkedIn: Proud to support the Council of Agency Executives of during their advocacy day in Albany today!

We met with state lawmakers to highlight the essential role human service organizations play in our communities, and the urgent need to invest in the human services workforce that supports our most vulnerable neighbors every day. Thank you Senators Jeremy Cooney, Roxanne Persaud, Samra Brouk, and Senator Pam Helming, and Assembly Members Harry Bronson, Josh Jensen, Jennifer Lunsford, Sarah Anderson Clark, and Maritza Davila for making the time!

Trillium Health on LinkedIn: “Community Health Centers were built on a simple idea: Healthcare should be accessible to everyone.”

Trillium Health was proud to host a press conference with Senator Jeremy Cooney, Aqua Porter, the Executive Director of RMAPI, and Lauren Goetz, the owner of Everyday Hands, regarding the Health Equity, Affordability, and Reform Act (HEARA), which would allow New Yorkers to buy into the state's Essential Plan. Jason Barnecut-Kearns, Trillium Health's President and CEO, said, "Community Health Centers were built on a simple idea: healthcare should be accessible to everyone. At Trillium Health, we're proud to serve everyone regardless of their ability to pay. However, Community Health Centers are facing mounting financial pressures that could threaten their long-term stability. We applaud Senator Cooney for proposing a solution that would provide comprehensive healthcare coverage for patients and allow safety net providers to continue to provide primary care and wrap-around services to underserved communities."

OD&A’s Jim Moore and Peter McGowan enjoyed a corned beef dinner in Albany with the American Irish Legislators Society of New York State in celebration of St. Patrick!

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Read here!

March 16, 1985: AP reporter Terry Anderson is abducted in Beirut by Islamic militants and held captive for more than six years. His sister, Peggy Say of Batavia, tirelessly campaigned for her brother’s release, lobbying world leaders and the U.S. government to secure his freedom. Anderson died in 2024 at age 76.

Anderson welcomed home to Ohio in June 1992. Photo By Paul M. Walsh

Irish Pubs in Upstate NY: 17 Places with Authentic Food & Drink Looking for a spot to raise a pint of Guinness, dig into a bowl of Irish beef stew, and maybe even dance a jig? Read on!

Monday Morning Memo has won two PRSA Excalibur Awards.

OD&A is ranked #7 among WNY’s fastest growing companies for 2025.

CSNY names OD&A a 2025 Top Place to Work!

Photo: NYS Assembly Majority

Good morning from Albany, New York, where all eyes are on the Senate and Assembly as we wait for their respective One-House Budget resolutions, expected later today. More on that below. 

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As we predicted last week, the U.S. Supreme Court intervened in New York’s redistricting fight, staying a lower court decision that would have likely flipped control of the 11th Congressional District from Republicans to Democrats. In January, a New York State Supreme Court judge ruled that the 11th District, which includes Staten Island and parts of Brooklyn, was drawn in a way that dilutes the power of Black and Latino voters in violation of the state Constitution. The timing of the Supreme Court’s intervention is a bit unusual given that the appeals process is still playing out in state court, but Justice Samuel Alito defended the timing in his decision, writing, “there is an unacceptably strong possibility that the applicants’ appeal in the state court system will not conclude until it is too late for us to review the ultimate decision.” Justice Sonia Sotomayor disagreed, writing in her dissent, “By granting these applications, the Court thrusts itself into the middle of every election-law dispute around the country, even as many States redraw their congressional maps ahead of the 2026 election. It also invites parties searching for a sympathetic ear to file emergency applications directly with this Court, without even bothering to ask the state courts first.”

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The decision is a win for the GOP in general and Rep. Nicole Malliotakis in particular, as she would have faced an uphill reelection battle had the proposed redraw gone into effect.

On social media, Malliotakis offered, “The plaintiffs in this case attempted to manipulate our state’s courts to use race as a weapon to rig our elections. That was wrong and, as demonstrated by today’s ruling, clearly unconstitutional. Unfortunately, the politicization of New York’s courts and its judges necessitated action from the nation’s highest court. I thank the Justices who stopped the voters on Staten Island and in Southern Brooklyn from being stripped of their ability to elect a representative who reflects their values.”

Your budget questions answered! OD&A’s Ralph R. Ortega, VP of Public Affairs, was in Midtown Manhattan as Citizens Budget Commission President Andrew Rein hosted New York State Budget Director Blake Washington for a wide-ranging conversation on New York’s fiscal future. Read the interview here!

In New York news, the Division of Budget (DOB), members from both Chambers of the Legislature, and the Comptroller’s office released their Consensus Economic and Revenue Forecast Report, a key milestone in the budget process that informs how much money lawmakers have to work with. There were some differences between the DOB and Democrats in the Legislature over revenue projections, with legislators suggesting receipts could be anywhere from $1.5 billion to $1.9 billion higher than originally projected by the DOB. In the end, the group came to a more conservative estimate, with the report concluding, “The revenue estimates from all parties for FY 2026 and projections for FY 2027 exhibited significant variance, but participants reached consensus on a two-year revenue total range that is $700 million to $800 million above the Executive Budget estimate.” 

It’s a🔥proposal right now… but is hiking taxes on the wealthy in NY a good move?

LISTEN as our Jack O'Donnell goes ‘From the Lobby’ to discuss the drawbacks of this idea. Also:🎙️Who’s Bruce?🎙️Are lawmakers in line for a big raise?🎙️Incentive to reuse empty office space

Nonetheless, lawmakers in the Senate and Assembly will include a proposal to increase personal income taxes in their budget resolutions this week, putting them at odds with Governor Kathy Hochul’s pledge of no new taxes. Proposing additional revenue raisers is nothing new for the state legislature, but the issue is particularly acute (and drawing additional scrutiny) this year, given New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s support for the measure as well as his threats to raise property taxes in New York City if Albany does not increase tax rates on New Yorkers making over $1 million. Mamdani is also pushing for a hike in the corporate tax rate from 9% to 10.8% for financial firms and from 8.85% to 10.62% for non-financial firms. Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins has remained noncommittal on the specifics of her conference’s tax proposals, but told reporters last week, “In general, we have always believed in this progressive tax structure. We’ve always put forth ways that we can meet the needs of New Yorkers.”

Jack on WBEN’S Hardline with Joe Beamer: 🥊Kristi Noem’s firing 🥊Siena poll: Governor’s race, energy fight, affordability 🥊Primary election in NY Senate District 61 & race for Rep. Elise Stefanik’s seat

Give it a listen starting at 11 am!

Increasing taxes on the wealthy is certainly politically popular, with a recent Siena poll finding New York voters support the Governor and Legislature allowing New York City to raise personal income taxes on City residents earning at least $1 million by a margin of 54-29%. Expect Hochul to continue to draw a line in the sand in opposition.

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Another major point of disagreement between the Executive and the legislature is climate; lawmakers are waiting for the other shoe to drop after a memo released by the Hochul administration outlined the cost increases associated with implementing parts of the state’s 2019 Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA), specifically the provision known as "cap and invest.” Hochul has not yet publicly called for rollbacks to the CLCPA, but offered last week, “What I’m trying to do is sound the alarm. What I’m foreseeing, then, is for us to meet the goals on the timetable set by the Legislature. There’s going to be enormous costs to families.” Some of her top aides have met with leadership in the legislature and relevant committee chairs, but most lawmakers remain unconvinced or unclear on the next steps. Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said last week, “I just want to know what the proposal is, so at this point, I don’t know what there is to discuss. Obviously, there is a memo, and obviously, we are committed to affordability, and we have always said we want to do things right by the environment.” Assemblymember Deborah Glick, Chair of the Assembly Environmental Conservation Committee, is not in favor of watering down the CLCPA, especially if it is rushed through the budget process, telling reporters, “They have floated some trial balloons, most of which have gone pop,” later adding, “Every executive likes to use the pressure of the budget to hold the Legislature hostage. We should have a thorough discussion of where we are going. If anything, it should not be part of the budget.” Hochul has made affordability the centerpiece of her reelection campaign, and the associated costs of implementing the CLCPA, estimated at $4,000 for Upstate households and $2,300 for New York City households, would complicate her messaging.  

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Medicaid—and health spending in general—continues to rise, and there will be some budget issues, including changing policies to support realities around Medicaid coverage in the post-H.R.1 world, funding to support continued innovation in health systems throughout the state, investment of the remaining MCO tax revenue, as well as thornier policy issues such as the Governor’s proposed carveout of Medicaid from the Independent Dispute Resolution (IDR) Entity.

The DOJ is set to file suit against the Hochul administration over the allegedly rigged revamp of NY’s $11B Medicaid home care program.

The feds will file a formal complaint in the coming weeks, per three sources familiar with the DOJ’s ongoing investigation. Read more in the NY Post.

However, there is a broader consensus in Albany not to go too deep into these health issues in this (election) year. That détente does not extend to Washington: The United States Department of Justice announced a coming lawsuit against the Hochul administration for the handling of the state’s revamped Medicaid home care program. Last year, New York transitioned from hundreds of fiscal intermediaries to just one, Public Partnerships LLC (PPL), to run the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) in an effort to find cost savings. DOJ is alleging that the process may not have been above board, focusing on allegations of bid rigging and noncompliance with Medicaid billing rules. Emails unearthed by the Empire Center show that two Hochul aides were discussing transition details with PPL several weeks before lawmakers formally approved the solicitation of bids. Hochul downplayed the lawsuit when asked about it last week, telling reporters, “I don’t know what they’re doing. This is the federal government. This is just another list of areas where they’re using their power to go after blue states only, blue states.” Hochul has stood by the controversial transition decision even as advocates, patients, and some Democratic lawmakers have expressed frustration and called for an extended window for the transition to PPL, citing the projected $1 billion in savings. DOJ has lost much of its professional luster, but Democratic legislators have also hit this issue and the Hochul administration very hard during this transition. Much more to come here.

The 2026 midterm campaign season continued in earnest last week, with Texas and North Carolina holding primary elections. In Texas, both Republicans and Democrats had high-profile, and extremely expensive, primary races for the Senate seat currently held by Senator John Cornyn. On the Democratic side, State Rep. James Talarico, a Presbyterian seminarian and former teacher, defeated two-term Rep. Jasmine Crockett 52.5% to 46.2% to be the Democratic nominee in November. Talarico, 36, campaigned on the need to draw in independents and moderate Republicans (and love), while Crockett focused on her brand as a fighter against Trump and Congressional Republicans. This split—growing the vote share by making inroads outside the party versus exciting the party’s base vote—is increasingly playing out in primaries across the country, and the details of this race—marked by extremely high turnout—bear further scrutiny.

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Results were less definitive on the GOP side, with incumbent Senator John Cornyn and state attorney general Ken Paxton heading for a runoff after neither candidate received more than 50% of the vote. That runoff, scheduled for May 26th, is the worst-case scenario for the GOP, as both candidates will have to spend the next two months in an extended primary fight rather than focus time and resources on Talarico for the general. Paxon, who has been marred in corruption allegations and whose wife recently filed for divorce on “biblical grounds,” has portrayed himself as the anti-establishment candidate, telling his supporters last week, “We just sent a message, loud and clear, to Washington. We are not going to go quietly, and we are not going to let you buy the seat.”

Cornyn, who has been in the Senate since 2002, pointed to Paxton’s vulnerabilities in a general election, with his PAC saying in a statement, “Paxton's problems aren't just an issue in a Republican primary; they also threaten to put the Senate seat at risk due to his lack of strength against Democrat nominee Talarico.”

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Trump is expected to make an endorsement in the coming days—hinting at endorsing Cornyn—and has called on the non-endorsed candidate to drop out so the party can focus on November. The voters most loyal to Trump have backed Paxon. Hmm.

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The races were less competitive and controversial in North Carolina, with former Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper and former Republican National Committee Chair Michael Whatley easily winning their respective primaries. Recruiting Cooper to run was seen as a major get for Democrats, given that he has won statewide in a state that Trump won three times. Whatley got the Republican nod and Trump’s endorsement last year after the president’s daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, declined to run for the seat being vacated by Republican Senator Thom Tillis. North Carolina is one of the swingiest states and will be instrumental in deciding if Democrats can close the gap in the Senate next year, and the Cook Political Report currently scores the race as a true toss-up. 

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In a late plot twist, Montana Senator Steve Daines announced he will not be seeking reelection, becoming the sixth GOP Senator to bow out of Congress. In a statement, Daines said, “Serving the people of Montana in the U.S. House and U.S. Senate the past 13 years has been the greatest honor of my professional career, and I am grateful to God for allowing me to serve. After wrestling with this decision for months, I have decided I will not seek re-election.” Unlike his other colleagues, the process and timing of Daines’ decision to retire are raising some eyebrows. In an effort to avoid a pesky primary for his hand-picked successor, Daines withdrew his candidacy only minutes before the state’s filing deadline. Four minutes later, Montana U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme filed paperwork to succeed him. Seth Bodnar, the former president of the University of Montana running as an independent, criticized the move, saying, “Steve Daines has so little respect for Montana Republicans that he withdrew at the last minute to coronate his handpicked successor instead of giving them a voice at the ballot box.” This further ensured that no bigger-name Democrat would revisit the race (even though it seems clear now that none of them would have). When Democratic Rep. Jesús “Chuy” Garcia pulled a similar stunt last November, the GOP-led House of Representatives formally censured him for “undermining the process of a fair and free election.” Probably not worth holding your breath to see if the GOP-controlled Senate exercises any ideological consistency. Montana is also looking at an open House race after Congressman Ryan Zinke announced his retirement.

Finally, porch pirates are everywhere these days, but a Florida family got a thief no one saw coming. A Ring camera caught the culprit sniffing around the front door & going after a package. Check it out!

 -Jack O’Donnell

Jack goes ‘From the Lobby’ to talk: 🎙️Blakeman’s recognition problem 🎙️Intensifying tax the rich fight 🎙️Bill to hike legislators’ salaries 🎙️SCOTUS redistricting ruling

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“Meet the Team” is our new podcast series highlighting the people who drive our firm’s success. This week, we hear from OD&A’s VP and Policy Director Jim Moore.

From healthcare funding to emerging tech, Jim works at the center of NY’s biggest issues. In this episode, we talk: 🎙️Storm recovery while serving in Sen. Schumer’s state office 🎙️The challenges facing healthcare nonprofits 🎙️Securing major funding wins 🎙️The Buffalo Sabres’ shot at a playoff run!

Delaware North's New COO Leads Shift to Experiential Hospitality

The $4.4B hospitality company is eyeing growth in collegiate sports venues and cabin-style lodging near national parks as part of its new strategy. Read more in Buffalo Business First. Photo by Mark Mulville.

M&T's René Jones: 'Rorschach Economy' Makes Future Murky

"Like the inkblot test, what you see depends on who you are," wrote M&T Bank CEO René Jones. Read more in Buffalo Business First. Photo by Joed Viera.

League of Legends Among 2026 Video Game Hall of Fame Finalists

The Strong National Museum of Play revealed the 12 finalists for the 2026 World Video Game Hall of Fame, from League of Legends to Frogger. Read more in the Rochester Business Journal.

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Read more!

March 9, 1979: MLB orders all teams to grant female reporters equal locker room access. This followed a 1978 federal ruling in Ludtke v. Kuhn, which found that banning Sports Illustrated reporter Melissa Ludtke from the 1977 World Series locker rooms violated her 14th Amendment rights.

Design by Tom Forget. Photos courtesy Melissa Ludtke. Read her trailblazing story here!

Rochester is the No. 1 City in America for First-Time Homebuyers Find out how other Upstate NY cities stack up. Check out the list here!

Monday Morning Memo has won two PRSA Excalibur Awards.

OD&A is ranked #7 among WNY’s fastest growing companies for 2025.

CSNY names OD&A a 2025 Top Place to Work!

The White House on X

Good morning from Boston, Massachusetts. Today is the birthday of DeWitt Clinton.

The United States Senator, New York Governor, and (appointed) Mayor of New York City was the most influential advocate of and steward for the construction of the Erie Canal, a monumental feat that transformed New York and the entire United States. Clinton was a candidate for president in 1812, running a mostly forgotten, but rather competitive campaign against James Madison.

Gov. Clinton

During Madison’s presidency (and for the period of 1801 to 1913), the president’s Annual Address or State of the Union was delivered in written form. Woodrow Wilson changed that, and last week, President Donald Trump delivered his first State of the Union address of his second term, breaking the record for the longest address to Congress, speaking for an hour and forty-seven minutes. 

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Trump stressed his immigration agenda during the speech, routinely trying to goad Democrats into standing or applauding. With four Supreme Court Justices in attendance, Trump defiantly stated that he still had broad authority to levy tariffs despite the Court’s recent ruling to the contrary, and at one point told lawmakers, “Congressional action will not be necessary.” Some Democrats ignored pleas from leadership for decorum and to avoid outbursts, with Rep. Al Green (D-TX) prominently displaying a sign that read “Black people aren’t apes!”—a reference to a clip posted by Trump earlier this month that depicted the Obamas as apes. Trump, always the showman, awarded the Medal of Honor to a helicopter pilot injured during the raid to capture Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, and announced he was awarding the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Connor Hellebuyck, the goaltender of the gold medal-winning US men’s Olympic hockey team. 

Trump's signature flair and strong denunciation of everyone who disagrees with him will have played well with his base, but fell short on feeling Americans’ pain in the economy. Instead, his insistence that economic indicators prove economic progress (that many working families do not feel) sounded vaguely Biden-esque. Nonetheless, Trump successfully framed, once again, the threat of unfettered immigration (and the Trump administration's response to it) as a simple choice between Republicans and Democrats. This is an issue that Trump himself and Republicans more broadly used to win across the board in 2024 and expect to hear much more of it as we approach the 2026 elections.

In New York, the state legislature wrapped up the final joint legislative budget hearings last week and will now turn its attention to finalizing One-House budget proposals. Both the legislature and Governor Kathy Hochul are keen to avoid any public budget fights in an election year, but disagreements on issues, especially energy and taxes, remain complicated.

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Last week, the Hochul administration circulated a memo outlining the need to change the 2019 Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA), with changes intended to combat rising energy costs. The memo reads in part, “Absent changes, by 2031, the impact of CLCPA on the price of gasoline could reach or exceed $2.23 per gallon on top of current prices at that time; the cost for an MMBtu of natural gas $16.96; and comparable increases to other fuels. Upstate oil and natural gas households would see costs in excess of $4,000 a year, and New York City natural gas households could anticipate annual gross costs of $2,300. Only a portion of these costs could be offset by current policy design.” Speaking to reporters last week, Hochul added, “The world has changed dramatically since 2019—I wish it hadn’t. I’m not going to telegraph what we’re talking about in our negotiations, but I think everybody knows that we have a real problem on our hands.”

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Any changes to the state’s landmark climate law will of course require the cooperation of the legislature, and while there may be an appetite for that among Republicans and some Upstate and Long Island Democrats, Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins reiterated last week that her conference is not considering watering down climate protections, telling reporters, “That's not a conversation that we've had.” These difficult choices also seem to be part of the Hochul push to reform the SEQRA process, where many of the considerations that builders and developers see as “delays” are seen by environmentalists as “protections.”

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The debate over energy affordability is spilling over onto the campaign trail as well, with Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman promising he will cut utility bills in half, though his campaign did not provide many details. The pledge is part of a $700,000 ad spend on Facebook targeting Hochul for rising energy bills, with the ad saying, “Utility bills are sky high—and it’s Kathy Hochul’s fault.” In a statement, Blakeman said he would “return $2 billion in unspent NYSERDA funds to ratepayers, cut utility taxes, and eliminate hidden fees in your utility bills. I’ll repeal costly mandates, and I will expand production with natural gas, nuclear, and ‘clean coal’ to increase supply, lower prices, and break New Yorkers’ dependence on expensive, unreliable energy.” Some energy experts, including former Public Service Commissioner John Howard, do not believe Blakeman’s plan is feasible, with Howard offering, “You can’t go half. Nowhere can you go half unless you move to major disinvestment.” 

New York State FY2027 Executive Budget Overview

Comprehensive analysis of Governor Hochul's FY2027 Executive Budget. Expert review of $260B budget covering healthcare, education, housing, transportation, and economic development policy.

The Executive Chamber and the Legislature will also have to resolve the ultimatum on taxes foisted upon them by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. In his budget presentation last month, Mamdani said he would be forced to raise property taxes in New York City if Albany does not raise the tax rate on high-income New Yorkers. Thousands of advocates (with matching hats!) descended on the Capitol last week to drive that point home, though Hochul did not hear the chants as she was in New York City. Both Hochul and the Legislature are standing firm despite the public and private overtures from Mamdani and his allies, with Stewart-Cousins saying last week, “We’ve always been very clear that we’re not trying to raise taxes on working-class families. That would not, I think, be a winning strategy,” and Speaker Carl Heastie calling property tax increases a “non-starter.”

LISTEN: Jack on the ‘Tax the Rich’ rally and more as he goes ‘From the Lobby’ with his latest podcast:

🎙️Costs too damn high & NY exodus
🎙️Dropping job approval ratings for Schumer & Gillibrand
🎙️Trump’s Biden problem at his SOTU address

State Budget Director Blake Washington shared last week that Hochul has not changed her position on taxes, offering, “The governor believes that no New Yorker is dispensable. And she believes that none of this is inevitable—that the performance and the wonderful things we have in New York state that are funded by persons of high income, by businesses, it’s not inevitable.” 

OD&A’s Ralph R. Ortega, VP of Public Affairs, was in Midtown Manhattan as Citizens Budget Commission President Andrew Rein sat down with NYS Budget Director Blake Washington to talk: 🔎Budget Outlook, 🏛️Federal Changes, 🗽NYC Fiscal Crisis, 💰Taxes Read on!

