Monday Morning Brief November 9, 2026

Nov 9

Written by Michael Avella

Member Spotlight

Emily Gallagher

Assemblymember Emily Gallagher joins us to discuss her district, the priorities she has been championing for her constituents, and her passion for advocacy and public service. She currently chairs the Commission on Solid Waste Management and serves on committees including Election Law, Corrections, Transportation, and Consumer Affairs & Protection.

What district do you represent?
I represent the 50th Assembly District, which includes Greenpoint and the north and south sides of Williamsburg in Brooklyn.

If I were visiting your district, what are some landmarks you would recommend?
First of all, we have one of the most beautiful waterfronts in the world, looking across the East River toward Manhattan.

We also have some very interesting landmarks. Newtown Creek, for example, is one of the most polluted waterways in the country and is a federal superfund site. It was once known as the “Little Mississippi of the North” because so much oil refining, manufacturing, and industrial development took place along it. Today, we’re doing a lot of innovative and environmentally sustainable work to clean it up. Greenpoint is really a fascinating place for people who care about the environment because we have such a complicated ecosystem that the community is dedicated to healing. We also have the digester eggs at the Newtown Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant, which use anaerobic digestion and are these enormous silver structures that are both visually interesting and technologically innovative.

Another one of my favorite buildings is the Astral Building. It was built by Astral Oil Works in the late 1800s as housing for workers. At a time when the labor movement was growing stronger, employers understood that they needed to provide better conditions for workers. The building included amenities like a daycare, school, laundry facilities, and a workers’ café. I think it’s a great example of how organizing can really deliver for working people.

And of course, in Williamsburg, we have the Williamsburg Bridge and countless places people may recognize from movies and television because we’re one of the most frequently filmed areas in New York City.

What was your profession before being elected to the Assembly?
I had a number of different jobs over the 20 years before I was elected, but most of my work centered around nonprofit education. I was a community liaison and educator at the Lower East Side Tenement Museum. Later, I ran national community affairs for Hostelling International, a youth travel organization focused on promoting world peace and cultural exchange through affordable and accessible travel. That work allowed me to meet some incredible people and create really interesting programs. One of my favorites was a cultural exchange between students from Bushwick and students from Copenhagen. They spent a weekend together talking about what it was like to be teenagers in their respective communities—and I think there may even have been a rap battle. If I remember correctly, the student from Copenhagen won. I really enjoyed that work, but I also felt there was important legislative work that needed to be done toward those same goals, making the world more livable and more accepting of differences.

What inspired you to run for office?
Beginning when I was about 24, I spent most of my free time doing community organizing in Greenpoint and Williamsburg. I worked on tenants’ rights, environmental justice, and trying to secure promises that had been made to the community during the 2005 rezoning—many of which still haven’t been completely delivered.

There were several issues where I didn’t feel the response had the kind of urgency or enthusiasm I wanted to see. My predecessor had also been in office for a very long time, and I felt that there was a different kind of community developing here that might appreciate some new representation. So, I thought I’d give it a try.

What are some of your biggest priorities in the Assembly?
One of my biggest priorities is holding the oil and gas industries accountable for the climate crisis and building legislation that helps us survive what’s coming next. I’m very concerned that we’re not prepared for the next phase of the climate crisis, and I believe we need to hold white-collar actors more accountable for the harm they cause.

Housing is another major priority. I want to make sure there is affordable, safe, beautiful housing for people at every income level and for every type and size of family. I carry the Social Housing Development Authority bill, which is modeled after successful housing programs used in other parts of the world that we don’t currently have here.

Income inequality and workers’ rights are also extremely important to me, as is creating safer, more diverse streets for pedestrians, cyclists, and other forms of transportation. I think we need to think bigger than the car-centered transportation system we’ve settled into over the last century.

Are there any local issues that are particularly important in your district?
Absolutely. We have multiple superfund sites in the district. I think it’s deeply unjust that one of the ways communities like ours have historically received resources to clean up environmental contamination is by opening the door to development and gentrification. Residents shouldn’t have to be displaced in order for contaminated land to finally be cleaned up.

I want to find other ways to hold polluters accountable, including companies that have profited from industries contributing to the climate crisis, and make sure they bear responsibility for the damage that’s been done.

But ultimately, we also need to change the underlying systems, so we don’t continue creating this level of pollution and these kinds of public health problems in the future.

There will be a number of new legislators coming into Albany next year. What advice would you give them?
Listen and really get to know your fellow legislators. Understand that it takes time to adjust to the institution that is the State Assembly. It has its own culture, traditions, and ways of doing things, and you’re not going to change an institution overnight. Real change takes collaboration and care.

