GARDEN CITY – The New York Republican Party has a new minority leader.
State Representative Ed La (R-Nassau) was chosen unanimously during a vote by the Assembly Republican Conference on Monday, following former leader Will Barclay’s (R-Oswego) resignation announcement and his decision not to run for re-election.
Rahr, from Garden City South in Nassau County, was a prominent member of the Assembly Ways and Means Committee, where he was instrumental in shaping the state’s budget.
“Having been part of this conference for nearly 16 years, I truly appreciate the dedication my colleagues exhibit every day,” Rahr noted in his statement.
“I’m eager to collaborate with everyone as we strive for responsible governance, affordability, public safety, and an improved New York for all residents and visitors,” he continued.
In his position on the Ways and Means Committee, Rahr faced many challenging budget hearings, often not holding back when it came to criticizing state officials. It’s worth mentioning that just last week, he pressed MTA Chairman Jano Lieber for details regarding last year’s congestion pricing, but the transit leader seemed caught off guard.
Berkeley had been at the helm of the Republican Party since 2020 and indicated last week that he wouldn’t pursue re-election, opting instead for a smooth transition.
Democratic Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, from the Bronx, typically reserved in his compliments about Republican leadership, surprisingly had kind words for Rahr during the party’s nominating convention in Syracuse last Friday.
“I’m genuinely sad to see Will Barclay retire,” Heastie expressed.
“I regard Will as a close friend, but life necessitates personal choices, and I fully support his decision to move on,” Heastie added, which felt heartfelt amidst the political landscape.
Barclay’s leadership began in the early hours of New Year’s Day 2020, taking over after then-leader Brian Kolb (R-Monroe) had a public incident involving a drunk driving mishap.