Housing remains a focus for the Legislature, and a proposal from Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes is picking up steam among her colleagues in Albany. The proposal would provide a tax credit to property owners who convert 50% of vacant office space into new residential units.

Proposed tax credit could unlock office-to-apartment conversions across upstate New York.

Read more in Buffalo Business First.

A similar program already exists in New York City, and housing advocates have argued that the tax credit is necessary in Upstate cities to make the projects financially viable. In a statement, Peoples-Stokes said, “The cost of housing has become unaffordable for far too many people in Buffalo and in so many other communities across the state. We need to explore all options to address this problem and ensure as many new residential units as possible enter the market to drive prices down. There is a significant amount of unused office space throughout the state that could be converted to residential units.” Another well-respected legislator, Senator Pat Fahey of Albany, is carrying the legislation in her house. This is an issue to watch.

Read here!

For many lawmakers, this budget season will be their last. While there is always turnover in the Legislature in an election year, this session has seen an unusually high number of members announcing their retirement. In the Senate, Deputy Majority Leader Mike Gianaris, Brian Kavanagh, and Alexis Weik are all retiring at the end of the year. On the Assembly side, former Minority Leader William Barclay, Deborah Glick, Stacey Pheffer Amato, Donna Lupardo, Marianne Buttenschon, Nader Sayegh, Vivian Cook, Kenneth Blankenbush, Brian Manktelow, Angelo Morinello, David McDonough, Daniel Norber, and Keith Brown will be leaving Albany. Remarkable.

We continue to watch the redistricting fight play out across the country, including here in New York. The First Department of the Appellate Division ruled that New York’s Independent Redistricting Commission must draw up a new congressional map in the 11th Congressional District, rejecting a request by Republicans to pause the lower court’s ruling while the appellate process plays out. The decision is likely to result in Democrats gaining an additional seat, though Republicans have asked the United States Supreme Court to step in. Stay tuned.

Those Congressional lines weigh heavily, but so do various primaries. Notable this week was the decision by the Working Families Party to endorse Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso in NY-7. The race to replace retiring Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez is an early test of Mamdani’s political power. The WFP endorsement of Reynoso puts them at odds with Mamdani’s hand-picked candidate, Assemblywoman Claire Valdez.

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Mamdani and his team had been working behind the scenes to lobby the WFP and influential labor unions to back Valdez, though her team sought to downplay Reynoso's endorsement. Morris Katz, an advisor to Mamdani who is also working on the Valdez campaign, offered, “Personal relationships and institutional connections play a significant role in these kinds of decisions. But voters understand the urgent need to change who has power in this country fundamentally, and because of that, Claire Valdez will be a member of Congress come next year.” Jasmine Gripper, the Working Families Party’s Director, pointed to Reynoso’s experience and relationships in the district, saying, “Antonio has the record of delivering for our communities. That put him head and shoulders above others, and got him the overwhelming majority of the vote… At the end of the day, Zohran is an individual who gets to weigh in as an individual.”  

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Mark Schroeder, Commissioner of the Department of Motor Vehicles for the past seven years, announced he will be retiring next month. Schroeder, a Buffalo native, served in the Erie County Legislature and Assembly before being elected as Buffalo City Comptroller. In a statement, Hochul shared, “During my time serving in local government, I saw first-hand both the critical role the DMV plays in the lives of nearly every New Yorker and how its services badly needed modernization. Then, Mark Schroeder stepped in. In his seven years of service, he has transformed this agency, bringing it into the digital age and reinventing how New Yorkers interact with the essential services it provides. A proud son of Buffalo, Commissioner Schroeder has been a model of public service throughout his career, and I join millions of grateful New Yorkers in wishing him a well-earned retirement.” He also dramatically increased the number of New Yorkers registered with Donate Life’s organ registry. Schroeder is a great example of the hardworking, ethically focused, and results-oriented public servant that New Yorkers are so rightly proud to call their own. He will be missed.

Finally, the most feared man in Nebraska state government isn’t a prosecutor—he’s the auditor. Armed with GPS data, he’s been tracking state workers who use government vehicles for personal errands… and he has the receipts to prove it! Read on!

WSJ

 -Jack O’Donnell

Jack goes ‘From the Lobby’ to talk: 🎙️NY’s high cost of living & exodus 🎙️Schumer/Gillibrand poll woes 🎙️Tax the rich momentum? 🎙️Trump’s SOTU problem

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“Meet the Team” is our new podcast series highlighting the people who drive our firm’s success. This week, we hear from OD&A VP of Government Affairs Marc Cohen.

We spoke with the Amherst native, now based in Rochester, about his impressive background spanning both politics and the business community: 🎙️Lure of a career in public service 🎙️Bridging the gap between business and government 🎙️Biggest worry for businesses today 🎙️The apple of his eye!

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Read more about Constance Baker Motley here.

Read more!

March 2, 1903: The Martha Washington Hotel opens at 29 East 29th Street, making history as New York City's first women-only hotel. Created as a safe, independent space for working women and travelers, it filled a major gap at a time when options for unaccompanied women were limited. With rooms starting at $1.50 a day, it quickly became a trusted home base in the city.

Photo from the Bain News Service photograph collection, Library of Congress

Potty-Themed License Plate Gets Support from Governor Hochul A Long Island grandpa thought his license plate idea had tanked until the Governor gave him a call! Check it out!

Monday Morning Memo has won two PRSA Excalibur Awards.

OD&A is ranked #7 among WNY’s fastest growing companies for 2025.

CSNY names OD&A a 2025 Top Place to Work!

Governor Kathy Hochul with NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani on X

Good morning from Albany, New York, where the Capitol is eerily quiet. Today’s Senate and Assembly Legislative Sessions have been cancelled because of the weather impacting New York City. The week’s schedule has been pushed back a day. The Joint Budget Hearings resume tomorrow, with Higher Education beginning later in the day (delayed from 9.30 am until 12:30 pm), before Labor, Housing, Economic Development, and finally, Taxes before the end of the week.

This is the last week of hearings before the Assembly and Senate turn their full attention towards crafting their respective One-House budget proposals. We expect those to be unveiled in the second week of March.

The revised hearing schedule is here. You can watch the discussions live on the Senate and Assembly websites.

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Taxes were front and center as New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani unveiled a $127 billion budget plan last week, a proposal featuring a major property tax hike framed as a Hobbesian choice: either Albany raises taxes on the wealthiest New Yorkers (and send plenty of it to New York City) or city residents would face a tough 9.5% property tax increase (NYC would also draw down $1.2 billion from their “rainy day” fund to close the $5.4 billion budget gap over the next two years). Speaking to reporters at City Hall, Mamdani offered, “There are two paths that we can walk: One that offers long-term stability and a second one with significant pain that we deeply hope to avoid.” Critics of the plan, including Hochul, suggest Mamdani is offering a false choice; that NYC’s budget can be balanced without drastic tax increases. The optics of Mamdani’s threat were a bit messy, coming on the heels of an announcement by Hochul of a further $1.5 billion aid package for New York City. Hochul has been clear and consistent in her opposition to new taxes and in response offered, “I’m not supportive of a property tax increase. I don’t know that that’s necessary, but let’s find out what is really necessary to close that gap.” 

While New York City can raise property taxes without Albany’s sign-off, Mamdani would nonetheless need the support of the City Council and—in another messy codicil to his announcement—Council leadership have their own reservations: City Council Speaker Julie Menin and Finance Chair Linda Lee released a joint statement that reads in part, “At a time when New Yorkers are already grappling with an affordability crisis, dipping into rainy day reserves and proposing significant property tax increases should not be on the table whatsoever.” Taxing the wealthy was a key part of Mamdani’s policy proposals, intended to fund many of his other campaign promises, including free buses and universal childcare. While we expect Hochul to win this fight, Mamdani will be able to show his coalition that he tried. 

In Washington, D.C., discussions between the White House and Democratic leaders regarding funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) appear to be at an impasse, with White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt sharing that the two parties are still “pretty far apart.” Democrats, who believe they have the political momentum following the killing of two protesters in Minneapolis by ICE, are pushing for agents to be unmasked, a tightening of warrant requirements, and an end to roving patrols. Many Republicans in Congress and the Trump White House have said those demands are non-starters: White House Deputy Chief of Staff James Blair offered, “They’re saying right now, OK, we’re going to close DHS until you basically stop enforcing immigration law in this country. We’re not going to do that.” Republicans have little incentive to compromise, given that the DHS shutdown will have no impact on immigration enforcement, thanks to the billions of dollars they received in last year’s “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.”

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Still, the White House insisted they are negotiating in good faith and have pointed to the withdrawal of ICE from Minneapolis and the expansion of body cameras for officers in the field as notable concessions. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries remains unimpressed, telling reporters, “It is our view that immigration enforcement in this country should be fair, it should be just, and it should be humane. That’s not what’s happening right now in the United States of America, and that’s why ICE needs to be reformed in a dramatic, bold, meaningful, and transformational manner. And if that doesn’t happen, the DHS funding bill will not move forward.”  

OD&A on LinkedIn: Big moment. Big stage. What does President Trump need to convey in his State of the Union speech Tuesday?

LISTEN here for our Jack O'Donnell’s take as he goes ‘From the Lobby’ with his latest podcast.

The DHS shutdown—and immigration enforcement more broadly—will be the backdrop for President Trump’s State of the Union Address tomorrow night, as well as some discussion of tariffs (more on that below). A group of Democratic lawmakers is planning to skip Trump’s address and will instead attend the “People’s State of the Union” rally on the National Mall. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), who is among the contingent of Democrats skipping Trump’s speech, commented, “These aren’t normal times, and showing up for this speech puts a veneer of legitimacy on the corruption and lawlessness that has defined his second term.” Trump is ever-present through statements, interviews, and tweets, which frame the SOTU differently than for his predecessors, but Republicans are hoping for a reset (and a refocus) toward economic issues and the affordability challenges so many Americans are facing. Polling continues to show discontent across the electorate and political challenges for Trump and Republicans nationwide, raising the stakes on the speech considerably, even by Trump’s standards, as the midterm elections approach.

In late-breaking news last week, the Supreme Court ruled that President Trump overstepped his authority by imposing tariffs on nearly every U.S. trading partner.

The 6–3 decision will have real impacts for businesses and consumers. Since the start of last year, the federal government has collected more than $200 billion in tariff revenue. The administration had warned that losing the case might mean unraveling trade agreements and potentially issuing sizable refunds, adding another layer of uncertainty to the global trade landscape. Nonetheless, Trump is moving ahead with new tariffs, citing various other grounds for authority. All of that said, this is a developing story, simply the end of the beginning of the tariff discussion, rather than any conclusive resolution, and promises to be a bumpy ride. Combined with Trump’s virulent attack on the Supreme Court and the individual justices in the majority opinion, there will be much more to this story and the reverberations of this decision.

Supreme Court Trump tariff decision impact: What to expect as fight for billions in refunds begins.

The Supreme Court ruling that President Trump's tariffs are illegal will lead companies to seek billions in refunds, but the decision was silent on the issue. Read more from CNBC.

Keep in mind the Supreme Court is expected to have two more decision days next week, when they will make other news, perhaps even on a very important case involving the Voting Rights Act. Buckle up.

Experts Weigh In On 2026 Elections

Albany, N.Y. (NEXSTAR) — “…Dollars and cents of governing… it comes down to pocketbooks,” says Jack O’Donnell of O’Donnell & Associates. Watch here.

Liquor Now Added as Part of Continued Push for Sale of Wine at Grocery Stores Across New York

The fight in Albany continues to allow grocery stores to sell New York wines, but now you can add state-based liquors to the mix as well. "I think the movement around wine, and now liquor in grocery stores is sort of natural," says our Jack O'Donnell. More from WBEN.

Comprehensive Analysis of Governor Hochul's FY2027 Executive Budget

Expert review of the $260B spending proposal covering healthcare, education, housing, transportation, and economic development policy.

Read here!

Goodbye to former New York Congressman Richard Ottinger, who passed away last week at the age of 97. Throughout his two stints in the House, Ottinger was a staunch environmental advocate who is credited with helping to clean up the Hudson River and laying the groundwork for the nation’s nuclear energy regulatory framework.

 -Jack O’Donnell

A Conversation with Barack Obama

President Barack Obama takes the stage at Hamilton College, breaking his public silence to deliver a powerful conversation about democracy, the rule of law, and the role each of us plays in shaping the country’s future. Framed alongside historic presidential speeches, the documentary poses a timely question: Who are we? OD&A is a proud sponsor of this presentation, now available on demand here.

Jack goes ‘From the Lobby’ to talk: 🎙️NYC & Buffalo bailouts 🎙️Mamdani’s tough talk on taxes 🎙️Governor v. State Comptroller 🎙️Trump’s State of the Union

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“Meet the Team” is our new podcast series highlighting the people who drive our firm’s success. This week, we hear from OD&A Senior Associate Michael Greco.

The Buffalo native and St. Joe’s alum has worked on campaigns and has logged time with a former Congressman. We talked: 🎙️His career inspiration 🎙️Misconceptions about government 🎙️Impact of OD&A work 🎙️Best hockey town

OD&A’s Marc Cohen on LinkedIn: Thank you to Senator Samra Brouk’s team (s/o Nikki Lee Carroll and Jenna) for taking the time to meet with the leadership of Endeavor Health Services…

We appreciate the opportunity to discuss the growing demand for emotional wellness and behavioral health services across our community. The conversation underscored the urgent need for sustained investment, workforce support, and policies that expand access to care. We appreciate Senator Brouk’s commitment to ensuring providers have the resources necessary to serve more individuals and families!

OD&A on LinkedIn: Big congratulations to our clients who were named to the Rochester Business Journal’s sixth annual Power 100 list!👏

We’re grateful for all they do to move the city forward, and we’re proud to partner with them in that effort. Here’s to another year of progress and to the following individuals who help make it happen: Ann Marie Cook (Advocacy Chair for Council of Agency Executives), Dan Burns (M&T Bank), Ernest Lamour (YMCA), Jason Barnecut-Kearns (Trillium), Jennifer Lake, SPHR, SHRM-SCP (Goodwill), John B. Gibson, Jr. (Paychex), and Miguel Velazquez (RTS).

2025 Buffalo Zoo Photo Contest – Vote Now!

Check out this fundraiser for the Buffalo Zoo!

For the first time, five Black surgical residents are leading the way at Johns Hopkins Hospital.

Five Black surgical residents have made history at Johns Hopkins Hospital as the first all-Black team of residents to lead the trauma center. Read on!

Read more!

February 23,1945: U.S. Marines raise the flag of the United States on top of Mt. Suribachi, Iwo Jima. The Pulitzer Prize-winning photo by Joe Rosenthal later becomes iconic, inspiring the Marine Corps War Memorial sculpture. The story behind the famous photo here!

Raising the Flag on Iwo Jima, by Joe Rosenthal of the Associated Press

$525K Flag That Covered Lincoln’s Casket Finds Home in NYC Steakhouse The renowned steakhouse, celebrated for its Americana memorabilia, unfurled its latest auction find. Check it out!

Monday Morning Memo has won two PRSA Excalibur Awards.

OD&A is ranked #7 among WNY’s fastest growing companies for 2025.

CSNY names OD&A a 2025 Top Place to Work!

Good morning and Happy Presidents Day from Buffalo, New York, home to two presidents, Millard Fillmore (13th president) and Grover Cleveland (22nd and 24th president), and a presidential inaugural site.  

In big, but not exactly surprising news, Lt. Governor Antonio Delgado suspended his campaign for governor. In a statement, Delgado declared, “I’ve decided to end my campaign for Governor of New York. After much consideration, I’ve concluded that there simply is no viable path forward. And though my campaign has come to an end, I fully intend to do all I can in our effort to build a more humane, affordable, and equitable state that serves all New Yorkers. I will also support Democrats in our effort to hold the line against Trump and take back our democracy.”

Twitter tweet

The decision comes amid the backdrop of an impressive flex from Governor Kathy Hochul, including endorsements from politically powerful labor unions, the entire New York Congressional Delegation, progressive leaders, including New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, and a dominant showing from the Democratic State Committee (earning 85% plus of delegates) combined with Delgado’s own inability to rally support among the progressive wing of the party, particularly the decision by the Working Families Party to nominate a placeholder candidate. Hochul’s strong position—and political support—also come through in recent public polling. Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said Delgado’s decision to suspend his campaign was a “good idea,” and later added, “Clearly, the convention over the last week was very definitive in terms of the people who support the governor.” Free of a primary challenge, the Hochul campaign will now focus all its time and resources on the Republican challenger, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman. 

N.Y. GOP Drama Over Bruce Blakeman's Running Mate Pick

Read more from Spectrum News NY1.

Blakeman has had his own party dynamics to slog through, differences of opinion laid bare at last week’s GOP Convention on Long Island. Blakeman was set to select Fulton County Sheriff Richard Giardino as his running mate before revelations that Giardino had previously filed paperwork to run in the 2024 New Hampshire primary against President Donald Trump, circumstances that led to him being scorned for the ticket. Giardino maintained that it was not a serious challenge, offering, “I did not intentionally hide anything from them, but they were not aware that I had filed in New Hampshire. It was based on a childhood recurring joke that you've run for everything but president.” Nonetheless, Blakeman searched for a more pro-Trump candidate and ultimately settled on Madison County Sheriff Todd Hood. Republicans also nominated Saritha Komatireddy, a federal prosecutor and impressive first-time candidate who outmaneuvered two more politically experienced opponents, to run against incumbent Attorney General Letitia James, and Joseph Hernandez as the GOP candidate for state Comptroller against incumbent Tom DiNapoli.

New York GOP’s Midterm Problem: No Money, No Bench—and Trump

Read more from Politico.

While the convention had all the traditional pomp and circumstance one would expect, the LG snafu and the political realities facing the GOP have left many New York Republicans demoralized. Republicans are used to being underdogs in New York; however, Trump’s poor approval rating, fundraising savant Elise Stefanik's departure, and a lack of competitive candidates have compounded the GOP’s woes heading into an election year. Al D’Amato, the former Republican Senator from New York, shared his analysis, succinctly offering, “Right now, we’re in bad shape. If it doesn’t turn around, we’re in trouble.” One of the clearest signs of trouble is the GOP’s inability to find a candidate to run against Democratic Rep. Laura Gillen in New York’s 4th Congressional District—one of the most competitive congressional seats in the country. Elsewhere in New York, Rep. Tom Suozzi is significantly out-fundraising former state Assemblymember Mike LiPetri in NY-3, while Republican Rep. Mike Lawler’s race for reelection in NY-17 is currently rated as a toss-up. 

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Republicans on the national level face many of the same issues as their New York colleagues, but money is not one of them. The Republican National Committee currently enjoys a $100 million fundraising edge over the Democratic National Committee, and a looming Supreme Court decision could soften restrictions on party funds in a way that would further benefit the GOP. In addition, Trump has his own PAC with over $305 million! There is no individual Democrat with a war chest anywhere near that size. The Democrats’ money woes are a stark reversal from 2024, when Kamala Harris and the DNC raised $2 billion. Still, many large donors were left dispirited by the loss and feared the potential ramifications from the Trump White House that could follow large, public donations to his political enemies. On the contrary, many in the tech and AI space see political contributions as a way to shore up their corporate interests with Republicans and have raised more than $50 million across three separate PACs. Elon Musk—the world’s richest man—could further complicate things for Democrats if he decides to spend even a fraction of the $290 million he spent in 2024 to get Trump reelected. 

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The primary contest to replace retiring Rep. Jerry Nadler in NY-12 remains among the most interesting in the nation and a political proxy battle among high-profile Democrats. Last week, Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi endorsed 33-year-old Jack Schlossberg, John F. Kennedy's grandson and first cousin of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. In a statement, Pelosi said, “This moment calls for leaders who understand the stakes and how to deliver for the people they serve. Jack Schlossberg is that kind of leader—a candidate for Congress we are all excited about, and someone I am proud to endorse.” The crowded primary field also includes longtime Nadler aide and protege Micah Lasher, who currently represents parts of the district in the state Assembly.

Twitter tweet

"I’m proud and excited to endorse @micahlasher for Congress," Nadler said on X. "He’ll bring a sense of urgency, creativity, and fearlessness to Washington."

Former Rep. Carolyn Maloney, who lost to Nadler after the two were redistricted together in 2022, is throwing her support behind Assemblyman Alex Bores, reigniting the Upper East Side v. Upper West Side divide that defined the race in 2022.

“Jerry went to Congress, he was going to build a rail freight tunnel. It wasn't built,” Maloney said. “During my tenure, we built the Second Avenue Subway, the East Side (Access), the Kosciuszko Bridge, the L train modernization and the (East River) Esplanade.” Bores, too, will do “the hard, tedious work that makes things happen,” Maloney said, “on the East Side, the West Side, all around the city.”

Other candidates in the field are anti-Trump lawyer George Conway, the former husband of Trump aide Kellyanne Conway, and journalist Jami Floyd. 

Twitter tweet

Across the Hudson River, progressive activist Analilia Mejia won an upset victory over former Rep. Tom Malinowski for the Democratic nomination in New Jersey's 11th Congressional District. Mejia ran with support from prominent progressive leaders, including Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, which helped distinguish her from the rest of the 11-person primary field. In a statement, Mejia said, “This was a race about the future of our country, and the future of our party, and the voters sent a clear message. They want leaders who are unbought, unbossed, and ready to take our country back from the billionaires and MAGA extremists.” This progressive-versus-center-left dynamic will continue to play out as we head toward November and Democrats reckon with the direction of their party.