What advice would you give young people who want to get more involved in politics or civic life?
Don’t discount yourself, your voice, or your priorities. Even small actions matter. Staying hopeful by becoming active matters. Making your voice heard matters. I hear from people of every age, from second graders to people who are 100 years old, and everyone has a place in civic life. I think our society has suffered because, for too long, people were convinced that politicians knew better than they did. We can take some of that power back by using our voices, getting involved, and refusing to give up.

Any final comments?
I want to encourage young people to keep up the good work.
They’ve been showing up in elections, showing up in the streets, and making their voices heard. All of those things matter. They really do change the society we live in, even if that change sometimes takes longer than we want it to. I’m really proud of our generation.

Are you a public official or staffer that would like to be featured in our spotlight? If so, reach out to your favorite D&A team member or contact us at team@dickinsonavella.com to set up an interview!

I will always believe in New York because I know our best days are ahead.

As Governor, I promise that your family and your future are my fight. https://t.co/ETIyIvtx0P
— Kathy Hochul (@KathyHochul) November 4, 2026

Hochul Wins Reelection Alongside Several Democrats Legislative Wins

Amid a nationwide Democratic victory on Tuesday’s Election Day, the New York State Democratic Party also posted significant gains in congressional and state legislative races, reclaiming a two-thirds supermajority in the Senate (and the largest party’s majority since 1846) and potentially expanding its Assembly majority to a record 111 seats.

At the top of the ticket, Hochul secured reelection to a second full term, defeating Republican Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman by approximately 20%. With her reelection, she and her running mate, Lt. Gov-elect Adrienne Adams, made history as the first all-women ticket to win a statewide race in the state. “I hope out there’s a little girl who’s watching (and saying), ‘That could be me one day. Because we have broken down the barriers once and for all,” said Hochul. Notably, Hochul won her first gubernatorial election four years ago by only 6%.

In the Senate, Democrats reclaimed their two-thirds supermajority following victories in several Republican-held districts across Brooklyn, the Hudson Valley and the Capital Region. Additional Democratic pickups remain possible, with Chris Murray leading Republican incumbent Anthony Palumbo and Lisa Vider maintaining a lead over Republican incumbent Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick on Long Island. However, in the Capital Region, Republican incumbent Jake Ashby held a lead of less than 100 votes over Democrat Devin Lander as of Friday night, with a potential manual recount expected.

Democrats also appeared positioned to expand their Assembly majority up to 111 seats, with several Democrat candidates appearing to defeat and flip several Republican districts, including Chloe Pierce over incumbent Scott Bendett in the Capital Region, Ian Phillips over incumbent John Lemondes in Central New York, and Ryan Taughrin over incumbent Patrick Chludzinski in Western New York. However, GOP candidate Michael Gentile declared victory in the open race to succeed outgoing Democrat Marianne Buttenschon.

After several Democrat victories, many Democrat legislative leaders reiterated their commitment to addressing affordability. “This proves that New Yorkers believe we are on the right track -- investing in affordable, accessible childcare, housing and healthcare, as well as our schools and higher education systems, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to climb the ladder of success,” Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie said in a statement. Similarly, Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins pointed to President Trump’s policies for Democrats’ success. “At a time when Donald Trump’s agenda threatens our fundamental rights and economic security, tonight’s results reinforce the importance of standing up for working families and protecting the values we share,” said Stewart-Cousins.

Darren McGee/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul

EXECUTIVE UPDATES

At the annual SOMOS conference in Puerto Rico earlier this week, Hochul joined advocates and lawmakers to announce the launch of the Advanced Cell and Gene Therapy Clinical Fellowship. In a partnership between Buffalo’s Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center and San Juan City Hospital / University of Puerto Rico Comprehensive Cancer Center, the launch is expected to drive clinical breakthroughs that benefit patients in both states and Puerto Rico, while supporting advanced biomedical technologies. “By working with our partners in Puerto Rico, we can help strengthen their ability to provide cutting-edge cell and gene therapies while creating new opportunities for collaboration and discovery,” said Hochul.

Last week, Hochul touted the release of the state Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC) 2025-26 Annual Report, highlighting the state’s progress in expanding college access and financial aid. According to the report, HESC administered nearly $1 billion in financial aid to approximately 300,000 students, including more than 152,000 students who benefited from expanded income eligibility under TAP. Additionally, Hochul touted the success of the 2025 College Application Month initiative, which saved families an estimated $15 million in application fees, along with a nearly 70% increase in veterans receiving tuition assistance and a 6% increase in FAFSA completions. With the report, Hochul reiterated her commitment to expanding college access to all individuals in the state. “We will continue breaking down financial barriers, opening doors to opportunity and investing in the next generation of New Yorkers who will drive our state’s economy and shape its future,” said Hochul.

