GARDEN CITY
A potential Republican candidate for lieutenant governor expressed his willingness to pursue statewide office following his extensive career in law enforcement.
Madison County Sheriff Todd Hood was introduced by Republican gubernatorial hopeful Bruce Blakeman during an interview on WABC Radio. Blakeman remarked that Hood’s background in law enforcement has equipped him for a significant political role.
“Law enforcement is somewhat akin to politics,” Hood mentioned to host Sid Rosenberg. “If we lack the support from the people, we essentially have nothing.”
Having been elected as Madison County Sheriff in 2018, Hood has dedicated over 22 years to law enforcement, starting with the Syracuse Police Department before serving as an investigator for the Onondaga District Attorney’s Office.
“It’s really similar to politics; if people trust you, they’ll collaborate with you and you’ll be successful,” he noted.
“I’m really looking forward to this opportunity,” he added.
Blakeman highlighted that Hood, the only upstate lawmaker nominated by the statewide Republican party, would support his initiatives aimed at fostering economic development throughout the state.
“I have a plan to enrich people by increasing their earnings. The opposition is proposing free bus rides and child care. But really, who needs free child care? It’s for those without jobs,” Blakeman contended.
Hood, who is a father of three and a grandfather of two, remarked on the issue of people leaving the northern region, making it a deeply personal concern for him.
“I have a daughter who moved to another state. If we can’t reduce taxes and encourage people to remain here, we’re facing serious problems.”
Fulton County Sheriff Michael Giardino indicated that Hood had felt unwell and subsequently resigned, while it was confirmed that Blakeman was officially selected on Monday after an earlier nomination.
Hood made his first public appearance with Blakeman at the state nominating convention, though he did not engage with reporters at that time.