Twitter tweet

In Albany, Senate Deputy Majority Leader Mike Gianaris announced he will not be seeking reelection and will leave the Senate at the end of the year. In a statement, Gianaris said, “Serving as Deputy Leader of the State Senate's largest-ever majority, and as the highest-ranking Senator from New York City for the past eight years, has been more rewarding than I could have possibly imagined. While the State Senate’s future is in good hands with the current members of the Democratic conference, it is time for me to embrace a new role as the best father I can be.” Gianaris represented Queens in the Assembly for 10 years before being elevated to the state Senate in 2010, where he was instrumental in key initiatives, including expanding voting access and codifying reproductive rights in state law. Gianaris played a crucial role—second only to Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins—in creating and growing that impressive majority. He continues to play a central role in Senate Democrats' plans for 2026 and beyond. Mike has been a friend of this firm for over twenty years; he will be missed by me for his insights, accessibility, and all the work he has done to make New York a better place.

Jack reflects on the exodus of longtime, powerful NY legislators…

Listen as he goes “From the Lobby’ with his latest podcast. He also talks:
🎙️Tin Cup Day
🎙️LG Delgado’s campaign woes
🎙️Blakeman’s misstep

Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay also announced he will be retiring at the end of the year after leading the Republican Conference since 2020, offering, “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.” Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie spoke kindly of his time working with Barclay, offering, “I’m normally happy when a Republican leaves office, but Minority Leader Will Barclay is a distinct exception to that rule. In all seriousness, he has been a good friend and partner in government. Even when we disagreed on policy, I knew we could always work together with respect and collegiality. I wish him all the best.” The Assembly Republican Conference announced Assemblyman Ed Ra as the next minority leader. Ra, who represents Nassau County, said, “Leader Barclay has led this conference really in a direction that I am fully in support of. Focusing on affordability, focusing on public safety. In many ways, it’s a continuation.” Leader Barclay is another good friend of this firm; he has done a great job for his conference and for the state of New York. He, too, will be missed.

New members who won various Special Elections across the state were sworn in and assigned to committees this week. Jeremy Zellner was sworn in to serve out the remainder of former state Senator Sean Ryan’s term in the 61st district. Zellner was named Chair of the Procurement and Contracts Committee and assigned to serve on the Banks, Commerce, Housing, Internet & Technology, Judiciary, Labor, and Libraries Committees. Erik Bottcher was sworn in to represent the Manhattan-based 47th district and was named as Chair of the Cities 1 Committee. He will also serve on the Civil Service & Pension, Corporations & Authorities, Environmental Conservation, Investigations & Governmental Operations, Judiciary, and Libraries Committees. 

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In the Assembly, Diana Moreno was sworn in to represent the 36th Assembly District, formerly held by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Moreno will be a member of the Aging, Agriculture, Tax, Small Business, and Social Services Committees. Keith Powers was sworn in to replace Assemblymember Harvey Epstein in the 74th Assembly District. Powers will be a member of the Cities, Corrections, Disabilities, Racing and Wagering, and Tourism Committees. 

Other notable committee shakeups include Senator Luis Sepulveda being removed from the Cities 1 Committee, Senator Kirsten Gonzalez dropping off the Civil Service Committee and being added to the Rules Committee, Senator April Baskin giving up Chair of the Procurement Committee (though she will still be a member), and Senator James Sanders Jr. being removed from the Procurement Committee. 

Comprehensive Analysis of Governor Hochul's FY2027 Executive Budget

Expert review of the $260B spending proposal covering healthcare, education, housing, transportation, and economic development policy.

Read here!

Finally, Team USA’s newest name to know is a 54-year-old curler and personal-injury lawyer. When his Gen Z teammates needed a lift, he stepped in and slid into history as the oldest U.S. Winter Olympian ever. Read on!

Photo on X

 -Jack O’Donnell

WCNY on LinkedIn: A Conversation with Barack Obama

Former President Barack Obama breaks his public silence in a powerful talk at Hamilton College, reflecting on democracy, the rule of law, and the role of citizens in shaping the nation’s future. Set against historic presidential speeches, this new documentary asks a timely question: Who are we?

Premieres Monday, Feb. 16 at 10 p.m. on WCNY-TV. OD&A is a proud sponsor.

You can livestream the conversation here or watch on-demand starting Feb. 17 here.

Give it a listen!

Jack goes ‘From the Lobby’ to talk: 🎙️Delgado’s campaign woes 🎙️Surprise exits from the Legislature 🎙️Will NY bail out its cities? 🎙️Blakeman’s misstep

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“Meet the Team” is our new podcast series highlighting the people who drive our firm’s success. This week, we welcome OD&A’s VP of Public Affairs, Ralph Ortega.

The former Editor-in-Chief of City & State NY shares insight from his 30-year career telling NY’s story: 🎙️What TV show inspired him to pursue journalism 🎙️NY’s turbulent era, including the downfall of Cuomo and Adams 🎙️His push for increased Latino representation in government 🎙️Unique hobby and favorite movie!

OD&A at Caucus Weekend!

OD&A’s VP & Policy Director Jim Moore, Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, Rasheed Gonga of OD&A client, AIDS Healthcare Foundation

Gonga, Deputy Dir. LGBTQ+ Affairs Chanel Lopez, Moore

Gonga, Sen. Nathalia Fernandez, Moore

O’Donnell & Associates was proud to attend the 55th Annual Caucus Weekend hosted by the New York State Association of Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic, and Asian Legislators.

Our Jim Moore was among thousands of New York’s political leaders, advocates, and stakeholders taking part in important conversations about policy, equity, and opportunity.

Caucus Weekend celebrates a powerful legacy while helping shape the priorities that move the state forward.

STUBHUB LAUNCHES “ACCESS: NEW YORK” FUND TO SEND YOUTH ACROSS NEW YORK STATE TO PROFESSIONAL SPORTING EVENTS, CONCERTS, AND THEATER

New $100,000 initiative will provide free tickets to underserved youth teams statewide. Read more in Empire Report.

Congratulations to OD&A client, Horizon Health Services, as it cut the ribbon on its newly expanded Hertel-Elmwood Recovery Center in Buffalo. The additional space was needed to meet the growing demand for behavioral health services in our community. OD&A was proud to attend the celebration!

Improbably Famous, Then Perpetually Forgotten. Now, the Renaissance of Edmonia Lewis

“The land of liberty had no room for a colored sculptor,” Edmonia Lewis told The New York Times almost 150 years ago. Read more here.

Congratulations!

Peter Kauffmann and OD&A’s Kara Hughes / Courtesy of Peter Kauffmann

OD&A’s Senior Advisor & Head of NYC Practice, Kara Hughes, and her husband, Peter Kauffmann have been named one of City & State NY’s 2026 Political Power Couples!

How did this marriage turn into a political power pairing? Read on:

Peter Kauffmann, founder and CEO of Bluejacket Strategies

Kara Hughes, senior advisor and head of New York City practice at O’Donnell & Associates

What’s your current relationship status?

Happily married for 21 years.

How did you two meet?

We met and became close friends working for Hillary Clinton.

How often do your professional lives overlap?

Not that often, but it’s great to have someone to talk to who understands the political world – whether that’s understanding the crazy hours and stress, or someone who can help you think through an issue.

Have you ever disagreed on a political issue?

YES!

Do you have any advice for other couples in politics?

Balancing two careers in politics with raising kids often requires a flexibility that isn’t always celebrated. At times, that may mean stepping up at home and stepping back professionally to support your partner’s career.

Read here!

February 16, 1861: Abraham Lincoln meets 11-year-old Grace Bedell from Westfield, NY, who urged him to grow a beard to help him get elected. The encounter took place at a train station as Lincoln was heading to Washington, D.C. Take a look back!

Lincoln grows a beard.

Swan Market Named One of the Best Restaurants of 2026 This beloved Rochester, NY institution is making national news as USA Today’s top places to eat in America. Check it out!

Monday Morning Memo has won two PRSA Excalibur Awards.

OD&A is ranked #7 among WNY’s fastest growing companies for 2025.

CSNY names OD&A a 2025 Top Place to Work!

NY Democrats gather in Syracuse to endorse a slate of candidates. Photo from X.

Good morning from Columbia County, where in 1814, Samuel J. Tilden was born.

A leading Barnburner, Tilden was elected governor of New York in 1874, fought the Canal Ring, and won the 1876 Presidential Election before fraud, deception, and a corrupt bargain sold out Reconstruction and millions of newly freed slaves, handing the White House to Rutherford “aka Rutherfraud” Hayes. Tilden earned 4,288,546 votes to Hayes 4,034,311; Tilden remains the only candidate to lose a presidential election despite receiving a majority of the popular vote.

NY Gov. Samuel J. Tilden

Speaking of majorities, Governor Kathy Hochul officially secured the designation of the New York State Democratic Committee, receiving just over 85% of the weighted vote at their convention in Syracuse last week. In her acceptance speech, Hochul said, “It’s with great pride that I accept your nomination to once again serve as the daughter of the great state of New York. As a young political science student, there are two realities I never dreamed possible: That I’d be elected the governor of my home state, but second, that the pillars of our very democracy, justice, truth, the rule of law, would be under attack, not by a foreign power, but by our own president.” 

Hochul Ticket Clinches NYS Democratic Party's Blessing

Hochul became the NYS Democrats’ pick ahead of the June primary. Read more from Spectrum News NY1.

A candidate needs 25% for automatic ballot access, and Lt. Governor Antonio Delgado fell far short of that mark and will need to petition his way onto the ballot for the June Primary. Speaking to reporters, Delgado offered, “You get the signatures, you get on the ballot, and you give people the choice. But as a party, and this is the point I’ve been trying to make to my colleagues, but as a party, we should also signal to the people that there’s an openness to this process.” Party delegates also nominated state Attorney General Letitia James and Comptroller Tom DiNapoli with overwhelming support.

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Both Hochul and Delgado unveiled their choices for Lt. Governor shortly before the convention. After much speculation, Hochul chose former New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, crafting the first women-led major party ticket in New York history. In a statement announcing her choice, Hochul said, "Adrienne and I are no strangers to rolling up our sleeves and getting results for working New Yorkers. Together, we’re going to continue investing in public safety, bringing costs down, and making this state a place where all families can thrive.”

The choice caused some agita, especially with the Brooklyn Democratic Party. Brooklyn Democratic leader Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn, not a fan of Adams, announced the organization was pulling their endorsement of Hochul, declaring in a statement, “This is a response to the political miscalculation on the part of the governor’s campaign and their failure to engage or consult Brooklyn Democratic leaders who represent New York’s largest Democratic delegation. Major statewide political decisions require meaningful collaboration with the party leaders and elected officials who organize, mobilize, and deliver Democratic victories.” Bichotte Hermelyn then reversed her decision and re-endorsed Hochul before the convention on Friday, offering, “We expressed our concerns, and while continued discussions are necessary to build and strengthen relationships, we understand that the only pathway forward is together.” 

Twitter tweet

Delgado selected former Buffalo mayoral and Common Council candidate India Walton as his running mate, giving his ticket additional geographic and ideological balance. Walton, a member of the Democratic Socialists of America, won an upset primary victory in 2021 against incumbent Mayor Byron Brown before losing in the General Election to a write-in campaign mounted by Brown and his allies. In a statement after joining Delgado’s ticket, Walton said, “New Yorkers deserve leadership that puts them first, and that is what this campaign embodies. I have never shied away from bold ideas, and I am excited to partner with someone who displays that same courage.” 

Hochul, Delgado Pick Running Mates

Governor Hochul and Lt. Governor Antonio Delgado have chosen their running mates for the upcoming Democratic primary. Our Jack O’Donnell tells WBEN the running mate picks make sense for each candidate. Listen here!

Delgado’s broad focus on the progressive left was not enough to secure the Working Families Party's endorsement either. Entering this weekend’s convention, Delgado had secured endorsements from Citizen Action of New York, New York Communities for Change, and Caring Majority Rising, each of which makes up part of the WFP’s Regional Advisory Council, or “RAC.” However, only the state committee members have an actual vote for statewide offices, and they selected a placeholder candidate rather than endorse Hochul or Delgado. According to reports, Delgado secured over 40% of the weighted state committee vote, while the placeholder candidate won with 56%. That means Hochul had little direct support from WFP state committee members, though party leaders disputed those numbers. Nonetheless, denying Delgado the support was a major victory for Team Hochul and an indication from the WFP that while they like what Delgado is saying, they have serious doubts about his viability.

Why is Governor Hochul resonating so well with voters?

LISTEN here as our Jack O'Donnell goes ‘From the Lobby’ on Hochul’s strong standing as she wins Democratic support for reelection with a slew of endorsements & high approval numbers.

Together with those victories, Hochul also rolled out endorsements from the entire New York Congressional Delegation as well as New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. It was quite a show of force in a week where a Siena poll also showed her with some of the highest approval ratings of her career.

Hochul Projects ‘Strength’ as She Resoundingly Wins Democratic Backing for a New Term

Read more in Politico.

In Albany, the focus remains on Hochul’s budget proposal; the joint legislative budget hearing on transportation is never the most riveting content, but a contentious back-and-forth over the efficacy of fare evasion enforcement on New York City’s subway led to one lawmaker yelling for his colleague to “shut up.” You can watch the exchange here. 

Comprehensive analysis of Governor Hochul's FY2027 Executive Budget. Expert review of the $260B spending proposal covering healthcare, education, housing, transportation, and economic development policy.

This week’s schedule will feature joint legislative hearings on Health on Tuesday, Local Government on Wednesday, and Public Protection on Thursday. You can watch the discussion live on the Senate and Assembly websites. You can find the full hearing schedule here. 

Read here!

Gov. Kathy Hochul kills a bill aimed at adding separate judicial districts for Onondaga and other urban counties.

Read more in Syracuse.com.

In one final act of the 2025 Legislative Session, Hochul effectively killed the proposal that would have tweaked the state's judicial districts through a rarely used tool known as a “pocket veto.” Normally, the governor has 10 days (minus Sundays) to act on legislation once it is formally transmitted to her by the Legislature. However, since the bill was sent to her on the last day of the year, Hochul has another thirty days to consider the legislation, and it is automatically rejected if she does not act. The proposal would have created two new judicial districts and redrawn the lines of three existing ones within the Appellate Division, Fourth Department. Had the bill been signed, Erie County would become its own district (the 8th District); Monroe County would become its own district (the 7th District); Onondaga County would become the new 14th Judicial District; and the remaining rural counties from the original 5th, 7th, and 8th Districts would be part of a newly configured 5th District and a brand-new 15th District. As the Supreme Court is currently configured, urban and rural areas share courts, which some believe hinders minority representation on the bench. There is already talk of bringing similar legislation back this year.

In Washington, D.C., Congress passed a spending bill last week to keep the government funded, but the agreement punted the decision on funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to this Friday. Now, Democrats are holding up a full-year funding package for DHS in the hopes of negotiating reforms for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer laid out his Conference’s demands at a press conference last week, highlighting the need to rein in ICE, saying, “When Americans see the pictures of these goons beating people, pushing people, and even shooting and killing people, they say this is not America. It is reminiscent of a dictatorship.” Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries laid out their 10 demands for ICE reforms in a letter, ranging from mandating body cameras to removing masks to codifying state and local oversight.

Twitter tweet

House Speaker Mike Johnson has shown little interest in negotiating with Democrats over the issue, saying, “That is a road that we cannot or should not go down. We will figure out a path through this, but we have to enforce our immigration law.” Senate Majority Leader John Thune was equally dismissive and suggested a partial shutdown at DHS was imminent, offering last week, “We’ve got a—now—one-week-and-one-day time frame in which to do this, which is entirely unrealistic, and a Democrat Party in both the House and the Senate which seems a lot less interested in getting a solution to this than they do in having a political issue.” 

Republicans Reject Dems’ Immigration Enforcement Demands, Prepare to Extend Stopgap DHS Funding

Senate Majority Leader John Thune said most of Democrats’ 10-point list of demands for curtailing the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement operations are “very unrealistic and unserious.” Read more in the Washington Times.

Both parties are facing a lot of pressure from their respective partisans to stay on course, so this is going to get interesting. Stay tuned.

A quick look at one of Mayor Mamdani’s toughest transition challenges here.

And, having been in Miami last week for a family wedding, I can attest that this is true.

Finally, a 77-year-old museum curator found a hip way to spark interest in art. Her videos on centuries-old masterpieces are going viral after she mastered Gen Z slang. Check out her effortless swag!

© National Gallery of Art

 -Jack O’Donnell

Jack goes ‘From the Lobby’ to talk: 🎙️NYS Democratic Convention 🎙️Governor’s LG pick 🎙️Mamdani endorsement 🎙️Funding showdown for the DHS

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“Meet the Team” is our new podcast series highlighting the people who drive our firm’s success.

This week, we sit down with Diane Ong, OD&A’s Chief of Staff, to talk about her journey from politics to policymaking and more: 🎙️What it’s like working on a presidential campaign? 🎙️Her international affairs experience in the UK 🎙️How she keeps our fast-paced firm running smoothly 🎙️Her all-time favorite movie!

Goodwill of the Finger Lakes CEO Jennifer Lake was in Albany this week to advocate for critical investments…

Goodwill of the Finger Lakes is so much more than a retail store or donation center. It’s an economic driver, a crisis response partner, a workforce development leader, and an emerging hub for sustainability and circularity in our region.

Thank you Senator Jeremy Cooney and Senator Pam Helming and Assembly Members Jennifer Lunsford, Sarah Anderson Clark, Anna Kelles, Josh Jensen, and Demond Meeks, and your staff, who took the time to meet with us and engage on how these investments can deliver real, measurable impact across the Finger Lakes!

New Era Cap Produces Team USA Headgear for 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Games

Read more from WGRZ-TV.

The 2026 Black Trailblazers

City & State’s annual Black Trailblazers list, which is published at the start of Black History Month, puts a spotlight on key leaders who are breaking through in an array of fields, from government and politics to business, social services, higher education, and organized labor. Meet them here!

Pre-K students take over the mini podium as Mayor Mamdani unveils plans for NYC’s new 2K child care program here.

February 9, 1995: Dr. Bernard Harris, Jr. stepped out of the space shuttle Discovery in orbit, becoming the first Black man to walk in space. The mission was to test new insulation to protect astronauts from the cold. Learn more about his journey toward this historic spacewalk here!

NASA photo

Must-Visit Aviation Museums in Upstate New York If you know where to look, the story of flight is all around us. Here are a few places worth exploring. Read on!

Monday Morning Memo has won two PRSA Excalibur Awards.

OD&A is ranked #7 among WNY’s fastest growing companies for 2025.

CSNY names OD&A a 2025 Top Place to Work!

Governor Hochul Introduces the Local Cops, Local Crimes Act to Stop ICE from Co-Opting Local Law Enforcement

Good morning from Hearing Room B, Legislative Office Building, Albany, New York, where tomorrow, the 2026 Joint Budget Legislative Hearings will continue with Transportation. You can watch the discussion live on the Senate and Assembly websites. You can find the full hearing schedule here. 

New York Democrats Will Bring Their Convention to Central New York on Friday | Read more in Syracuse.com.

The 2026 New York State Democratic Convention gets underway in Syracuse on Friday, and all eyes are on Governor Kathy Hochul as she looks to choose her running mate. While the office of Lieutenant Governor is largely ceremonial, the decision is important for Hochul as she looks to add political, geographical, and cultural balance to the ticket ahead of a competitive reelection campaign. Whoever she chooses will be Hochul’s third Lt. Governor in five years: Brian Benjamin resigned in 2022 after a federal indictment that was later dropped, before the current Lt. Governor, Antonio Delgado, publicly split with Hochul and is challenging her in the Democratic primary. In a statement, a spokesperson for the Hochul campaign offered that she is “committed to selecting a strong partner and proven leader to serve as her running mate—a champion for New York families who shares her commitment to lowering costs and standing up to the MAGA movement.” 

There are plenty of state Democrats who fit that description, but only a handful who offer Hochul the political equilibrium she is seeking. The short list includes New York Secretary of State and former state Assemblymember Walter Mosley, who confirmed he has “been asked to move forward with the final vetting process,” and DASNY CEO (and former Secretary of State and former state Assemblymember) Robert Rodriguez. Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez has been mentioned and would help solidify support among the Latino community, especially in his home borough of Brooklyn, and bolster credibility among law enforcement. Up and coming Assemblymember Brian Cunningham, also from Brooklyn, has been under consideration and indicated he would be open to serving as LG, telling reporters, “If the governor asked, obviously, I think an opportunity to serve the state is something I would always say yes to. She is going to continue to double down and make sure all New Yorkers are safe, whether it’s helping the mayor of New York City deliver on affordability and child care.” One candidate who has reportedly already turned down the job is Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, who was just reelected to another five-year term in 2025. Stay tuned to see who makes the final cut!  

Comprehensive analysis of Governor Hochul's FY2027 Executive Budget. Expert review of the $260B spending proposal covering healthcare, education, housing, transportation, and economic development policy.

Back in Albany, the legislative session is in full swing with lawmakers crafting their response to Hochul’s Executive Budget proposal. (In case you missed it, you can find our full overview of the Executive Budget here.) Hochul is keen to avoid any major fights with the Legislature that could negatively impact her reelection campaign this year, but nonetheless, there are some tensions. Hochul's budget included legislation to protect places of worship, schools, and healthcare facilities from immigration raids, as well as a measure to withhold public safety grants from municipalities that work with ICE, but stopped short of endorsing the New York for All Act. The high-profile legislation would expand certain immigration protections and prevent state and local law enforcement from collaborating with federal immigration authorities without a judicial warrant. Hochul’s omission of the New York for All Act seemingly puts her on a collision course with Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, who came out in support of the legislation for the first time last month, and again last week reiterated her desire to pass the legislation “sooner rather than later.” Of course, Stewart-Cousins will need her Assembly counterpart, Speaker Carl Heastie, on board as well, though he has yet to give the measure his full-throated endorsement, saying, “Those are conversations we will have with our members.”