To address rising energy costs, Hochul announced that applications for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) are now open to provide financial assistance to eligible households. If accepted, applicants could receive up to $1,086 in assistance, depending on income, household size, and heating source, and a family of four earning up to $82,230 annually could potentially qualify for benefits. In addition to accepting HEAP benefits, Hochul reiterated her commitment to addressing rising energy costs, with the state increasing base HEAP benefit amounts for recipients who have their heating fuel delivered. “No New Yorker should have to choose between heating their homes this winter and keeping food on the table,” said Hochul.

After a report, Hochul said that the state led the nation for the ninth consecutive year in utilizing state and federal Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credits, which supported $2.27 billion in investments to restore and modernize historic buildings in 2025. According to the report, the $2.27 billion investment resulted in 106 completed rehabilitation projects, supporting more than 37,000 jobs, $1.6 billion in income, and $4.28 billion in economic output. Additionally, the tax credits were found to directly benefit 164 affordable housing projects, supporting Hochul’s $25 billion housing agenda by encouraging private investment, transforming underutilized historic properties into affordable housing, and revitalizing communities across the state.

To modernize the state drinking water infrastructure, Hochul announced the disbursement of more than $249 million in grants for 181 water quality protection projects across the state. The investment is expected to support water infrastructure upgrades to modernize the state’s water supply, reduce harmful algal blooms, and restore aquatic habitats. In total, more than $246 million for 139 projects was disbursed through DEC’s Water Quality Improvement Project program and an additional $2.9 million for 42 projects supporting stormwater management and water quality planning. The funding builds on the state’s priority to improve its drinking water supply, protect public health, and defend against increasing adverse weather events. “Access to clean water is a fundamental human right, which is why under my administration New York has made record investments to improve water quality across the state,” said Hochul.

After a recent report, Hochul said the state’s adult-use cannabis industry surpassed $4.1 billion in cumulative retail sales since legalization took effect in December 2022, with the state recording $1.41 billion in retail sales through the third quarter of 2026. Currently, 744 licensed dispensaries operate statewide and more than 2,350 cannabis licenses have been issued, including 56 percent awarded to social and economic equity applicants. Additionally, Hochul touted the state’s ongoing effort to shut down unlicensed dispensaries, which has resulted in the closure of 191 illegal storefronts and the seizure of approximately $125 million in illicit cannabis products in 2026. “Hundreds of licensed dispensaries are now open across the state, most licenses have gone to equity entrepreneurs, and cannabis revenue is going back to communities that need it most,” said Hochul.

LEGISLATIVE UPDATES

Hochul Signs Bill AI Chatbot Bill

Last week, Hochul signed a bill that will restrict AI companion chatbots from certain interactions with minors, including pretending to be human, building emotional dependency, promoting self-harm, encouraging children to keep secrets, and discussing sexually explicit content. Sponsored by Assemblymember Alex Bores and Senator Kristen Gonzalez, lawmakers and advocates said the bill would prohibit AI companion chatbots from encouraging antisocial behaviors amid federal inaction on AI policies. “New York is sending a clear message: if you want to do business in our state, you need to put the safety of our kids first,” said Hochul. This comes as Hochul and lawmakers have begun to eye further restrictions on AI.

DOB Projects Better-Than-Expected State Revenue

According to the state’s mid-year update report, the DOB increased its projected tax revenue by $8.1 billion for the current fiscal year, driven by stronger-than-expected tax receipts and strong Wall Street profits, in part due to AI growth. With the increased revenue, the state is expected to put it toward the state’s reserve fund and slash the projected deficit for the upcoming fiscal year from $6.4 billion to $2.9 billion. Additionally, the projected deficit for the 2029 and 2030 fiscal years was slashed from a combined $25.2 billion to $14.7 billion. This comes as Budget Director Blake Washington asked agencies to hold spending and increase the total reserve fund. Just recently, Washington confirmed that over $4 billion of the $8.1 billion has already been put into the state reserve fund, bringing the total to over $19 billion, with the rest for next year's spending.

