On Wednesday, New York State court officers threw their support behind Republican Bruce Blakeman for governor, breaking a two-decade trend of not endorsing candidates for this office.
The Supreme Court Officers and Court Officers associations decided to back Blakeman, stating he prioritizes public safety, unlike the current governor, Kathy Hochul, and the Democratic leadership, who they claim have weakened their ranks and put them at risk.
“This election transcends politics; it’s fundamentally about public safety and upholding the law,” Patrick Cullen, president of the New York State Supreme Court Officers Association, expressed during a press conference outside the Manhattan Criminal Court.
Cullen emphasized, “Bruce Blakeman has consistently centered public safety in his public service. His experience as Nassau County executive and his support for law enforcement demonstrate the values court officers want reflected at the state level.”
Sgt. Thomas Hickey, leading the state Court Officers Association, mentioned that they couldn’t recall the last time they openly endorsed a governor, noting that it hasn’t happened in at least 20 years. “And none of us can remember backing a Republican,” he added.
The union leaders highlighted the challenges they face under Hochul’s administration, pointing to staffing shortages, outdated equipment, and issues stemming from bail reform laws that let more violent offenders back into the courthouse environment.
Hickey commented, “The offenders entering the courthouse show little respect for law and order. It’s become evident there are no repercussions for disruptive behavior, leading them to reoffend repeatedly in the courthouse.”
He also mentioned concerns over outdated metal detectors at the courthouse entrances, which are not effective in detecting certain types of weapons. “We’re facing a scenario where fewer court officers are on duty due to staffing issues, while people are coming in with weapons that go unnoticed,” he said.
As the election approaches, Blakeman, who is currently lagging behind Hochul in the polls, has repeatedly focused on the need for public safety. He has criticized the Democratic leadership in Albany and New York City for not adequately funding police, allowing violent criminals to evade justice due to permissive bail laws, and for lacking support for law enforcement in general.
Blakeman voiced his dissatisfaction with Hochul’s priorities, remarking, “Kathy Hochul’s agenda is fundamentally flawed. This year, we will have allocated $10 billion for illegal migrants claiming asylum, who receive free housing, food, transportation, cell phones, and healthcare.”
He continued, “Those funds should be directed toward law enforcement, our courts, infrastructure, schools, and hospitals rather than this.”
Collectively, the two unions represent around 4,000 active and retired members, tasked with maintaining order and peace within courtrooms across the state.