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Hochul also doubled down on the issue on Friday, proposing a ban on formal cooperation agreements between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities, also known as 287(g) agreements. Hochul’s proposal, known as the “Local Cops, Local Crimes Act,” would impact eleven municipalities across New York that currently have such agreements in place, including GOP gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman’s Nassau County. In her press conference, Hochul said, "(ICE) has over $85 billion at their disposal … so they have what they need. So don’t buy the argument we have to be there because ICE needs help … We have other responsibilities for our local law enforcement.” The issue is already spilling over onto the campaign trail, with Blakeman responding in a statement, “By banning local law enforcement partnerships with ICE, Hochul is allowing dangerous criminals to return to our neighborhoods. That ends when I’m Governor.” 

 For a complete legislative roadmap, the team at OD&A has prepared a very thorough and engaging policy preview for 2026:

Read here!

Another area where Hochul and Democratic lawmakers may experience friction is over the future of the state’s comprehensive climate law, which mandates emissions reductions that the state has already admitted it will not meet. Any attempts to change or roll back climate provisions in budget talks are sure to be met with pushback from lawmakers and activists, including Senate Finance Chair Liz Krueger who said, “I look at what's happening with the federal government and with the data about how fast we are moving down the road of climate crisis, and if anything, we should be speeding up the process.” At the same time, the Public Service Commission is seeking comments on a petition that would provide an avenue for the state to roll back the law’s target for 70% renewable electricity by 2030 and 100% zero-emission electricity by 2040. Climate and energy have been tricky issues for Hochul as she attempts to walk a fine line between ensuring affordability and reliability while still advancing the sustainability policies that a vocal, politically engaged sector of the Democratic Party is calling for. Combined with Hochul’s push to streamline SEQRA reviews and environmental reviews to speed up development projects, climate and the environment will be major issues in these budget negotiations.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani held a press conference last week to preview his upcoming budget proposal and to explain how he plans to address a $12.6 billion budget gap over the next two fiscal years. Mamdani was not coy in his assessment of how New York City arrived at the deficit, saying in his remarks, “We did not arrive at this place by accident. This crisis has a name and a chief architect. In the words of the Jackson 5, it's as easy as A-B-C. This is the Adams Budget Crisis.”

Mayor Mamdani calls for raising taxes on the wealthy, citing NYC budget ‘crisis’ in this report from Gothamist.

While assigning blame to his predecessor, earned or not, may be politically expedient in the short term, Mamdani will ultimately be judged on how he deals with the practical realities of governing. Those fiscal realities include a mandate to decrease class sizes in New York City public schools, an expansion of the rental assistance program, and unbudgeted overtime costs. Mamdani will have to find funding streams to address these associated costs, as well as money to implement many of the affordability proposals he campaigned on. Former Mayor Eric Adams took issue with Mamdani’s characterization of the causes of the deficit, posting on social media, “Let me get this straight. The Adams administration earned top bond ratings, left the incoming mayor a record $8B in reserves, navigated the city through COVID, absorbed a $9B migrant crisis, and survived. And now the new administration is complaining? The fastest way to balance a budget is to admit that “free” comes with a price tag.” Mamdani raised increased state aid funded by further taxes on the richest New Yorkers as a policy fix, albeit one quickly dismissed by Hochul. Mamdani is scheduled to deliver his formal budget proposal to the City Council on February 17th. 

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Looking further forward, New York remains in danger of losing two seats in Congress, according to a report released last week by the U.S. Census Bureau. Over the last twelve years, New York’s net population only grew by 1,008 people and is still 201,269 lower than it was in 2020—good for dead last among all 50 states and Washington, D.C. If that does not change before the next census in four years, New York is likely to go from 26 seats in Congress to 24 in 2030. As the state government works to enact policies to address the affordability crisis that is causing people to leave New York, a group of lawmakers is proposing legislation to promote maximum participation and ensure New York’s population is accurately counted. Sponsored by Senator Jeremy Cooney and Assemblymember Michaelle Solages, the bill would create a state Office of Census Counts and provide $15 million for awareness campaigns. Cooney believes the grassroots effort will help the state reach underrepresented populations, saying, "The key is to actually get that money into community-based organizations around the state who have authentic relationships with underrepresented populations.” Cooney later added, “The census counts all people living within New York State, not just legal citizens. The reason the framers designed it that way is that federal dollars should go to the population of where people are.” This is an idea all New Yorkers should get behind.

Finally… A viral boy band is hoping TikTok fame can be their ticket into the U.S. Meet Boy Throb. The group is calling themselves the next big thing, except one member is currently stuck in India. Read more on their quest to become an American sensation!

Wall Street Journal

 -Jack O’Donnell

Big news for our own Jim Moore!

Jim has been named a 2026 Trailblazer in Health Care by City & State NY for his tireless work improving the access and quality of health care for those who need it most.

City and State writes: Known for translating policy into wins for providers, Jim Moore has played a central role in securing funding and regulatory relief for safety net health systems across New York. His work includes advancing support and Medicaid reimbursement reform for federally qualified health centers, securing a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic designation for a Western New York provider, and helping providers stabilize operations during the COVID-19 pandemic. He has also steered millions through state budgets and federal appropriations. Earlier in his career, Moore served as U.S. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer’s Southern Tier deputy regional director.

How can Jim help you? Connect here!

Jack goes ‘From the Lobby’ to talk: 🎙️NY’s congressional blues 🎙️Mamdani’s deficit test 🎙️Lt. Governor scramble 🎙️ICE and the NY governor’s race

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“Meet the Team" is our new podcast series highlighting the great people who make up the firm. First up, Dr. Ellen Grant, who’s gone from candy striper, to hospital CEO, to deputy mayor. Listen here as she talks: 🎙️Advice she’d give health care leaders 🎙️Challenges & opportunities facing health care 🎙️ What still fuels her passion for the work

OD&A’s Marc Cohen on LinkedIn: Great day in Albany advocating for Special Olympics New York with CEO Stacey Hengsterman!

From promoting health and inclusion to building confidence and opportunity for tens of thousands of athletes and families, SONY is a model of how sports can strengthen communities statewide.

Thank you to Senators Jeremy Cooney, Patricia Fahy, and Patrick Gallivan and Assembly Members Brian-Christopher Cunningham, Angelo Santabarbara, Josh Jensen, Didi Barrett, Michaelle Solages, Bill Magnarelli, and Brian Miller, and their staff, who took time to meet with us today!

Strong Museum of Play Acquires "Comprehensive Collection of Atari Materials"

The Curt Vendel Collection now has a brand-new home. Read on!

Buffalo Sabres Unveil Black History Celebration Crest, Designed by UB’s George Afedzi Hughes

The logo is the third collaboration with the Buffalo AKG Art Museum as part of the “Community Artist Series.” Read on!

His design will be printed on a set of practice jerseys, which will be on display in the KeyBank Center concourse and available for auction through February 8. Place your bid here.

Get the story behind this viral snapshot of a state DOT worker and a nearly 8-foot snowbank here!

February 2, 1887: In Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania locals at Gobbler’s Knob celebrate the first Groundhog Day in America. Its roots lie in an ancient Christian tradition, later adopted by Germans & brought to Pennsylvania, where the groundhog became the star. Take a look back!

Source: National Geographic

The Top U.S. City for Dating is in Upstate NY Looking for love? New research says the best city for singles is actually right here in the Empire State. Check it out!

Monday Morning Memo has won two PRSA Excalibur Awards.

OD&A is ranked #7 among WNY’s fastest growing companies for 2025.

CSNY names OD&A a 2025 Top Place to Work!

Governor Hochul unveils her 2027 Executive Budget.

Good morning from Antarctica or the frozen tundra of Upstate New York. I hope you are staying warm and safe. In preparation for today’s weather, the New York State Legislature took the rare step of postponing today’s legislative session.

Now that the dust has settled on the governor’s budget release, OD&A Policy Director Jim Moore has broken down the spending plan, offering a clear, concise overview of the key takeaways from the FY 2027 Executive Budget Proposal.

Our Executive Budget Overview focuses on what matters most—New York’s economic outlook for SFY 2027 and beyond, and how that trajectory is shaping decisions on the issues below:

Find out where New York’s biggest priorities are headed. Check out Jim Moore’s budget overview here.

Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie was pleased that this year’s budget proposal is light on non-fiscal policy, a practice he has derided for years, telling reporters, “There’s less policy than normal, so maybe I’m getting into the governor's ear a little bit.” Still, there will be areas of friction between Hochul, Senate, and Assembly leadership, and rank-and-file members as they begin crafting their own budget proposals.

For a complete legislative roadmap, the team at OD&A has prepared a very thorough and engaging policy preview for 2026:

Read here!

Hochul’s plan to bring down the cost of auto insurance is supported in theory by many in the legislature, but Heastie was hesitant to give the proposal his full endorsement, saying, “We have to figure this out because I do think victims of accidents need to have their settlements and their day in court, so maybe we’ll find something that works for everybody. The governor is trying to deal with a problem, but I also know that we don’t want to leave victims of accidents without being compensated.” 

Hochul’s proposal to create a path to universal childcare was a welcome development for the legislature, but many members want to see more investment (and a quicker path to implementation) outside of the five boroughs, with Orange County Senator James Skoufis declaring, “There is going to be a push for parity. No one wants to take away child care from families in New York City. I support expanding access in New York City, but we should be increasing that access everywhere in the state.”

Governor Hochul’s Executive Budget has record spending…

But our Jack O'Donnell says the Legislature will likely push for more… LISTEN here as Jack talks to the morning team at WBEN about the next steps in the budget process.

Hochul will also face intense pressure from lawmakers and advocates to actively fight back against the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement. Her budget included legislation to protect places of worship, schools, and healthcare facilities from immigration raids, as well as a measure permitting New Yorkers to sue ICE for civil liberties violations; however, many legislators are demanding that New York go further. Brooklyn Senator Andrew Gounardes told reporters, “The governor is proposing to protect sensitive locations, many of us are pushing for a lot more, we have to do a lot more in the face of what’s happening across the country, and many of us are going to be pushing for New York for All.” The legislation referenced by Gounardes, the New York for All Act, would codify immigrant protections and limit state and local law enforcement from collaborating with ICE, but has yet to be supported by Hochul. Noteworthy that Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins also name-checked the New York for All Act in her opening remarks, saying it was a top priority of the Democratic majority.

Zohran Mamdani Pushes NYC Tax Hike on the Rich—In Blow to Fellow Democrat Kathy Hochul’s Budget Plan

Read more in the NY Post.

Of course, there will also be lively debate around raising the corporate and personal income tax, a policy that has had support from both houses of the legislature and is a vocal priority for many progressive legislators and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Hochul has long resisted increased taxes, saying again last week, “You can make historic investments without raising income taxes, without mortgaging the next generation.” Leadership in both chambers was non-committal about whether their one-house budgets will propose a tax hike, with Heastie offering, “You all keep asking me, you’ve been asking me since before she even presented her budget if we wanted to raise taxes. I always believe in having enough revenue to deliver whatever the members want, and we will begin that process on Tuesday. Ask me this question in a month.” Striking a similar tune, Deputy Senate Majority Leader Mike Gianaris said, “The important thing is to make child care more affordable, make healthcare more affordable, make mass transit more affordable because that’s what the people want. If we find a way to do that outside of raising taxes, great. If the money comes up short, then we’ll have to have that hard conversation.” Stay tuned here.

Albany Insiders Evaluate Hochul’s Budget Proposal

Our Jack O’Donnell joins Capitol Pressroom host David Lombardo for this lively discussion. Listen here!

The next steps in the budget process are the Joint Legislative Budget Hearings, which are scheduled to kick off tomorrow with the Agriculture/Parks and Recreation hearing. You can find the full hearing schedule here. 

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New York Republicans were quick to criticize Hochul’s spending plan for being too costly and focusing on the wrong issues, with Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt insisting, “At a time when she should be tightening the belt on state finances, the Governor’s election year budget increases state operating funds by $8.5 billion and includes no substantive tax relief—and this is before her radical allies in the Legislature unveil their proposals to bloat this budget even more.” While Republicans in Albany are largely powerless to influence the state budget, Republicans in power in Washington, D.C., could cause real problems for New York. Hochul’s budget includes a proposal to tap into a $9.6 billion state trust fund to cover the roughly 1.8 million non-citizens on the Medicaid Essential Plan, who are now barred from receiving funding under last year’s “Big Beautiful Bill,” formally known as H.R.1. However, the plan requires the approval of Dr. Mehmet Oz, Trump’s administrator for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). If Oz does not approve the plan, New York would be forced to shift those individuals to basic Medicaid, at an estimated cost of $3 billion. Hochul has called out New York’s GOP Members of Congress for allowing the state to be put in this position via their vote for H.R.1. Expect to hear more about this during budget negotiations and on the campaign trail.

Latest Redistricting Drama Could Knock Out NYC’s Only Congressional Republican

A state judge ruled that the Rep. Nicole Malliotakis’ district violates the state constitution and must be redrawn. Read more in City & State NY.

The exact details of the campaign trail and, more specifically, New York’s Congressional maps are back in flux following last week’s ruling from Supreme Court Justice Jeffrey Pearlman that NY-11, New York City’s only Republican-held Congressional seat, is unconstitutional and must be redrawn ahead of the midterm elections. A Democratic-led lawsuit argued that the district, currently represented by Nicole Malliotakis, should include Staten Island and southern Manhattan rather than southern Brooklyn so as not to dilute Black and Latino voting power. In a statement, Malliotakis opined, “We are reviewing the judge’s decision and our options to protect the voices of the people of Staten Island and Brooklyn. Nothing changes the fact that this is a frivolous attempt by Washington Democrats to steal this congressional seat from the people, and we are very confident that we will prevail at the end of the day.” Pearlman’s order does not lay out a remedy if the state’s 10-member Independent Redistricting Commission is deadlocked, and it is unclear if the appeals process will play out before election season begins. A result here could also scramble some other races, with observers expecting that the potentially redrawn NY-11 might affect embattled incumbent Dan Goldman, who is facing a difficult primary challenge from former New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, as well as potentially former Congressman Max Rose.

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In other redistricting news, Maryland Governor Wes Moore is taking aim at that state’s only GOP representative as the national redistricting tit-for-tat continues. Last week, a commission convened by Moore recommended a new Congressional map that would add heavily Democratic areas in and around Annapolis to Republican Rep. Andy Harris’ district. Maryland Senator Angela Alsobrooks, a Democrat who chaired the commission, said in a statement, “At a moment when other states are moving aggressively to redraw maps, and when fundamental voting rights protections face renewed threats, Maryland has a responsibility to lead with urgency.” One notable opponent of the redistricting plan was Maryland Senate President Bill Ferguson, a Democrat. Ferguson argued the map was likely to lose if challenged in court and Democrats could end up losing seats in the end, offering, “Ultimately, a flawed process has delivered a flawed product.” Of course, Ferguson has a lot of say over whether the new plan will receive a vote on the Senate floor. More to come.

I suspect everyone, no matter their party affiliation, would agree these are not normal times.

And finally, it may be dead, but nonetheless, here is your slang word of the year. 

 -Jack O’Donnell

The 2026 Albany Power 100 from City & State NY is out!

The list is packed with the people shaping New York’s future, and we're excited to share that our Jack O'Donnell has once again been named among the state’s most influential leaders in politics and government.

Jack has been recognized for helping deliver real results, from securing major funding for the University at Buffalo, the Buffalo AKG Art Museum expansion, The Strong, and the Corning Museum of Glass, to advocating for the expansion of Elijah’s Law, protecting children with severe allergies in New York City schools.

Read more and check out the full list here.

How can Jack help you? Let’s chat!

Listen on your favorite platform!

Jack goes ‘From the Lobby’ with the next steps following the rollout of the Executive Budget: 🎙️Breaking down the revenue increase 🎙️Will Hochul’s deregulation on housing stick? 🎙️NYC’s big budget gap & will the state step in? 🎙️Will there be an on-time budget this year?

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The Governor took part in a ribbon cutting for The Irene Skalny Childcare Center, a new YMCA child care center in Penfield that opened in October with the help of over $1.5 million in state funding.

Governor Kathy Hochul visited Rochester last week to highlight the programs of OD&A client, the YMCA of Greater Rochester, as part of her commitment to ensuring every family in New York has access to high-quality childcare. The Governor announced a $20 million childcare pilot program for Monroe County, alongside her broader $300 million investment in Rochester and Monroe County. Read more!

OD&A’s Marc Cohen on LinkedIn: Thank you Senator Pam Helming for touring EquiCenter, Inc. today with Executive Director Katherine Hatch and Board Chair Charlie Fox!

With a focus on individuals with disabilities, at-risk youth, and Veterans, OD&A client, EquiCenter, fosters growth, wellness, and educational opportunities for people of all abilities through the power of horses, horticulture, and nature-based experiences. Their work fills a critical gap in care, and continued support ensures these transformative programs remain accessible to the people and families who rely on them most!

Learn more about the Hot Glass Demos here!

January 26, 2005: After the Senate votes 85-13 to confirm her nomination, Condoleezza Rice is sworn in as the first Black female U.S. Secretary of State, appointed by President George W. Bush, making her the highest-ranking African American woman in a presidential cabinet. Take a look back!

Dr. Condoleezza Rice & President Bush at her ceremonial swearing-in with Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. (White House photo by Eric Draper, Wikipedia)

These Athletes With NY Ties Are Going to the Olympics Almost 150 athletes will be competing for Team USA in the 2026 Winter Olympics, including 11 with New York ties. Check out the list!

Monday Morning Memo has won two PRSA Excalibur Awards.

OD&A is ranked #7 among WNY’s fastest growing companies for 2025.

CSNY names OD&A a 2025 Top Place to Work!

Governor Hochul on X

Good morning from Albany, New York, where, in 1961, Martin Luther King visited Wilborn Temple to highlight that civil rights was a national—not just a regional—struggle. 

Emphasizing the nonviolent nature of the struggle, King declared, "We are not violent. We have love in our hearts for those who hurt us... We must let people know we will wear you down by our capacity to suffer.”  He also visited the state Capitol and met with Gov. Nelson Rockefeller and Albany Mayor Erastus Corning II. Read more in the Times Union.

Gov. Rockefeller, MLK, Mayor Corning in Albany in 1961 (Times Union photo)

Albany is where Governor Kathy Hochul delivered her annual State of the State address last week, unveiling proposals that will serve as the blueprint for her reelection campaign this year. In her remarks, Hochul offered a succinct summary of her agenda, saying, “The 2026 State of the State agenda is grounded in a simple belief: government should make life more affordable, keep people safe, and expand opportunity—not shrink it.”  

Anticipating Republican attacks that the state has become too expensive on her watch, Hochul focused on proposals to make life more affordable for New Yorkers, including a package of bills to bring down utility costs. As we previewed last week, Hochul’s marquee affordability proposal was a pitch to eventually provide free, universal childcare across the state.

To kickstart that initiative, the state will be investing $4.5 billion to expand universal pre-K and implement universal 2-Care in New York City. The plan also allows for childcare pilot programs as Upstate communities look to catch up with New York City. Some believe the cost of statewide implementation—estimated between $12 billion and $15 billion—will ultimately be prohibitive, but Hochul declared that her plan will “deliver universal childcare for every single family in New York. Full stop.” Hochul also proposed reworking the state’s environmental review process to expedite housing development and other infrastructure projects in what she is calling the “Let Them Build Agenda.” 

For a complete legislative roadmap, the team at OD&A has prepared a very thorough and engaging policy preview:

Read here!

On immigration enforcement, Hochul indicated she would support legislation allowing New Yorkers to sue ICE agents in civil court for violating their civil rights. The declaration garnered the loudest applause of the day. Hochul said, “Let me be clear; public safety will always come first, but it must be pursued lawfully and with humanity.” The proposal would also restrict federal immigration authorities from entering schools, hospitals, and places of worship without a judicial warrant. Hochul stopped short of endorsing the New York for All Act, legislation that would codify immigrant protections and restrict local law enforcement from collaborating with ICE. The bill has been a priority for immigration advocates, and Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins publicly supported it for the first time last week. Expect some friction here between how far the legislature wants to go and where Hochul is comfortable, as well as blistering attacks from Republicans on both.

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Hochul touted declining crime statistics from the past year in her address, but acknowledged there is still work to do on public safety. Following a high-profile anti-Israel protest outside a Queens synagogue earlier this month, Hochul proposed a law that would ban protesters from demonstrating within 25 feet of religious institutions and healthcare facilities. The state will also be putting an increased focus on 3D-printed guns, pushing legislation that would require manufacturers of 3D printers to install software that would prevent the machines from printing firearm components. Hochul has so far resisted calls to revisit criminal justice laws, including the Raise the Age law, which would allow more teenagers to be charged as adults. 

You can find the complete list of Hochul’s State of the State proposals here. 

Of course, the devil is in the details, and we will learn more about them tomorrow when Hochul and Budget Director Blake Washington unveil the specifics of the Executive Budget proposal. A couple of things to keep in mind:

• Last year’s budget came in at $254 billion.

• Hochul has been strong on resisting any increase in personal income tax for the wealthiest New Yorkers, but signaled more openness to other revenue raisers.

• Hochul has offered proposals around energy and utility companies, protecting immigrants from deportation, and holding ICE accountable.

