Assemblyman: Hochul's State Of State 'Lacked Urgency And Focus'

MERRICK, NY — One local lawmaker is reacting to Gov. Kathy Hochul's first State of the State address.

Hochul outlined plans to rebuild healthcare and work on public safety, while putting much of her focus on the coronavirus.

However, Assemblyman Dave McDonough (R-Merrick) said Hochul "lacked urgency, focus and spirit to address some of the pressing issues that New Yorkers actually care about."

McDonough criticized the governor for not taking steps to make "everyday living more affordable in the face of rising consumer costs and inflation."

The governor did call for affordable childcare for 100,000 additional middle-class families.

The state lawmaker called the administration's communication "abysmal" with school districts.

"It’s hurt and taken away what should be the prime focus: educating our children in the classroom," McDonough said. "I’m hopeful Gov. Hochul will work with the state Legislature in a meaningful and bipartisan way to focus on the pressing challenges New Yorkers are facing right now."