• Foreshadowed changes to outdated or inefficient state regulations and significant changes to SEQRA. 

We will be watching for the details of all of this and more . . .

Gov. Hochul’s affordability agenda is out. Now, the other shoe drops…

LISTEN here as our Jack O'Donnell goes ‘From the Lobby’ on the toughest fight in the state budget battle.

While federal cuts will make paying for all this challenging, Comptroller Tom DiNapoli had some more optimistic news last week, reporting that state tax collections beat expectations. New York tax revenue was $85.8 billion through the first three quarters of the current fiscal year, $2.3 billion higher than in the Division of Budget’s mid-year update. Receipts were up $5.9 billion compared with the same point last year. DiNapoli, while urging caution based on the federal situation, offered: “The state enters the final quarter of the fiscal year in good financial condition.”

Hochul Faces Challenges as 2026 Albany Legislative Session Begins

“Having to balance the far left and right is Kathy Hochul’s sweet spot,” says our Jack O’Donnell to reporter Yancey Roy of Newsday. “She is about finding the center.” Read more here.

Meanwhile, the Senate announced two new committee chairs to replace members who are moving on to new jobs. Senator Luis Sepúlveda has been appointed as the next chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, replacing former Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal, who left the Senate last year to become Manhattan Borough President. In a statement, Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said, “I am confident that under his leadership, the Judiciary Committee will continue to set a high standard for fairness and transparency. I congratulate Senator Sepúlveda on this well-deserved appointment and look forward to working with him as he leads the committee.”

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Senator April Baskin, a great friend of the firm, was appointed to serve as Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Economic Development, and Small Business following Sean Ryan’s departure from the Senate to become Mayor of Buffalo. In a statement, Baskin offered, “I am grateful to Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins for entrusting me to lead this prominent committee at the beginning of my tenure as a state senator. I want to assure residents of New York State, as well as my colleagues in the Senate, that I will remain focused, assertive, and attentive to all economic development and small business reform and practices across our great state.” We could not be more pleased for Sen. Baskin.

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The Senate wasted no time getting back to work this year, passing a package of election-related bills intended to defend New Yorkers’ right to vote. The most notable bill in the package is legislation from Senator James Skoufis that will move New York’s presidential primary from June to the first Tuesday of March, known as Super Tuesday, when the frontrunners traditionally separate themselves from the field. Skoufis argued that the change will make New York more relevant in presidential primary elections, saying, “As it stands now, presidential candidates only come to New York for one reason, if we’re speaking frankly. And that is, they collect big checks from corporate boardrooms and penthouses in Manhattan, and they fly out that night to some battleground state or some state that is relevant in the primary nominating calendar.” The voting package also prohibits “deceptive practices” in elections, bars foreign-influenced businesses from funding campaigns, and prevents the disclosure of personal information of election workers.

States Push for the Front of the Line in Democrats' 2028 Presidential Contest

Read more from NBC News.

Speaking of presidential primaries, national Democrats remain divided over which state will vote first in the 2028 presidential primary. The order has major implications for candidates, and the debate has reignited longstanding disagreements over the racial, regional, and rural-urban divides within the party. Iowa and New Hampshire had been the first two stops for both parties for decades, until former President Joe Biden, as a reward for the Palmetto State's role in propelling him to victory in 2020, moved South Carolina to the front of the line in 2024. All three of the aforementioned states are jockeying to stay at the front of the line, as are non-traditional states including Nevada, Michigan, and Georgia. The formal guidelines set forth by the Democratic National Committee require one state each from four regions—the East, Midwest, South, and West—to be included in the early primaries before Super Tuesday, but Democrats are considering which region and which state going first will help Democrats in the general and down ballot. Hilary Barrett, the Nevada Democratic Party’s Executive Director, believes that her state’s combination of a large, diverse metropolitan center as well as rural enclaves elsewhere in the state makes Nevada perfectly suited to go first, saying, “If Democrats are serious about winning back working-class voters, Nevada should be first in the nation.” Party officials from Iowa have pointed out that the GOP will caucus there first in 2028, regardless of what the DNC does, arguing that the Democrats would be ceding the state to Republicans if Iowa is not first on the list. Stay tuned to see where the Democrats land!

Finally… In the southern African nation of Malawi, a post-election power struggle has gone to the dogs—literally—raising the question: are presidential guard dogs personal pets or state security? Read on!

Former President Lazarus Chakwera (Thoko Chikondi/AP)

 -Jack O’Donnell

Big things are happening at O’Donnell & Associates!

As our client list continues to grow across New York, our firm is expanding, adding new talent that reflects where the work is headed. From strengthening our New York City presence to deepening our expertise in health care, these hires signal a busy and exciting next chapter for OD&A.

We’re thrilled to welcome Ralph Ortega, former editor-in-chief of City & State, to lead our statewide public affairs campaigns from his base in NYC, and Dr. Ellen Grant, former Deputy Mayor of Buffalo, as Senior Advisor on Health Care.

These additions, as well as internal promotions, will ensure OD&A is even better positioned to deliver smart, hands-on advocacy and trusted counsel for clients across the state. Read more in Empire Report and in Buffalo Business First.

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Jack goes ‘From the Lobby’ with a State of the State debrief and more… 🎙️Feedback on Hochul’s performance 🎙️Impact on economic development and businesses 🎙️Budget battle ahead 🎙️Election year challenges

Sen. Nathalia Fernandez & M&T’s Mariely Moronta-Sanchez

Bronx BP Vanessa Gibson & M&T’s Marlon Barrett

OD&A client, M&T Bank, was on hand to attend inauguration ceremonies for New York City Council members, marking the start of a new term in City Hall. It was a meaningful moment to engage with city and state leaders and celebrate the work ahead for New York’s communities.

OD&A’s Marc Cohen on LinkedIn: Great day in Albany with CEO Jeffrey Cook of OD&A Client, Cook Properties

Thank you Senator Jeremy Cooney, Senator James Skoufis, AM Josh Jensen, AM Michael Cashman, AM Jennifer Lunsford, AM Brian-Christopher Cunningham, AM Jon Rivera, AM Brian Manktelow, and AM Didi Barrett (and your awesome teams!) for taking the time to talk about the importance of safe, attainable, high-quality housing! We appreciated the thoughtful conversation around manufactured housing as a practical, commonsense solution to today’s housing crisis, helping expand access while maintaining quality and community stability. Grateful for the partnership and the willingness to engage on solutions that truly make a difference.

Elijah-Alavi Foundation: Elijah Builds a Park

On January 16th, Elijah would have been 12 years old. We are honored and so grateful to finally share the Book Cover release of Elijah Builds a Park. Elijah loved parks and building “parks”  with his blocks every single day. The story captures his joy, what made him different, brotherhood, imagination, friendship, family, and adventure. Writing this book was deeply personal and healing. Thank you to everyone who continues to support The Elijah-Alavi Foundation, and we look forward to Making A Hand, Making A Hug, and Making A Kiss with all of you for another year.

The Strong Museum Needs Your Vote!

USA Today has nominated The Strong for “Best Pop Culture Museum” and “Best Children’s Museum” in the nation, and we need YOUR help. Voting is open now through February 9. You can vote once every day in both categories! Cast your vote here!

More of Martin Luther King Jr.’s life in pictures here.

20 Best Coffee Shops in Upstate NY From drive-thru coffee huts to cozy cafés perfect for lingering, the region is brewing up some of the best coffee spots around. Which are the best of the best? Check out the list!

Monday Morning Memo has won two PRSA Excalibur Awards.

OD&A is ranked #7 among WNY’s fastest growing companies for 2025.

CSNY names OD&A a 2025 Top Place to Work!

Image of Speaker Carl Heastie courtesy of Assembly Member Harry Bronson on X

Good morning from Albany, New York, where Governor Kathy Hochul is set to deliver her annual State of the State address tomorrow at 1 pm from Albany’s newly renovated The Egg.

The Egg Reopens Following $19.5 Million Renovation

The Egg in Albany underwent a nearly $20 million renovation. Read more at Spectrum News.

Last week, Hochul previewed a number of proposals that will be included in Tuesday’s address, including the “Stop Online Predators Act.” The legislation would restrict certain AI chatbot interactions and require online platforms to automatically implement the highest privacy settings for users under 18. Internet platforms would also have to receive parental consent for any financial transactions for users under 13 and provide parents with a list of users connected to the child’s account. At a press conference, Hochul offered, “As New York’s first mom Governor, the well-being and safety of our children has always been one of my top priorities, and today we are continuing to break new ground to give our kids the tools and safeguards they need to contend with the unprecedented mental health challenges and real world dangers that can sometimes be a byproduct of navigating today’s digital world.”

Joined by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg and Brooklyn DA Eric Gonzalez, Hochul also announced new legislation cracking down on illegally 3D-printed ‘ghost guns.’ The proposal establishes criminal penalties for manufacturing 3D-printed firearms and would implement safety standards for 3D-printer manufacturers to prevent the production of firearm parts. It also requires 3D-printed guns to be reported to the New York State Police’s Criminal Gun Clearing House. Hochul declared, “When I took office, I made a promise to New Yorkers to attack the gun violence epidemic head-on, and as gun technology continues to evolve, so do our strongest-in-the-nation gun laws. From the iron pipeline to the plastic pipeline, these proposals will keep illegal ghost guns off of New York streets and enhance measures to track and block the production of dangerous and illegal firearms in our state. I remain committed to continuing the progress we saw in 2025 to reduce gun violence in New York and ensuring our laws remain the strongest and safest in the nation.”

For a complete legislative roadmap, the team at OD&A has prepared a very thorough and engaging policy preview:

Read here!

The most ambitious proposal—so far at least—is Hochul’s plan to implement universal childcare for children under five years old. Joined at a press conference in Flatbush by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, Hochul announced the state will be investing an additional $1.7 billion to increase the availability of quality childcare in New York City and across the state. Additionally, Hochul said New York State will fund the first two years of New York City’s 2-Care program, which will provide free childcare to children as young as 2 years old, starting in “high-need areas” and expanding citywide by the 2029-30 school year. The plan will also guarantee universal Pre-K access to all 4-year-old children by 2028. In addition to increased funding for childcare subsidies, Hochul’s plan establishes an Office of Child Care and Early Education to oversee the rollout of the aforementioned childcare initiatives. Mamdani lauded Hochul’s proposal, saying at the press conference, “Over the past 14 months, a movement was born to fight for a city where every New Yorker could afford a life of dignity and every family could afford to raise their kids. Today, Governor Hochul and I meet that movement as we celebrate our joint commitment to universal child care. This victory represents much more than a triumph of city and state government working in partnership—it is proof that when New Yorkers come together, we can transform the way the government serves working families.”

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You can tune into Hochul’s State of the Address tomorrow here.

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Albany is back… and our Jack O'Donnell says the pressure is on! LISTEN here as he talks to Susan Arbetter, host of #CapitalTonight about the biggest issue this session—the balancing act between the state & a new NYC mayor with a big agenda.

The 2026 Legislative Session officially kicked off last week with lawmakers gavelling in and quickly gavelling out on Wednesday. Lt. Governor Antonio Delgado presided over the first day of session in the Senate, taking advantage of one of the last official duties that Hochul has not stripped from him since he announced his candidacy for governor. While most lawmakers are walking a fine line between professional courtesy for Delgado while not crossing an incumbent governor, Senator Jabari Brisport announced his endorsement of Delgado last week, offering this rationale: “New Yorkers are demanding leadership that meets this moment with courage, clarity, and a real plan to make life affordable. Antonio Delgado has shown he is willing to take on powerful interests, tax the ultra-wealthy, and partner with movements and legislators to deliver real change.” Stay tuned to see which other lawmakers follow Brisport’s lead.

N.Y. Assembly Speaker Discusses Trump Cuts, Energy Policy, and Redistricting

Capital Tonight’s Susan Arbetter goes one-on-one with Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie. Watch here.

Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie hosted their respective welcome receptions before offering opening remarks to their Chambers. Stewart-Cousins indicated one of her main priorities will be New York for All, legislation that would create statewide standards for how state and local law enforcement interact with federal immigration authorities. In her speech, Stewart-Cousins said, “We will stand firm in defense of voting rights and equal rights, with one of our central focuses being standing up for communities that are being targeted and marginalized, which includes protecting our immigrant brothers and sisters by advancing the goals of New York for All.” Heastie’s remarks were centered on affordability and addressing the economic precarity felt by millions of New Yorkers, telling his conference, “I urge us to remember the fact that we know how to take care of families here in New York. In spite of all that Washington is doing to us, we know how to fight to ensure that every New Yorker can climb the economic ladder of success. That every child in every home from Long Island to Buffalo can dream of a better tomorrow.”

Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins: “These are times that demand clarity, responsibility, and focus.”

Read more in Empire Report.

Some veteran lawmakers were offering advice for their first-year colleagues to get through the organized chaos of a legislative session. Assembly Member Stacey Pheffer Amato, who is retiring after a decade in the Assembly, offered, “Pack a blanket and a pillow, and stock the refrigerator with liquor. My liquor’s in the office. It’s well-packed.” Assembly Member John Zaccaro had more pragmatic advice, telling his freshman colleagues, “Learn first, but also have fun. And save your money and prepare for a long budget.” There will be more fresh faces after the three special elections on February 3rd to replace former State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal, former State Senator Sean Ryan, and former Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani.

Buffalo Brief: Jack O'Donnell

WATCH here as Jack joins Kelsey Anderson and Dave Greber of News 4 Buffalo with an inside look at the issues driving the new Legislative Session in Albany.

In other election news, a contested congressional primary race in New York’s 10th District is set to test the strength of the nascent political alliance between Hochul and Mamdani. Hochul officially endorsed incumbent Rep. Dan Goldman last week, while Mamdani’s camp has opted to support New York City Comptroller Brad Lander’s primary challenge. Hochul downplayed the dueling endorsements, arguing that it will not impact the business of government, telling reporters, "I feel very confident that New Yorkers will not get the drama that perhaps is only enjoyed by the press. It’s not going to be there because we have work to do. We have a city and state that are counting on us to actually lead and not be actors in the larger political theater.” While Hochul and Mamdani have been able to keep their political disagreements cordial, the same cannot be said for the candidates themselves. At his campaign launch, Goldman suggested Lander is in the race for the wrong reasons, offering, “I have stood up to Donald Trump, and I’ve won. That is what New Yorkers want. They don’t just want performative politicians who are looking for their next job. They want people with the experience and the knowledge to get results.” Lander has leaned into an economic populist message and Goldman’s support for Israel to differentiate himself from the incumbent, saying through a spokesperson, “Heir to the Levi Strauss fortune, Dan Goldman literally chummed it up with Don Jr. on vacation in the Bahamas, praising Trump’s Israel policy.” Goldman has also banked endorsements from Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal, and Assembly Member Grace Lee, while Lander won the backing of the United Auto Workers Union Region 9A.

N.Y. Gov. Kathy Hochul, NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani are on opposite sides in 10th Congressional District race

Gov. Kathy Hochul and Mayor Zohran Mamdani find themselves on opposite sides of one of the most closely watched congressional races in the nation​. Read more at CBS News.

 -Jack O’Donnell

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Jack is back ‘From the Lobby’ to break down the OD&A Legislative Preview: 🎙️Albany’s high-wire act over progressive policies 🎙️Political shifts & the Mamdani effect 🎙️High-stakes midterm elections & political party factions 🎙️NY’s most-watched policies in 2026

Bank of America Building Eyed for $50M Renovation

The Bank of America building in downtown Buffalo could be turned mostly into apartments under a new plan by its owner, OD&A client, Ciminelli Development. Read more in The Buffalo News.

Emma DeForest from Sen. Schumer’s office, Patrick Kennedy of the NYS Comptroller’s Office & OD&A’s Michael Greco

OD&A was there as the Buffalo Niagara Partnership unveiled its 2026 Advocacy Agenda, a clear roadmap for strengthening the regional economy and advancing policies that drive growth and opportunity. Together with business and civic leaders, we’re working to build a future where workers thrive, businesses succeed, and graduates see Buffalo Niagara as a place to build their careers.

Click here to see which NY legislator is the M&M’s fan!

January 12, 1991: The House passed a resolution authorizing President George H.W. Bush to use military force against Iraq in what became a successful effort to oust Iraqi invaders from Kuwait. Iraq had occupied its oil-rich neighbor since August 1990. Take a look back here.

President George H.W. Bush with U.S. troops. Photo via Wikimedia Commons

15 Best Restaurants in Buffalo for Wings, Pizza, and Fine Dining Condé Nast Traveler sets its sights on Buffalo's food scene and ranks some of its cultural gems. Read on!

Monday Morning Memo has won two PRSA Excalibur Awards.

OD&A is ranked #7 among WNY’s fastest growing companies for 2025.

CSNY names OD&A a 2025 Top Place to Work!

NYC Mayor Mamdani on X

Good morning from Albany, New York, where the 2026 Legislative Session begins this week! The New York State Assembly and Senate are set to gavel in on Wednesday, January 7. The maelstrom begins in earnest with Governor Kathy Hochul’s State of the State scheduled for Tuesday, January 13 at 1:00 p.m. 

Hochul will be talking affordability. For much more on that and a full legislative roadmap, the team at OD&A has prepared a very thorough and engaging policy preview:

Read here!

A key part of that preview is the changing dynamics and demands that will come with four of the state’s five largest cities swearing in new mayors last week. Obviously, the biggest—and the biggest changes—and the biggest soapbox—and represented by the most (and many of the most powerful) state legislators is New York City. Mayor Zohran Mamdani was sworn in just after midnight in a ceremony held underground at an abandoned showpiece of a subway station by City Hall.

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In his speech, Mamdani reemphasized his ambition: “Beginning today, we will govern expansively and audaciously. We may not always succeed, but never will we be accused of lacking the courage to try. To those who insist that the era of big government is over, hear me when I say this: No longer will City Hall hesitate to use its power to improve New Yorkers’ lives.” The ceremony was presided over by Attorney General Tish James, whose political influence continues to grow and be exercised strategically, always delivering results.

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Roughly 150 miles to the north, Dorcey Applyrs was sworn in as Albany’s first Black mayor in a private ceremony at The Palace Theatre. In her speech, Applyrs said, “This moment is the result of generations of perseverance by people who loved Albany. They fought for this city, they invested in it, and they kept alive a belief in its future—even when the deck seemed stacked against them. I carry that perseverance and that history with me, and I will honor it by recommitting myself every day to the work that lies ahead.” Albany is seeing some serious state investment thanks to Hochul and Applyrs will have the challenge—and opportunity—of investing it.

Sharon Owens Sworn In as Syracuse Mayor in Emotional Ceremony in City Hall

The former deputy mayor is the city's first Black mayor and second female mayor. She thanked supporters for believing in her. More from syracuse.com.

In Syracuse, former Deputy Mayor Sharon Owens was sworn in as the 55th mayor, becoming the first Black and second female mayor in the city's history. In her remarks, Owens reiterated the three priorities she campaigned on, offering, “Continue to be housing, continue to be public safety, continue to be our infrastructure, particularly lead replacement, making sure that we have had different conversations with department heads about how we want to move forward and do things.” Central New York is gearing up for Micron, and Owens has the challenge of trying to raise the city along with it.

Sean Ryan was officially sworn in on New Year's Day, becoming Buffalo’s first newly elected mayor in two decades. In his speech at Kleinhans Music Hall, Ryan said, “I am deeply honored and profoundly humbled to stand before you as the mayor of the city of Buffalo. I promise you this—I will work every single day to earn your trust.”

Mayor Ryan with OD&A’s Dave Granville at his inauguration.

Ryan campaigned on improving basic civic services, but he also needs to manage very tough budget circumstances.

Ryan Takes Oath of Office as a New Era of City Government Begins

Sworn in as Buffalo's 64th mayor, Sean M. Ryan struck an optimistic tone in his inaugural address as he faces significant challenges as he enters the job. Read more in The Buffalo News.

Governor Hochul is hitting the pause button on a controversial bill that landed on her desk on New Year’s Eve. The legislation would create new judicial districts in Onondaga, Monroe, and Erie counties, but instead of rushing to sign or veto it, Hochul is using a provision in the state Constitution to give herself an extra month to weigh the decision.

Supporters of the bill, primarily Democrats, argue it is about fairness and diversifying the judiciary. They say redrawing the districts would ensure urban communities are represented by judges who better reflect the populations they preside over. Republicans claim the proposal is political gerrymandering, and it certainly is likely to help elect more Democrats to these new judicial districts. Judicial groups and bar associations have been divided in their approaches. Hochul has until February 6 to take action, but word on the street is that she plans to veto the bill.

Hochul Signs Bill to Stop Conservatives from Hijacking WFP Ballot Line

The new law makes it easier for the progressive third party to un-enroll someone “not in sympathy with the principles” of the party. More from City & State NY.

Hochul ultimately signed a bill empowering the state committees of political parties, in the absence of a county party, to initiate proceedings to disenroll party members. If a complaint is made that an individual is “not in sympathy with the principles of the party,” the bill permits the state committee of political parties to appoint an individual or committee to conduct disenrollment proceedings in counties that do not have organized county committees. The bill is intended to benefit the Working Families Party (WFP), which has seen its ballot line hijacked by Independents or Conservatives trying to win elections. Given that the WFP lacks local county committees, it has been impossible for them to conduct disenrollment proceedings under the current election law to regain their ballot line. The most high-profile exploration of the loophole was in 2024, when Anthony Frascone beat out former Rep. Mondaire Jones for the WFP ballot line in his bid for Congress, despite Frascone being a stranger to WFP officials and having voted with Republicans and Independents in the past. Hochul did not provide any commentary on the bill, but Assembly Sponsor Dana Levenberg offered, “In the absence of this legislation, political operatives have been running dubious campaigns for minor party lines to assist major party candidates seeking to win without earning the support of a majority of voters through honest campaigns. Governor Hochul's signature on this legislation will help deprive bad actors of an increasingly popular opportunity to cheat their way to victory.”

Most of the attention paid to legislation comes when lawmakers are in session and can actually act on bills, but over 700 new bills have been introduced since the Senate and Assembly gaveled out in June. Just another sign that 2026 is going to be wild! Thanks to our friend Dan Clark at Capitol Confidential, you can view the complete list of bills here.   

The Senate races to avoid a government shutdown with time ticking and lingering issues.

Read more from Fox News.

In Washington, D.C., lawmakers will return to the Capitol today with just 25 days to pass a funding package or risk another shutdown, and there are 43 weeks until Election Day, a day on everyone’s mind in Washington. 

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) indicated that he is willing to work with Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Republicans to pass the 12 annual Appropriations bills that make up a government funding package, but time is not on their side, and there is no guarantee that House Democrats will play ball. Some Democrats argue that nothing has changed since the last government shutdown, while the issue of healthcare subsidies is even more acute as millions of people see their premiums skyrocket. Thune offered, “I’m hoping we can avoid that. I’ve said this before, and I mean it… Nobody wins in a government shutdown, I think both sides, I’m hoping at least realize, that it’s important that we do our basic job, and that is to fund the government. So, we’ll find out when we get back, you know, how cooperative the Democrats want to be.”

House Republican leaders hope to put some FY2026 spending bills on the floor next week, though many are skeptical. If GOP leaders can get that done, it would be progress, something in short supply and something that rank-and-file members are demanding. Worth noting that the GOP’s already small majority will soon shrink when Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) resigns on Jan. 5. Johnson’s majority will then be 219-213. 

House Departures, Frustrations Make for Opposite of 'Normal, Boring Congress'

Dozens of House lawmakers are leaving their positions, causing disorder for Speaker Mike Johnson. Read more from the Fox National News Desk.

Republican leadership is worried as well, Reps. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), Cory Mills (R-Fla.), and Don Bacon (R-Neb.) might leave before their terms are up. Stefanik and Bacon are retiring, while Mills has had a lengthy list of ethics and legal issues.

Stay tuned!

Finally… Tucked away in Montana, there’s a school with a very specific mission: teaching people how to talk fast and sell even faster. Read on!

The Wall Street Journal

 -Jack O’Donnell

The O’Donnells ring in the new year abroad!

We know Upstate NY!

Our Jack O'Donnell is climbing City & State NY’s 2025 Upstate Power 100 list.

He’s honored to be among key New York leaders, colleagues, and clients across several industries whose influence and accomplishments are moving the region forward!

City & State NY writes: From his “From the Lobby” podcast and his Monday Morning Memo newsletter to his growing government relations portfolio, Jack O’Donnell is a go-to lobbyist, particularly in his native Western New York. He has helped position the University at Buffalo as a base for artificial intelligence nationally. A leader in the arts and culture space, he helped secure $220 million for the expansion of Buffalo’s AKG Art Museum and $115 million for the Neighborhood of Play at Rochester’s Strong National Museum of Play. O’Donnell’s firm has been expanding in Rochester and the Finger Lakes.

How can we help you grow? Let’s chat!

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Catch up with Jack on his most played 'From the Lobby' podcasts: 🎙️A New Law, Bombshell Poll, Political Exits 🎙️NY Gov. Race, RAISE Act, Healthcare Deadline 🎙️Medical Aid in Dying, NYC Pay Raises, Republican Strife

University of Rochester, Strong Museum Partner for Play and Game Research

University of Rochester and The Strong Museum are partnering to expand research, education, and community engagement in play and game studies. Read more in the Rochester Business Journal.

A great night in Buffalo as OD&A joined community leaders to welcome the new year at Mayor-elect Sean Ryan’s Inaugural Gala at Hotel at the Lafayette!

In the current economic climate, how much are you spending on the holidays this year?

More photos of New Year’s celebrations across the globe here!

January 5, 1949: President Truman unveils his ‘Fair Deal’ program to Congress, including national health insurance, public housing, civil rights legislation, education aid, and more. Look back here!

President Truman delivers his “Fair Deal” message in his State of the Union address.

The Books You Need to Read in 2026 From fiction to essential memoirs, food and drink, and history titles, 2026 is shaping up to be a strong year in publishing. Check out some of the best books hitting newsstands this year!

Monday Morning Memo has won two PRSA Excalibur Awards.

OD&A is ranked #7 among WNY’s fastest growing companies for 2025.

CSNY names OD&A a 2025 Top Place to Work!

Governor Hochul Reaches Agreement With State Legislature to Pass Medical Aid in Dying Act

Good morning from Albany, New York, where the 2025 Legislative Session business is almost completed for the year!

Governor Kathy Hochul called up over 100 bills last week, including a high-profile measure that will permit doctors to assist terminally ill patients in ending their own lives. Hochul ultimately decided to support the controversial bill, known as Medical Aid in Dying, after weeks of negotiations with the sponsors, but said it was “one of the toughest decisions” she has made as Governor. Speaking on her decision, Hochul offered, “I can’t stand here—even as a Catholic and say I can’t allow someone else to do something that I perhaps would not do. I cannot stand in their way. I’m hoping that [our faith leaders] give me some grace to pray for me—as all of them said they would do—as we continue to focus on issues affecting the living.” 

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The legislation allows doctors to prescribe life-ending medication to terminally ill patients with less than six months to live, and includes guardrails such as a residency requirement, a five-day waiting period, and a requirement that the patient submit an audio or video recording of their request for the lethal medication. The Archdiocese of New York, along with the Bishops of New York State, expressed their disappointment with Hochul’s decision, saying in a statement, “This new law signals our government’s abandonment of its most vulnerable citizens, telling people who are sick or disabled that suicide in their case is not only acceptable, but is encouraged by our elected leaders. Tragically, this new law will seriously undermine all of the anti-suicide and mental health care investments Governor Hochul has made through her tenure.” 

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Hochul also made national news, signing the Responsible AI Safety and Education (RAISE) Act, a nation-leading safety and transparency framework for frontier artificial intelligence models aimed at mitigating potential catastrophic risks from the most powerful models, while ensuring New York can continue to be a leading home and site of advancement for the AI industry. The final bill will require developers of frontier AI models to publish a safety and security plan on how the company identifies, assesses, and mitigates catastrophic risks. Perhaps most importantly, the bill creates a first-of-its-kind regulator of frontier models, which will be an office under the Department of Financial Services. That Office will submit annual reports to the Governor and the Legislature recommending potential updates to reflect rapid advancements in AI. The legislation is a major win for its sponsors—Assembly Member Alex Bores and Senator Andrew Gounardes—who both helped lift the bill past major opposition from well-funded and deeply entrenched opponents. It is also a historic win for our client, Secure AI Project, and for the OD&A team who led the advocacy efforts on this initiative.

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In a big win for New York State Attorney General Tish James, Hochul approved the FAIR Business Practices Act, subject to a significant chapter amendment. This legislation significantly expands the Attorney General’s consumer protection powers. Much of this conversation has been driven by former Federal Trade Commission Chair Lina Khan—currently a member of the Mamdani transition team—for states to strengthen their consumer protection laws in response to federal regulatory rollbacks by the Trump administration. In a statement after the signing, James said, “I am proud to have worked alongside Senator Comrie and Assemblymember Lasher to update our most important consumer protection law for the first time in 45 years to stop predatory lenders, abusive debt collectors, dishonest mortgage servicers, and so much more. At a time when the federal government is abandoning working people and raising the cost of living, this law will help us stop companies from taking advantage of New Yorkers.” 

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In a win for environmental advocates, Hochul signed legislation ending the “100-foot rule,” which requires existing ratepayers to subsidize the first 100 feet of new natural gas lines. In a statement, Hochul said, “It’s simply unfair, especially when so many people are struggling right now, to expect existing utility ratepayers to foot the bill for a gas hookup at a brand new house that is not their own. I have made affordability a top priority, and doing away with this 40-year-old subsidy that has outlived its purpose will help with that.” Under the new law, which goes into effect in 12 months, utilities will still have an “obligation to serve” new residential hookups, but shifts the cost to the applicant rather than current ratepayers.  

Hochul Signs Amended Prison Reform Package into Law

The reforms were passed in honor of Robert Brooks. More from Spectrum News State of Politics.

Hochul signed a prison reform package after reaching a deal with lawmakers and the state Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) on the bill’s final language. The new law will require prisons and local jails to have 24-hour surveillance cameras in all areas of the jail, except showers and the interior of cells. The final agreement omits the original mandate to provide footage of a prison death to the state attorney general’s office within 72 hours, instead requiring prison officials to make “a good faith effort” to provide the footage. The new law also mandates DOCCS to notify the next of kin of the death of a person in prison within 48 hours, up from the 24 hours as initially proposed. Senator Julia Salazar, Senate Crime Victims, Crime and Correction Committee Chair, said in a statement, “Although the to-be-enacted bill does not include everything we had hoped for, it is nonetheless a serious step toward making New York state prisons less violent. For too long, our prisons have been plagued by staff abuse toward incarcerated individuals, with little to no recourse.” 

There were plenty of vetoes from Hochul’s office as well, including the Health Information Privacy Act, which advocates say would have strengthened privacy protections for individuals seeking gender-affirming care and reproductive healthcare. The measure would have regulated the collection and selling of health information by third parties and would require additional disclosures when regulated health information is processed. The bill was heavily lobbied against by the Business Council and over 50 other organizations. 

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In a surprise to many, especially the bill’s sponsors, Hochul vetoed legislation that would have required LLCs to disclose more information about their actual owners. Hochul signed similar legislation two years ago, but actions from the Trump administration required lawmakers to make minor changes to ensure the law achieves its original intent. Assembly Sponsor Emily Gallagher did not pull any punches in her criticism of Hochul: “The governor likes to pay lip service to the pressure that she feels from the left, but she has absolutely no vested interest in the left being successful. And she has a deep vested interest in the billionaires continuing to be able to exploit people in this state.” Hochul’s standing and cooperation with the Left will be a major factor we are watching in 2026.

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In the biggest surprise of the season, Rep. Elise Stefanik dropped her bid for Governor of New York after formally entering the race just over one month ago. In a statement on social media, Stefanik said she was dropping out to be more present with her son and to avoid a protracted GOP primary contest, offering, “While we would have overwhelmingly won this primary, it is not an effective use of our time or your generous resources to spend the first half of next year in an unnecessary and protracted Republican primary, especially in a challenging state like New York.” This explainer is worth a read: Elise Stefanik Tried Everything to Please Trump. He Still Jilted Her.

Stefanik’s announcement leaves Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman as the lone Republican candidate. Stefanik had the money and name recognition and momentum to win a primary and make the campaign interesting. Blakeman offers different challenges. He is an executive and has been strong on several wedge issues, notably banning transgender athletes from high school sports in Nassau County. Blakeman is also a moderate on abortion, a position that will appeal to swing voters. The unity of the Nassau County GOP is another strength and means strong challenges for Congress Members Tom Suozzi and Laura Gillen.

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That said, a new poll from Siena College—before Stefanik bowed out—shows Hochul with a 25-point lead in a hypothetical head-to-head matchup with Blakeman. Nonetheless, the data found deeper in the crosstabs still provides valuable insight into the views of New York’s electorate heading into 2026. While Hochul has remained reticent about raising taxes on the wealthy, the poll found that 65% of voters support increased taxes on New Yorkers earning more than $1 million to fund universal free childcare through pre-K. Increasing taxes to eliminate bus fares in New York City is less popular, but is still supported by a margin of 50-41%, according to the poll. Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, the man who proposed the aforementioned policies, has seen his favorability rating jump from 55% to 31% in November to 61% to 23% in December. Hochul has expressed a willingness to work with Mamdani on implementing universal childcare, but has not identified a revenue stream to fund the estimated $15 billion annual price tag. As recently as this month, Hochul reiterated she has no interest in raising income taxes, but has signaled that she could be open to a hike in the corporate tax rate to generate revenue. New York’s corporate tax rate maxes out at 7.25%, and Mamdani has proposed raising it to 11.25% to bring the state in line with neighboring New Jersey. Tune into Hochul’s State of the State address on January 13th to see where she lands on the tax question.  

📢 Is NY Governor Kathy Hochul unbeatable?

Our Jack O'Donnell goes ‘From the Lobby’ to talk about her strong poll numbers against GOP opponents… LISTEN here! Also: 🎙️​How incoming NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani and his progressive agenda are gaining ground with New Yorkers statewide. ​🎙️What’s next for Eric Adams and Andrew Cuomo? Is either truly finished on the political stage?

Despite the pressures of serving as Democratic Senate Leader and a 43-day government shutdown, Senator Chuck Schumer’s amazing 26-year streak of visiting each of New York’s 62 counties continues as the indefatigable elected official stopped at a dairy farm in Columbia County last week.

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Just over a month ago, the Senator had barely visited half of them, and speculation was rife—including in this space—that he might not make it. Schumer has made a point of keeping the roadshow alive even as he has been elevated to leadership positions, telling reporters, “It’s not a hobby. It’s a work requirement. You can’t do this job well by sitting at a desk or even just talking on a phone. You have to be out there.” Even with his streak intact, Schumer has had a more muted presence in the state this year as drawn-out policy fights have kept him in Washington, but this is just another reminder that it is always a mistake to count out Chuck Schumer, who continues to be an unstoppable political force.  

In Washington, D.C., the House passed a Republican-led healthcare bill last week that notably does not address the expiring Affordable Care Act tax credits, all but guaranteeing that health insurance premiums will skyrocket for millions of Americans. Four Republicans— Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick, Mike Lawler, Rob Bresnahan, and Ryan Mackenzie— bucked leadership and signed onto a discharge petition from House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries to force a floor vote on a clean three-year extension, though the vote is not likely to occur until after the subsidies lapse in January. 

GOP Centrists Push Democratic Obamacare Discharge Petition to 218-Signature Threshold

Disgruntled centrist Republicans raced to sign a Democratic discharge petition, extending Obamacare subsidies for three years. More from The Hill.

On social media, Lawler offered, “When leadership blocks action entirely, Congress has a responsibility to act. My priority is ensuring Hudson Valley families aren’t caught in the gridlock.” In the meantime, according to an independent policy research group, premium payments are set to increase by an average of $1,016 at the end of the year. House Speaker Mike Johnson downplayed the revolt from within his own conference, telling reporters, “We have the smallest majority in U.S. history, OK? These are not normal times. There are [processes] and procedures in the House that are less frequently used when there are larger majorities. When you have a razor-thin margin, as we do, then all the procedures in the book people think are on the table, and that's the difference.” The House bill will now head to the Senate, which has left town for the year, but that bill, as well as the Democratic discharge petition, will likely be dead on arrival if it passes the House in January. The Senate already rejected a clean three-year extension of the subsidies, though a number of Republicans sided with Democrats and voted for the measure. 

A Milestone Pediatric Cancer Bill Fails at the Hands of Bernie

The Vermont senator is holding out for a bigger health care package. More in The Bulwark.

An odd episode unfolded in the Senate on Wednesday night as a years-long effort to pass legislation to streamline drug development and accelerate research for pediatric cancer was about to cross the finish line . . . until it was blocked by Senator Bernie Sanders. While most expected the Senate to send the bill to Trump’s desk via unanimous consent, Sanders announced his opposition to the quick passage of the bill, effectively tabling it until at least the new year. Sanders did not take issue with the intent of the legislation, but opposed other extraneous measures attached to the bill that he argued would make it harder to achieve different health priorities later. Senator Markwayne Mullin blasted Sanders for standing in the way, saying in a statement, “Bernie Sanders has been in Congress since I was 13 years old. He knows good and well the only reason the Mikaela Naylon Give Kids a Chance Act didn’t pass is because he’s the only person who objected to it. If it weren’t for The Grinch, our bipartisan bill would have passed by unanimous consent and become law before Christmas Day.” 

Senators Leave for the Holidays Without Passing Funding Package

Leaders hope to pass the legislation in early January—just weeks before the next shutdown deadline. Read more in Politico.

On a parallel track, House and Senate leadership are working to pass the twelve appropriations bills that make up a government funding package before the January 30th deadline. After approving three of the bills in November, Senate Majority Leader John Thune was hoping to pass a five-bill “minibus” to fund the Department of Defense, Labor, Health and Human Services and Education, Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, Commerce, Justice and Science, and Interior and Environment, but ultimately left town without passing any of them. Senate GOP leadership attempted to bring up the bills for a vote on Thursday, but Democratic Sens. Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper blocked the vote in response to White House Budget Director Russ Vought’s decision to dismantle the National Center for Atmospheric Research. Thune offered, “I’m disappointed that we will not be moving to our second package of appropriations bills tonight. Republicans were ready to go. I want this body to know that I remain as committed as ever to funding the government through the regular order process.” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer is committed to advancing funding bills next month, telling reporters, “We want to get through the process and get the appropriations bills done. Our goal is to have full appropriations for the rest of the fiscal 2026 year… by Jan. 30.” Of course, the House will have its say, and the partisan horse-trading will not begin until Senate appropriators reach an agreement on overall bill totals. Stay tuned! 

As the year comes to a close, we want to thank you for starting each week with our Monday Morning Memo. We wish you and your loved ones a happy, healthy holiday season and a bright, successful 2026! The Monday Morning Memo will be off next week as our team takes time to celebrate the season with family and friends. We’ll be back in your inbox on January 5th with our 2026 Legislative Session Preview, an in-depth look at what lies ahead in Albany.

We’ll return ready to cover every development in what is already shaping up to be a session worth watching!

Finally, a unique job for one of the world's most expensive nuclear plants in Britain. They are using a deep-sea boom box to protect marine life, but it’s not exactly dropping hits! Read on!

The twaite shad is endangered in Britain. © Buiten-Beeld/Alamy

-Jack O’Donnell

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Jack goes ‘From the Lobby"‘ on the latest decisions and dynamics shaping New York politics: 🎙️Why Hochul signed the Medical Aid in Dying Act 🎙️Bombshell poll on the NY governor’s race 🎙️How Zohran Mamdani is gaining ground statewide 🎙️What’s next for Adams and Cuomo?

NY Medical Schools Press Gov. Hochul to Put Up Billions for Scientific Research

A coalition of New York medical schools and leading research institutions, including OD&A client, University at Buffalo, is urging Governor Kathy Hochul to invest billions of state dollars in a new biomedical research fund, as uncertainty continues to surround federal science funding.

Listen to more coverage here from the Capitol Pressroom.

If the 2026 General Election for New York governor were held today, which candidate would you support?

Read on!

December 22, 1941: Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, Winston Churchill visited President Franklin D. Roosevelt at the White House to coordinate war strategy. The meeting culminated in the lighting of the White House Christmas tree.

Churchill & Roosevelt/War Room

Buffalo Sleighs the Competition for Most Holiday Cheer Why was the Queen City crowned the most ‘Christmasy’ city in America? Read on!

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Governor Kathy Hochul signed first-in-the-nation legislation to protect consumers and boost AI transparency in the film industry.

Good morning from Buffalo, New York, on this first day of Hanukkah, a time that reminds us that even in the darkest moments, light endures. We stand with Jewish communities around the world and mourn the lives lost in the tragic attack in Sydney. May the candles bring comfort, strength, and renewed hope for peace.

Governor Kathy Hochul has continued to make her way through the hundreds of bills passed by the Legislature earlier this year, this time issuing a flurry of vetoes for the first time in nearly two months. Among the bills she rejected was a high-profile measure that would have amended wrongful death statutes by allowing recovery for non-economic damages, known as the Grieving Families Act. This was the fourth year in a row that Hochul has vetoed the legislation and expressed frustration with the legislature for continuing to send it to her desk, telling reporters, “Don’t pass the same bill four times if you want a different result.” Hochul also vetoed legislation that would have prevented a mayor from kicking referendums initiated by a city council off the ballot in favor of their own. The legislation was a reaction from New York City Council members to outgoing Mayor Eric Adams employing that power earlier this year, but Hochul indicated in her veto message that the legislation was too broad and would have impacts beyond New York City. 

Utility Watchdog Bill Vetoed

Governor Kathy Hochul vetoed a bill that would have created an independent State Office of the Utility Consumer Advocate, citing budgetary concerns and duplication of existing state agencies. Read more from WTEN.

Hochul issued a blanket veto of 18 bills that would have established various task forces and commissions, estimated to cost $30 million, with funding not included in the budget. In her veto message, Hochul said, “Without appropriate funding, these unbudgeted costs would create significant staffing and other programmatic burdens on state agencies.” A handful of bills that would have further regulated utility companies were also vetoed, including measures requiring utilities to provide a 45-day written notice of any rate hikes and a proposal requiring property owners to be notified before maintenance work begins. Also vetoed was a bill that would have tasked the Empire State Plaza Art Commission with renaming the four office buildings on the west side of Empire State Plaza—currently creatively named one, two, three, and four.  

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Hochul outright signed or agreed to chapter amendments on a number of bills as well. One of the bills she signed will allow for “retail-to-retail” liquor sales, allowing bars and restaurants to purchase alcohol from retail stores when their regular wholesale orders run out before the next scheduled delivery. Hochul signed a pair of higher education bills, one of which requires educational institutions to include a clearer calculation of the true cost of attendance in a student’s award letter. The other bill ensures that students granted diplomas through online programs accredited with the federal Jobs Corps Policy & Requirements Handbook are eligible for admission to New York’s colleges and universities. 

State Operations Head Kathryn Garcia Tapped as Next Port Authority Director

Gov. Kathy Hochul nominated Kathryn Garcia the next executive director of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. Read more in amNY.

Hochul’s Executive Chamber team will be getting a shakeup with the announcement last week that current Director of State Operations, Kathryn Garcia, will be leaving her post to serve as the next Executive Director of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. In a statement, Hochul said, “I have long believed that my greatest talent is finding talent, and I am fortunate to have two of New York’s most talented public servants as my Director of State Operations. I am incredibly grateful to have had Kathryn Garcia serve in that role for more than four years, during which time she helped us transform New York for the better.” Hochul also announced that Garcia’s successor will be Jackie Bray, the current Commissioner of the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Operations. Hochul expressed confidence in Bray’s ability to step into the role, widely considered one of the most powerful non-elected positions in state government, saying in a statement, “Kathryn leaves big shoes to fill, but New Yorkers could not ask for a better leader to step into this critical role than Jackie Bray. As Commissioner of the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, Jackie has helped lead the State’s emergency management response through extreme weather, infectious disease outbreaks, and threats to our public safety.” 

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The state Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) announced last week that it is extending the deadline for New York’s recreational marijuana market to implement a mandatory “seed-to-sale” digital tracking system from December 17th to January 12th. The program, intended to crack down on illicit cannabis sales by tracking products along the entire supply chain, raised concern among industry stakeholders who were worried about the implementation interrupting sales during one of the busiest times of year for the marijuana market. While the delay is a welcome development, many cultivators and retailers see the long-overdue digital tracking system as another onerous compliance regulation that will drive up costs. This all comes amid another leadership shakeup at OCM, with Hochul calling for the resignations of Felicia A.B. Reid, who has served as OCM’s acting executive director since June 2024, and OCM Deputy Counsel James Rogers. In a statement, Hochul offered, “Too often, the Office of Cannabis Management has stood in the way of the market realizing its potential, including most recently in the case of a pending compliance action that it has had to withdraw. As a result, I directed my office to take action, including requesting the resignation of the acting executive director. That resignation has been accepted and is effective immediately.” What a mess.

In political news, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman announced a run for governor, setting up a contentious GOP primary against Rep. Elise Stefanik. Blakeman was elected County Executive in 2021 and has touted his ability to win in areas where Democrats outnumber Republicans, as is the case in Nassau County. Stefanik, running a decidedly more MAGA campaign, is already pushing back on Blakeman’s campaign and pitching herself as the strongest candidate to defeat Hochul, saying through a spokesman, “Elise is the strongest candidate against Kathy Hochul by a long shot. Elise has outrun President Trump on the ballot by more than any Republican in New York State, including Bruce. Elise has led the most effective attacks on the Worst Governor in America, Kathy Hochul, as Bruce Blakeman has worked overtime to torpedo fellow Republicans.” President Trump has not yet given a formal endorsement to either candidate, telling reporters, “I'll think about it. But he's great. And she's great. They're both great people. We have a lot of great people in the Republican Party.” Though there are indications the president tried to dissuade Blakeman. More here.

Bruce Blakeman Touts Executive Experience in Race for N.Y. Governor

Blakeman’s resume is a long one. WATCH his interview with Capital Tonight’s Susan Arbetter.

“Many of them are saying to me I have a better chance to win because I have the executive background.” The New York Republican Party will formally issue its endorsement at the party convention in February, giving both candidates plenty of time to lobby GOP power players for their support. Of course, the person happiest about this development?  Kathy Hochul.

In Texas, both parties are mired in messy Senate primary fights, interparty battles that their respective campaign arms have traditionally been able to avoid. On the Republican side, Senate leadership spent millions of dollars on TV ads to boost incumbent Senator John Cornyn over Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, which polling has shown had little to no effect on the race. Rather than clear the field for Cornyn, the infighting has led another candidate, Rep. Wesley Hunt, to enter the race. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) made it clear that GOP leadership prefers Cornyn, saying, “Obviously, we’re looking at preserving and protecting our majority here. We think that John Cornyn’s not only an incredibly effective senator, but is the best general election candidate. And it would save everybody a lot of money if he’s the nominee. So that’s been our view, is our view. It’s gonna be up to the voters in Texas.” Expect this fight to drag on past the March primary and into a runoff in May. Things are equally contentious on the Democratic side with Rep. Jasmine Crockett’s entrance into the race, and the subsequent announcement from Rep. Colin Allred that he is suspending his Senate campaign and will instead run for the state’s 33rd Congressional District to avoid a “bruising primary.” Crockett will be running against state Rep. James Talarico, a 36-year-old progressive who has developed a national profile through media appearances and an interview with podcaster Joe Rogan. According to a recent poll, 51% of likely Democratic voters planned to support Crockett in the March primary, and 43% intended to vote for Talarico, with 6% unsure. 

Jasmine Crockett won’t release her polling, but says she would win the Senate race.

Crockett said she was already leading in some polls even before announcing a candidacy or expressing her interest. More from Spectrum News 1.

Also in Texas, Democratic Rep. Henry Cuellar has filed to run for reelection after he and his wife were pardoned by Trump earlier this month. Cuellar was indicted during the Biden administration on 12 counts of bribery, conspiracy, and money laundering stemming from the allegation that he received nearly $600,000 in bribes from the Central Asian country of Azerbaijan. Trump expressed sympathy for Cuellar and indicated that his indictment was another example of the “weaponized” Biden Department of Justice, but he has since changed his tune after Cuellar announced he would be running for reelection as a Democrat. In a post on social media, Trump declared, “Such a lack of LOYALTY, something that Texas Voters, and Henry’s daughters, will not like. Oh well, next time, no more Mr. Nice guy!” 

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Democrats are celebrating a rare win in Florida after Miami voters elected Eileen Higgins as mayor in last week’s runoff, the first woman in the city’s history to hold the job and the first Democrat in 28 years. Higgins, a former county commissioner, said in her victory speech, “Miami chose a new direction. You chose competence over chaos, results over excuses, and a city government that finally works for you.” Both Higgins and her Republican opponent, Emilio Gonzalez, rejected overly partisan campaigns, instead focusing on quality-of-life issues and on making city government run more efficiently. Still, national Democrats hope the victory is further evidence of a broader shift to the left among the national electorate heading into the 2026 midterms. Trump won Miami-Dade County by 11 points in 2024, though he narrowly lost the City of Miami. 

Here's a fun activity for our readers to try at home, especially if things start to slow down over the holiday season. Could be the coolest or worst thing you’ve ever done. Read on!

© Mattias Krantz

Finally, is 6-7 really over?

-Jack O’Donnell

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Jack on the hotly-contested showdown for NY Governor and more: 🎙️Who has the edge in a Stefanik/Blakeman primary? 🎙️NYS Democratic Convention in Buffalo? 🎙️Will Hochul agree to regulate AI? 🎙️Can a deal be reached in D.C. to extend healthcare subsidies?

OD&A on LinkedIn: A remarkable tribute to a remarkable career!

OD&A was proud to join our client, Trillium Health, in honoring its founder, Dr. William Valenti, at its annual World AIDS Day event for his extraordinary service and leadership over more than four decades on the front lines of the HIV epidemic. Dr. Valenti is an infectious disease physician who began seeing AIDS patients in Rochester in 1981, when the first cases were reported. In a packed Hyatt Regency ballroom, local and state leaders paid tribute to his tremendous impact on Rochester, with State Senator Jeremy Cooney awarding him New York State’s highest civilian honor, the Liberty Medal. The event highlights the progress made and the work that remains on the path toward an AIDS-free generation. Trillium President & CEO Jason Barnecut-Kearns is pictured above with Dr. Valenti and Senator Cooney. Read more!

OD&A’s Marc Cohen on LinkedIn: Big news for housing access and affordability in New York State!

Governor Kathy Hochul’s signing of S7120/A7512 means manufactured homes are now classified as real property which expands access to traditional financing and long-term stability for homeowners. We’re grateful to the Governor for signing this important legislation and proud to have partnered with Cook Properties CEO Jeffrey Cook, whose leadership helped drive this effort. Thank you to Senator Sean Ryan, Assemblywoman Sarah Anderson Clark, and Assemblyman D. Billy Jones, and their incredible teams, for shepherding this bill through the Legislature! This is a huge and meaningful step forward for housing equity and affordability, and a strong example of what’s possible when public and private partners work together to drive change.

Do you support moving NY’s 2028 presidential primary to Super Tuesday, giving the state a bigger influence in the race?

Read on!

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December 15, 1925: The New York Americans lose to the Montreal Canadiens, 3-1, in the formal opening of New York's Madison Square Garden, which becomes one of the world's most famous sporting venues. Take a look back!

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7 Enchanting Sleigh Rides in Upstate NY Here are some of the best spots in the Empire State to enjoy a sleigh ride with family and friends. Read on!

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Steve Cohen and Hard Rock International have unveiled renderings of their $8 billion casino project called ‘Metropolitan Park’ in Queens, NYC.

Good morning from Buffalo, New York. 

The epic, titanic, heavyweight battle among the world’s largest gaming companies to obtain a casino license in New York City appears headed to a fairly predictable finish after the New York Gaming Facility Location Board recommended last week that billionaire New York Mets owner Steve Cohen and Hard Rock, Bally’s, and Resorts World all receive licenses to operate in the nation’s largest untapped casino market.

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Four other high-profile plans failed to gain the necessary approval of local advisory boards earlier this year, and MGM abruptly pulled its bid in October, leaving these as the last three proposals standing. The final approval will wait until the end of December, when the New York State Gaming Commission will vote on the Location Board’s recommendations and can, at that point, formally issue the gaming licenses. Governor Kathy Hochul, who is counting on the expected $7 billion in gaming taxes and $5.9 billion in hotel and retail taxes to fund state budget priorities, said in a statement, “From the moment that three downstate casino licenses were authorized in the 2022 State Budget, I have been clear: any approved project must provide real benefits to its community and have sustainable economic plans… The three projects approved today promise to unlock billions in funding for the MTA and create tens of thousands of jobs.” 

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Mets owner Steve Cohen partnered with Hard Rock to propose an $8.1 billion redevelopment project in Flushing, Queens, next to Citi Field that will see a casino, hotel, convention center, entertainment venue, and 25 acres of new park space. Cohen’s project, known as Metropolitan Park, is the most ambitious of the three proposals and will connect the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center to Citi Field and Flushing Bay. Bally Corporation’s $4 billion proposal in the Bronx includes a 250-foot-tall casino spanning three million square feet, as well as a 500-room luxury hotel, dining and entertainment venues, a 2,000-person event center, and meeting spaces. President Donald Trump is a tangential winner in the Bally’s proposal as the former owner of the adjacent golf course. Bally’s bought the lease from the Trump Organization in 2023 with the stipulation that the company would receive a $115 million payment if Bally’s was eventually granted a casino license. Resorts World Casino New York City, owned by Genting, was recommended for a license at Aqueduct racetrack in Jamaica, Queens. The development plan calls for the current racino to be transformed into a $5.6 billion integrated resort featuring a 500,000-square-foot casino. 

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Also in New York City, Mayor Eric Adams and Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani met at Gracie Mansion last week, the first face-to-face meeting between the two since Mamdani’s victory last month. After the meeting, Mamdani expressed his desire to continue a number of the outgoing mayor’s initiatives, saying, “I’ve said time and again that I’ve appreciated the Mayor’s work on City of Yes. I also think that trash containerization has been a good step forward in the way in which we handle garbage across this city, and these are things New Yorkers deserve to have to be built on, as opposed to be discarded.” A spokesman for Adams struck a similar tune, saying in a statement, “Mayor Adams wanted to ensure the mayor-elect knows our team is here to help ensure a smooth transition so that he can hit the ground running on day one, so Mayor Adams took the opportunity to discuss some of the programs and initiatives he has felt have been successful over the last four years, as well as some of the potential issues the incoming mayor may face once in office.”

Conventional wisdom says Mamdani will become the 111th mayor when he is sworn in on January 1st, but how many mayors has New York City really had? 

In Albany, Democratic Senator James Skoufis is introducing a bill that could give New York voters more influence in the Democrats’ 2028 Presidential Primary. Skoufis, who previously ran for Democratic National Committee Chair, is seeking to move New York’s 2028 presidential primary to Super Tuesday, the first time a large batch of states vote on the same day and the point in the race where the frontrunners traditionally separate themselves from the field.

N.Y. Lawmakers' Bill Would Move State's Presidential Primaries to Super Tuesday

The argument for the legislation is New York’s waning importance in the presidential nomination process in recent years. Read more from Spectrum News 1.

In an interview, Skoufis said, “New York has been relegated to only hosting presidential candidates when they want to use us as an ATM. They want to visit our penthouses and corporate boardrooms, and then they jet out the next day, if not that night. We typically are in the back of the calendar because that’s what we’ve always done, and it’s about time we changed that.” Skoufis appears to have the support of his own conference in the Senate, with Deputy Majority Leader Mike Gianaris offering, “It’s kind of a no-brainer. Absent some directive from the DNC not to do it, why would we not want to be more relevant?”

Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) is running for statewide office in New York and, in the meantime, burnishing her independent fighting persona via a highly public fight with Republican Congressional leadership, this time calling out House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) and threatening to scuttle the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Stefanik was pushing for a measure to be included in the NDAA that would require Congress to be notified of counterintelligence probes into candidates for federal office, and when it fell out of negotiations, she was quick to accuse Johnson of being part of the “deep state” for his role in excluding the measure.

Elise Stefanik’s feud with Johnson reflects a House spinning out of control.

“Elise is running for governor and frankly does not give a fuck anymore about playing nice,” said a second House Republican granted anonymity to speak frankly about the dispute. Read more in Politico.

Johnson pushed back, telling reporters, “All of that is false. I don't exactly know why Elise won't just call me. I texted her yesterday. She's upset one of her provisions is not being made, I think, into the NDAA… As soon as I heard this yesterday, I was campaigning in Tennessee, and I wrote her and said, What are you talking about? This hasn't even made it to my level.” Stefanik then accused Johnson of lying and siding with Democrats, posting on Twitter, “Just more lies from the Speaker. And in true form, the Speaker texted me yesterday claiming he ‘knew nothing about it.’ Yeah right. This is his preferred tactic to tell Members when he gets caught torpedoing the Republican agenda.” Stefanik made other derogatory remarks, claimed Johnson would not be reelected as Speaker, and emphasized that President Trump really runs the GOP Conference.

Elise Stefanik gets what she wants after coming for Johnson’s head.

Stefanik managed to secure a legislative win after publicly insulting House Speaker Mike Johnson as a “political novice” and claiming he did not have enough support among Republican lawmakers to remain as leader. Read more from The Independent.

Stefanik’s provision was eventually added to the NDAA, and she did tone down her remarks, but, nevertheless, the episode is emblematic of the larger struggle for Johnson to keep his conference united in the face of electoral storm clouds gathering over the midterms for House Republicans next year, as well as a wave of retirements. In the last two weeks alone, high-profile members Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) and Rep. Troy Nehls (R-Tx.) announced they will not be seeking reelection, joining the over 20 GOP members who have already announced they are bowing out of Congress. The resignations span the ideological spectrum on the right, from ultra-conservative members like Rep. Chip Roy of Texas to moderates like Rep. Don Bacon (Neb.). Many observers see the inaction that has become a hallmark of this Congress, as well as the threat of returning to the minority in 2027, as the impetus for the unusually high number of retirements. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) offered, “They just have to do whatever Trump wants them to do. What fun is that, if you’re an adult? Most of my colleagues are successful people who worked really hard to get here, and then they find out you’re just a rubber stamp for the Speaker, who’s a rubber stamp for the president. I don’t blame them for running for another office or going back home.” Expect more retirements to come.

Are incumbents in trouble during the next election cycle?

Our Jack O'Donnell goes ‘From the Lobby’ with his latest podcast:🎙️Hochul & Medical Aid in Dying 🎙️NYC pay raises? 🎙️Trump’s approval plunge & GOP fireworks!

Tennessee held a Special Election last week to fill the Congressional seat previously held by Rep. Mark Green (R). Republican Matt Van Epps defeated Democrat Aftyn Behn, maintaining the GOP Congressional majority. A win is always a win, but in politics, there are lessons or hints in the margins, especially in special elections. Van Epps’ 9-point win marks a significant shift towards Democrats, given that Trump won the district by 22 points only 13 months ago. That is in keeping with the other House special elections this year, all of which featured strong Democratic performances. In the four previous specials, Democrats had posted similar improvements of 16 to 22 points compared to the 2024 presidential margin in those districts. These consistent gains by an opposition party in special elections have often preceded strong midterm election results. Furthermore, special elections are usually low-turnout affairs where the intense motivation of Democrat’s anti-Trump, professional-class base shows up and exceeds expectations, but in an additional concern for Republicans is that turnout was healthy: about 180,000 votes were cast, far more than in any of the previous congressional special elections this year and almost identical to the number for the 2022 midterm election in Tennessee’s 7th District.

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Behn herself saw hope for Democrats in her loss, describing her performance as a bellwether for races around the country, saying, “It portends what will happen next year, when you have Republicans that are in more competitive seats, struggling with candidates that look a lot like me. And for me, that’s a really exciting moment.” Speaker Johnson traveled to Tennessee in the final days of the race to campaign for Van Epps, a former helicopter pilot, and Trump called into a tele-rally to offer his support for the GOP nominee. The House GOP will have a 220-213 majority after Van Epps is sworn in, but Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s looming departure, as well as special elections to come early next year in New Jersey and Texas, will likely result in Democratic gains. 

That said, there were warning signs for Democrats in Tennessee, as well. Coming within a 9-point margin in such a Trump District is something that will—and should—encourage Democrats. However, primaries matter, and Democrats nominated the furthest-left candidate and paid a price for it. Behn won a crowded and closely divided Democratic primary with only a plurality of the vote. She has been a vocal and unapologetic leftist for much of her public life—so much so that other Democrats call her “the AOC of Tennessee.” Behn’s strong positions and unflinching rhetoric were the subject of significant attention and headlined the GOP campaign against her. A more moderate candidate likely would have made it even closer. That said, it is increasingly difficult for those types of candidates to make it through Democratic primaries.

Farewell to a quiet giant. 84-year-old Steve Cropper, the man behind some of America’s most soulful music, has died. Cropper’s unmistakable guitar work on songs like “Green Onions,” “In the Midnight Hour,” and “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” helped define the sound of artists like Otis Redding, Wilson Pickett, and Booker T. & The M.G.’s. He never chased the spotlight; he simply made every song deeper, warmer, and impossible to forget.

Finally, farmers are finding creative ways to make ends meet in today’s precarious agricultural economy.  One unexpected addition to their business model? Cow cuddling. Read on!

© Jessica May Hoffman

-Jack O’Donnell

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Jack is back with Governor Hochul’s bill showdown and more: 🎙️Hochul’s take on the Medical Aid in Dying Act 🎙️Mamdani’s first big decision 🎙️Electoral threats for incumbents 🎙️Republican infighting in DC

OD&A’s Diane Ong, Elijah’s mother Dina Hawthorne, Gary Riddle of Kaléo, Elijah’s father Thomas Silvera, OD&A’s Kara Hughes

Protecting Kids Citywide: NYC Passes Bill to Ensure Epinephrine in Every School and Daycare

OD&A was proud to partner with our client, Kaléo, the The Elijah-Alavi Foundation, and NYC Councilwoman Julie Menin to pass legislation in the NYC Council requiring schools and childcare programs citywide to keep epinephrine devices (EpiPens) on hand.

This progress is a testament to the extraordinary strength of Thomas Silvera and Dina Hawthorne, who turned unimaginable loss into purpose. They fought for this bill in loving memory of their son, 3-year-old Elijah-Alavi, whose life was tragically cut short after an allergic reaction at his NYC childcare facility.

Their courage ensures other children will now be safer. Read the news release here. Watch a PIX11 news report on the bill’s passage here.

OD&A on LinkedIn: Thank You to NYC Councilwoman Julie Menin, the Elijah-Alavi Foundation Inc., and Kaléo

Watch the video as Councilwoman Menin and Elijah's parents talk about the significance of the bill passed in NYC.

OD&A on LinkedIn: A Great Day at the American Museum of Natural History! 👏 

The amazing staff welcomed Assemblyman Michael Benedetto for a hands-on look at the labs & classrooms that make AMNH a global leader in science education. A former teacher, Benedetto was right at home exploring the programs sparking curiosity in the next generation. A huge thanks to all for an inspiring visit and for championing science education across New York!✨

Should NY make choosing natural gas more expensive by ending free natural gas hookups if they are within 100 feet of an existing line?

Read more!

December 8, 1980: In a tragic turn of events, an obsessed fan fatally shoots former Beatle, John Lennon. The 40-year-old artist was entering his luxury Manhattan apartment building when Mark David Chapman shot him four times at close range. Take a look back here.

John Lennon moved to New York City in 1971, where he lived with wife Yoko Ono and son Sean. © Bob Gruen Read more on his final days here.

After Chapman killed the Beatle, he was asked, ”Do you know what you’ve done?” Chapman replied, ”I just shot John Lennon.” The statement inspired a song by the group, The Cranberries.

The 50 Best Clothing Stores in America The NY Times listed distinctive and inspirational stores, mostly independent small businesses, including O’Connell’s Clothing in Buffalo. Read on!

Monday Morning Memo has won two PRSA Excalibur Awards.

OD&A is ranked #7 among WNY’s fastest growing companies for 2025.

CSNY names OD&A a 2025 Top Place to Work!

Good morning from Buffalo, New York. 

Let us be among the first to welcome Michael Cashman (D) to the state Assembly. The new member representing the North Country’s 115th Assembly District has officially been sworn into office following his impressive Special Election victory.

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Cashman has been named to the Agriculture Committee, the Tourism, Parks, and Sports Development Committee, and the Veterans’ Affairs Committee. The new member offered a statement, “These committees represent the core of who we are as a region. The 115th is powered by hardworking farm families, supported by a vibrant tourism and outdoor recreation economy, and deeply shaped by our veterans and military community. I’m honored to bring our district’s voice to each of these tables.” Cashman served as Plattsburgh Town Supervisor for nearly a decade, becoming the youngest town supervisor in history upon his election in 2015. Cashman is an alumnus of SUNY Plattsburgh and currently serves on the University Council, where he has been an advocate for first-generation and low-income students.  

As the calendar turns to December, Governor Kathy Hochul has a month to act on over 200 bills—legislation that has been passed by the Legislature but not yet officially transmitted to the Executive—ahead of the December 31st deadline to do so.

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One bill receiving plenty of attention, especially from the tech world, is the Responsible Artificial Intelligence Safety and Education (the RAISE) Act. The legislation, sponsored by Senator Andrew Gounardes and Assemblymember Alex Bores, seeks to require guardrails for the companies developing “frontier models,” the large-scale artificial intelligence models being developed by the likes of Meta, Anthropic, and OpenAI. If signed, large developers would be responsible for filing safety and security protocols with the State for those “frontier models.” They would also have to report safety incidents that could lead to increased risks of critical harms to New Yorkers, which the bill defines as 100 deaths or $1 billion in damage. Hochul has indicated she needs to walk a fine line with AI regulation, saying in an interview, “I have to protect New Yorkers as well as our businesses, but let the tech industry know this is the place you want to be.” There is plenty of evidence that the public is seeing past the tech industry’s multimillion dollar public relations campaign: polling shows the measure is quite popular, especially among sought-after independent voters.

N.Y. Legislature Clears AG-Backed Consumer Protection Bill

More from Spectrum News 1.

Hochul is also considering the FAIR Business Practices Act, legislation that would expand the state Attorney General’s consumer protection powers. The bill is a major priority of New York Attorney General Tish James, largely in response to the call from former Federal Trade Commission Chair Lina Khan, now on the Mamdani transition team, for states to strengthen their consumer protection laws in anticipation of federal regulatory rollbacks by the Trump administration. The bill would add “unfair” and “abusive” acts to the existing ban on “deceptive” practices under consumer protection laws; however, amendments before final passage removed the private right of action and restricted enforcement power to the Attorney General’s office. The NYS Business Council is leading the opposition. 

The Gaming Facility Location Board will vote today on who should get state gaming licenses. Millions have been spent, but only three applicants remain. More to come.

State Board Set to Make Casino Decision on Monday

After a years long competition, the cards are on the table and the state board will issue its decision today. More from Spectrum News NY1.

An interesting development as Democrats search for a message that resonates and is anything beyond “we’re not Trump!” It’s worth checking out here.

Advocates for the Medical Aid in Dying Act are hoping Hochul signs the measure after it passed both Chambers of the Legislature for the first time this year.

Kristen Curran, Director of Government Relations for the New York State Catholic Conference, said, “It’s not for a lack of understanding of where the other side is coming from, we know how difficult it is, and we know these people are desperate sometimes for pain relief. I think there is so much we can do to fix that. New York is notoriously and extremely lagging in uptake of hospice and palliative care.” 

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Lawmakers and advocates continue to keep the pressure on Hochul to sign a package of prison reform bills that were introduced in response to the fatal beatings of two inmates, Robert Brooks and Messiah Nantwi, earlier this year. The omnibus reform package would increase camera coverage in prisons, expand the state Commission on Correction, and empower the Attorney General to investigate and prosecute corrections officers, if necessary. Hochul’s office is reportedly seeking amendments to the current package in response to concerns from the Department of Corrections & Community Supervision, but the bill’s sponsors remain hopeful they can reach a compromise everyone can get behind. Assembly sponsor Erik Dilan offered, “The negotiations are still fluid, and I want them to continue behind closed doors. Obviously, we stand by the bill that we passed on the floor...We're just trying to get on the same page.”

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On the environmental side, Hochul will have to decide what to do with a bill that would end the requirement for utilities to install new natural gas hookups at no cost to the property owner if the hookups are within 100 feet of an existing line. The bill is a watered-down version of a larger proposal, the HEAT Act, that would have further regulated natural gas infrastructure, but advocates are still hopeful that the bill can serve as a springboard for additional environmental regulation. Much to the disappointment of environmental advocates, Hochul has recently delayed the implementation of the state’s all-electric buildings mandate and given the green light to a new natural gas pipeline as part of her “all of the above” energy approach. 

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In New York City, Council Member Julie Menin announced that she has secured enough votes from her colleagues to become the next City Council Speaker, releasing a list of 35 names that puts her well past the 26-vote threshold required among the 51 members. In a statement, Menin said, “With this broad five-borough coalition, we stand ready to partner with Mayor-elect Mamdani’s administration and deliver on a shared agenda that makes New York more affordable through universal childcare, lowers rent and healthcare costs and ensures that families across the city can do more than just get by.” Menin declined to publicly endorse Mamdani in the Democratic Primary or the General Election, citing her candidacy for Speaker, but the two Democrats both have strong support from organized labor, specifically support from the Hotel and Gaming Trades Council and 32BJ. Menin first became involved in politics as chair of the Lower Manhattan Community Board after 9/11 and held numerous roles in former Mayor Bill de Blasio’s administration, including as head of the Department of Consumer Affairs and the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment. Of course, there is a long way from a press conference to an actual vote, but this, too, looks to be done.

'Shared Agenda of Affordability': Mamdani Nods to Councilmember Menin as Next Speaker

Read more in Gothamist.

A sad good-bye to Viola Fletcher, the oldest and one of the most well-known survivors of the Tulsa Race Massacre—a truly terrible period in our history—who passed away last week at 111-years-old. Fletcher played a major role in keeping this story alive and helping ensure a national reckoning.   

Farewell to San Diego’s “Queen of the Zoo”… Gramma, the Galápagos tortoise who’s been around since the days of Chester Arthur has died at 141-years-old. Read on!

San Diego Zoo / via Facebook

Finally… A record-setting find may have some people going back through their old comic books.  Check it out!

(AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

-Jack O’Donnell

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ICYMI, Jack’s most played podcasts “From the Lobby:” 🎙️NY Gov. Race, State Tax Talk 🎙️Democrats Divided, Shutdown Fallout 🎙️Pelosi's Legacy, Election Takeaways

Governor Hochul Announces $50 Million Investment to Create New Biofabrication Research Center at University at Buffalo

The money will be used to help discover new medicines and cures to save lives. Read on!

OD&A’s Marc Cohen on LinkedIn: Thank you Rochester Gas & Electric…

Thank you Rochester Gas & Electric’s Adrian Hale and Dave Dick for touring Rochester Councilman Mitch Gruber, PhD and Cook Properties CEO Jeffrey Cook through the Station 5 Hydro Dam. Our region is powered by people who show up every day to keep critical infrastructure running. Read on!

OD&A at the 2025 Boys & Girls Clubs of Rochester NY Lifetime Achievement Award Gala

The 2025 Boys & Girls Clubs of Rochester NY Lifetime Achievement Award Gala was a reminder of what makes this community so special: people who quietly give so much of themselves so that kids have every chance to feel safe, supported, and seen. Congratulations to our dear friend Gail Morelle and her partners on the incredibly well-earned honor! Read on!

Pass the gravy… and the talking points? How do you handle politics at Thanksgiving dinner?

Check it out!

December 1, 1824: The House of Representatives begins discussions to decide the outcome of the presidential election deadlock between John Quincy Adams and Andrew Jackson. Neither candidate had won a majority of the electoral vote. Read more about the vote and the scandal that ensued!

Adams/Jackson Britannica

The World’s 20 Most Spectacular Railway Stations There’s nothing like a grand railway station to fire the imagination and stoke the spirit of adventure. Check out the list!

Monday Morning Memo has won two PRSA Excalibur Awards.

OD&A is ranked #7 among WNY’s fastest growing companies for 2025.

CSNY names OD&A a 2025 Top Place to Work!

20 Minutes at Heute

Good morning from New York City, where tomorrow is Evacuation Day.

On November 25, 1783, George Washington and his patriot army marched down Broadway as the last of the Redcoats, British soldiers who had occupied the city for seven years, sailed away. Thousands of Loyalist civilians, long protected by the British, had jammed East River wharves desperately seeking to escape. The first Evacuation Day celebrations lasted ten days.

General Washington’s Triumphal Procession Through NYC

Back to today, much is being made about Governor Kathy Hochul’s comments last week on taxes. “When it comes to the taxes question, which I know is the burning question on all your minds, I have to keep an eye on what is happening in Washington,” she told reporters, blaming Washington “uncertainty” for putting a potential corporate tax hike on the table. That federal uncertainty, clearly not favorable to New York State, is matched by pressure from New York City, where Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani is entering office with plenty of promises, including big ideas and an even bigger price tag.

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Hochul has been firm in her opposition to a personal income tax hike on wealthy New Yorkers—a measure Mamdani supports—but is opening the door to a corporate tax hike, all while her office touts higher-than-expected revenue.

“So I can stand here today and say we can do quite a few things without any source of additional revenue based on the revenue coming in,” Hochul said. “But I don’t know what Washington is going to do. Are they going to jam us up for another $3 billion in Medicaid costs? This is the uncertainty that makes it challenging to do what we’re doing.”

Incoming NYC Business Group Head Torches Mamdani’s Proposed Corporate Tax Hike: ‘Absolute Suicide’

Read more in The New York Post.

Much more to come on this, but it's already generating flak from business groups. Incoming Partnership for New York City head Steve Fulop, in a post on X, declared raising the corporate tax rate “absolute suicide” for New York City, emphasizing that with an already existing city business tax, combined with a higher state rate, would drive taxes far higher than those imposed on New Jersey businesses: “I can’t think of an easier narrative to torch supporters of this idea (both politically and governmentally),” Fulop said. “Even if [they] believe companies won’t move, what remains 100% indisputable is they certainly won’t create a single new job in NYC.”  Fulop knows all about New Jersey taxes as he currently serves as the Mayor of Jersey City.

Hochul may be moving in Mamdani’s direction on free buses, as well.

In the helter skelter world of relationships today (see Zohran Mamdani and Donald Trump—more on that below), Hochul is also getting plaudits from the Wall Street Journal Editorial Board.

With the 2025 Elections behind us, welcome to the 2026 Elections!

First, good luck to our friend Assembly Member Stacey Pheffer Amato, who announced she will not be running again in 2026. The Chair of the New York State Governmental Employee Committee offered: “I have had the joy of meeting with and delivering for thousands of our neighbors when they need help. But after 10 years in this position, it is time to move on and serve my community in other capacities.” This Rockaway, Queens district will be a competitive seat in the General Election.

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Pheffer Amato joins her colleague Deborah Glick in leaving public service, while, by my count, at least five other members of the Assembly—MOA Rivera, Bores, Lasher, Simone, and González-Rojas—are leaving to run for seats in Congress and the state Senate. Expect a couple more of these—retirements and new campaigns—over the next couple of months, while rumors abound that various members of the state Legislature may soon join the Mamdani administration. 

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Speaking of competitive races, Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas got a major boost in her campaign last week with two major Congressional endorsements: “I’m deeply honored to have the support of two trailblazing Latinas—Congresswomen Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Nydia Velázquez—who have long been champions for working families and a more just and equitable Queens,” González-Rojas said in a statement.

“We need a fighter in Albany who won’t flinch when it comes to standing up for New Yorkers, and for the future of Queens,” Ocasio-Cortez said. “I’m proud to endorse JGR for State Senate because Queens deserves someone who will always show up and fight for us.”

Ocasio-Cortez and Velázquez are only the latest to support JGR; she already has endorsements from City Comptroller Brad Lander, Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards.

This seat is currently held by Jessica Ramos, fresh off an unsuccessful mayoral campaign, but one who should not be counted out. We will be watching this race.

"Mamdani revolution" comes for House Democrats: "People are pissed."

House Democrats are facing a surge of progressive primary challenges inspired by New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani. Read more in Axios.

Even more lively will be some interparty Congressional clashes for Democrats in New York City, with several marquee races likely to draw national attention. In NY-12, a crowded Democratic field includes Jack Schlossberg, grandson of President John F. Kennedy, making a high-profile bid for the Manhattan-based seat currently held by Jerry Nadler.

Jack Schlossberg Congress Run Slammed by Democrats: ‘Does He Even Know What He Stands For?’

Read more in The New York Post.

Schlossberg’s announcement certainly garnered clicks, but three current elected officials have had more impressive launches: Assembly Member Micah Lasher, a former aide to Mayor Mike Bloomberg and Governor Kathy Hochul is seen by many to have the inside track to Nadler’s endorsement, sure to be influential; Council Member Erik Bottcher has an impressive record in the NYC Council, is a leader in the LGBTQ community, and kicked off with an impressive fundraising haul; Assembly Member Alex Bores may have had the most impressive launch of them all. The young Assembly Member raised a remarkable $1.2 million in the first 24 hours after he announced. Having earned a national reputation for his leadership on tech issues and as the sponsor of the groundbreaking AI safety RAISE Act, Bores’s experience and leadership may fit the moment, especially for Democrats dismayed by President Donald Trump’s relationships with the big tech establishment.

NY-10 is also going to be a battle as New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, he of Mamdani bromance and a second place NYC Mayoral Primary finish, and Alexa Avilés, a nonprofit executive already endorsed by the DSA, position themselves against incumbent Dan Goldman, the wealthy Levi Strauss heir and staunch supporter of Israel.

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Equally interesting is City Councilmember Chi Ossé’s bold challenge to House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries in Brooklyn’s NY-8. This race has the Left in a tizzy, as many, including Mamdani and AOC, have urged DSA not to endorse Ossé’s campaign, saying it is not the time. Others are leery of the Council Member’s more recent endorsement of DSA principles, but enthusiastic about this being the time and every place being the place.

DSA Civil War Brewing as Zohran Mamdani Opposes Member’s Bid to Topple Hakeem Jeffries

Read more in The New York Post.

Over in NY-15, perennial candidate Michael Blake is mounting a campaign against Representative Ritchie Torres in the Bronx. Blake had moved on from his own previous support of Israel to be in a position to challenge Torres because of his support of Israel.

In NY-6 in Queens, Grace Meng is facing a lively primary challenge from Chuck Park, a former diplomat and government worker. 

Queens Government Worker to Challenge Meng

A former diplomat and city government worker from Queens launched a bid to unseat Rep. Grace Meng from Congress, marking only the second time Meng has had a primary challenger in the past decade. Read more in the Queens Daily Eagle.

Another interesting race is NY-13, where the Justice Democrats, a major part of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s 2018 rise, are backing Darializa Avila Chevalier’s bid to unseat Representative Adriano Espaillat. Again, support for Israel is a hot point as Avila helped lead protests against the Israel-Hamas war at Columbia University. She is a Ph.D. student and an investigator in a public defender's office in Harlem. The well-respected Espaillat is the first Dominican American to serve in Congress and a leading Latino voice in the Democratic Party. 

Another major race is in NY-7, across Queens and Brooklyn, where Representative Nydia M. Velázquez, a Democratic trailblazer who was the first Puerto Rican woman elected to Congress, announced she will not seek re-election in 2026 at the completion of her 16th term. Velázquez, 72, cited the calls for generational change in her party as a reason to retire.

Race for NY City Council Speaker Takes Shape

Five candidates have thrown their names in the ring. Read more from Spectrum News NY 1.

Of course, not all the 2025 business is quite done. The behind-the-scenes race for New York City Council Speaker remains open for the taking after intense politicking at Somos and, as such, is spilling into public view.

Council Members Julie Menin, Crystal Hudson, Amanda Farías, Chris Marte, and Selvena Brooks-Powers appeared together for the first time at an Association for a Better New York forum and at one sponsored by Common Cause NY.

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While full of transparency, much of this decision-making—and wheeling and dealing—happens behind closed doors. Crystal Hudson and Julie Menin are widely considered favorites.

Whither Mamdani? The mayor-elect is playing it cool: “I'm looking forward to working with the council and the speaker to fulfill the agenda that we ran on.”  Other power brokers are not. Reps. Nydia Velázquez and Yvette Clarke endorsed Hudson Monday night, while Rep. Greg Meeks made clear last week he’s backing Menin.

Why Donald Trump Seems Taken With Zohran Mamdani

The President likes winners. Read more at The Atlantic.

Mamdani also made news, confirming to reporters that his transition team reached out to President Donald Trump for a meeting, making clear that the ask is to discuss food insecurity rather than in response to Trump’s threats to slash federal aid to the Big Apple and send in the National Guard.

Mamdani said, “My team reached out to the White House to fulfill a commitment I made to New Yorkers over the course of this campaign, a commitment that showed a willingness to meet with anyone and everyone, so long as it was to the benefit of the eight and a half million people that call the city their home, and so long as it would help to address the affordability crisis that is pushing so many of them out of this city.”

Hochul approved, telling reporters that an “open conversation could lead to a positive outcome. The potential is certainly there.” Hochul has experience, having met with Trump twice in the Oval Office and spoken by phone more often to secure wins on energy policy and congestion pricing. Her advice to Mamdani? Hochul said, “The president at the heart of it is a New Yorker, and that’s something I’ve used as the foundation of my conversations.”

Of course, the proof, as they say, is in the pudding, but anyone who watched the press conference can attest that their meeting could hardly have gone better. The headlines captured the shock: The New York Post blared, “Mamdani, Trump’s expected slugfest turns into a lovefest as president says socialist will make NYC greater than ever before”.

Mamdani, Trump’s expected slugfest turns into a lovefest as president says socialist will make NYC ‘greater than ever before’

Read more at The New York Post.

Politico went with “Trump, Mamdani make love — not war”; while The New York Times offered the more sedated “For an Afternoon, They Were Just 2 Guys From Queens.” The press conference itself was a little strange and entirely surreal. At one point, a reporter pressed Mamdani on whether he truly believed the President was “a fascist.” Before he could answer, Trump jumped in to defuse the moment: “That’s OK, you can just say, ‘Yes,’” he said, waving it off, visibly amused. “It’s easier. It’s easier than explaining it.” Then, laughing good-naturedly, he reached over and patted Mamdani’s arm. “I don’t mind.” “OK, all right,” Mamdani replied with a grin.

How long will it last? Stay tuned.

Another challenge worth watching is how Mamdani handles Albany’s pressure groups and entrenched interests, which may prove harder to move than a volatile politician known to like populists and love winners. Jon Campbell has a great piece on this.

Zohran Mamdani cut his teeth in Albany. Will it pay off once he’s NYC’s mayor?

The mayor-elect needs state policymakers to support his agenda if it has any chance of becoming reality. Read more at Gothamist.

Furthermore, Mamdani announced he is retaining Jessica Tisch as Police Commissioner. He had said as much during the campaign, but in addition to the plaudits and respect she has earned during her time in government, this is also a powerful symbol to New York City’s power players that he will work with them and prioritize safety. It is also another victory for Hochul, who had recommended the move to Mamdani before endorsing him during the campaign, and one applauded by Trump who offered praise for Tisch.

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Strategists Break Down the Political News of the Week

Jack O’Donnell of O’Donnell & Associates and David Catalfamo of Capital Public Strategies chat the political week that was. Watch here!

Finally, could it be? New Yorkers have spoken, and the best bagel isn’t even from New York. The unexpected hit to the city’s carb-powered reputation came courtesy of judges at the 2025 BagelFest in Queens. Read on!

@starshipbagel/Instagram

-Jack O’Donnell

Listen on your favorite platform!

Jack’s take on the NY governor’s race, possible tax hikes, and more: 🎙️Do early poll numbers matter? 🎙️How Hochul’s reelection campaign maintains momentum 🎙️Will Albany bail out Buffalo? 🎙️Mamdani-Trump sit-down

Proud moment!

We’re excited to announce that our Kara Hughes, Senior Adviser and Head of NYC Practice, has been named to City & State NY’s 2025 Women Power 100.

As women continue to drive progress in New York politics and policy, this list recognizes the standouts, and Kara is one of them.

City & State NY writes: Kara Hughes serves as the head of government relations firm O’Donnell & Associates’ New York City practice and a senior adviser for the statewide firm. She leads strategy and advocacy in the city across complex legislative and regulatory issues, such as advising on congestion pricing. This year, the firm helped secure millions of dollars in funding for the University at Buffalo to host the new Empire AI initiative. Hughes’ adeptness at maneuvering law and policy is a result of her time in City Hall as acting director of legislative affairs in the de Blasio administration and as an aide on Capitol Hill.

Kara has also been recognized this year in City & State NY’s Who’s Who in Government Relations and as a Trailblazer in Economic Development.

Connect with Kara!

$5M Gift to Niagara University a Game Changer for Pre-Law Program

The late George Wiegers, who became a pioneer in finance, has left his most profound mark on his alma mater, Niagara University, with a game-changing $5 million gift to Niagara’s pre-law program. Read more in The Buffalo News.

Do you support the eight Senate Democrats who broke ranks with their party by voting for the GOP plan to end the shutdown?

Check out more Thanksgiving turkeys pardoned by presidents here!

November 24, 1947: The House of Representatives votes to approve contempt citations against 10 Hollywood writers, producers, and directors for refusing to answer questions about possible communist affiliations. The “Hollywood Ten," as the men were known, were sentenced to one year in jail. Look back here!

“The Hollywood Ten" stand with their attorneys outside District Court in Washington, D.C. before arraignment.