Susan Watts/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul

Hochul Signals Willingness to Raise Tax for Childcare

Earlier this week, Hochul said she is open to raising taxes next year to fund statewide free childcare. "I will work hard to manage within our existing resources, but if we need more, we will find a path, as I've done before when there's a particular need. A very specific need," explained Hochul. This comes after Hochul downplayed the chances of her proposing to raise taxes, with Hochul previously saying a week before Election Day, “All I know is my position is I don't want — I will not raise taxes. I'm very clear on that." In response, Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins remarked that Hochul is “trying to open to the realities of what we’re facing” and that she is “looking forward to next year. I think it’ll be very good.”

Hochul Looks to Reform SED Structure

In a podcast interview, Hochul said she is looking into giving the Executive Office more control over the state Education Department, which would require approval from the Legislature next year. “People see in the articles, ‘New York State abandons Regents. They think I’m New York…The buck should stop with me, given that we are the funder of education,” explained Hochul. The remarks come after some lawmakers and advocates raised concerns about the state transitioning away from Regents without a clear plan. A Hochul spokesperson further clarified that Hochul is also concerned about the “lack of clarity about what will replace” the Regents exams. However, it remains to be seen whether the Legislature would approve Hochul’s proposals, with Senate NYC Education Chair John Liu explaining, “The state Education Department is structured the way it is due to law as well as the state constitution, so the Governor will need to work within those confines.”

AG Tish James Reminds Counties of Deadline of 287(g) Agreements

After a federal judge ruled against a group of county sheriffs suing the state to block the enforcement of the state prohibition of 287(g) agreements, AG Tish James sent a letter to all counties reminding them of the November 25th deadline to comply with the law. “My office is providing guidance to help local officials understand their obligations under the law and ensure they meet the deadline,” explained James. Many Republican lawmakers and counties with 287(g) agreements have criticized the law, saying it has been a useful tool for law enforcement agencies because it allows them to get additional resources from the federal government and increase public safety. However, many Democratic lawmakers, who approved the law earlier this year, argue that states and local governments should not use their resources for immigration enforcement. It remains to be seen if the remaining counties with 287(g) agreements ultimately comply with the law.

ELECTION UPDATES

AG Tish James and State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli Easily Win Reelection

In addition to Hochul, Democratic incumbent AG Tish James and State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli also cruised to reelection. James also secured her third term, defeating GOP former federal prosecutor Saritha Komatireddy by about 20%. DiNapoli, who faced two primary challengers earlier this year, secured a fifth term, defeating GOP Joseph Hernandez by about 29%. James’ victory comes amid her continued legal battles with the Trump administration, with her campaign emphasizing public safety, consumer protection, and holding corporations accountable. Meanwhile, DiNapoli, who has served as Comptroller since 2007, said he would continue impartial fiscal oversight, manage the state pension fund, and identify government waste.

Democrat Candidates Win South Brooklyn Districts

Amid internal conflicts within the Brooklyn Democratic Party, a slate of Democrats swept three Assembly and one Senate seat, all held by Republicans. In the district covering Bay Ridge to Coney Island, Chris McCreight appears to oust once-Democrat-turned-Republican Alec Brook-Krasny. In a nearby district covering Midwood and Manhattan Beach, Joey Cohen-Saban appears to oust Michael Novakhov, while Joyce Xie appears to oust Lester Chang in the Bensonhurst and Sunset Park-based district. In the overlapping Senate District, Larry He appears to oust Steven Chan, who defeated Democrat Iwen Chu in 2024. The victories come as Assemblymember Nikki Lucas, who is supported by former BK Dem Chair Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn, and Julio Peña III, who is part of a Brooklyn Can’t Wait coalition, are in a legal battle over the leadership of the party.

Last night, the Hudson Valley proved that people across the political spectrum can come together united by shared values and the belief that America’s best days are still ahead of us. And for that, we celebrate.

Now, we start getting to work. We have a lot to do to root out the corruption that has taken hold in Washington, lower costs for working families, and make our government serve the people once again.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for entrusting me with the privilege of a lifetime. I will never take it for granted, and I promise to fight each and every day for the better, more affordable future we all deserve.
— Cait Conley (@CaitforNewYork) November 4, 2026

Mike Lawler Concedes to Democrat Cait Conley

In one of the state’s most closely watched congressional races, Democrat Cait Conley defeated two-term Republican incumbent Mike Lawler in the Hudson Valley-based district, which has consistently voted Democrat for president but Republican for Congress in recent election cycles. Conley, a veteran and former national security official, won the race with about 53% of the total votes compared to Lawler’s 47%. Since Lawler’s first election in 2022, Democrats have consistently targeted the district and seen it as vital to taking control of Congress. “We show people that we can build a coalition of neighbors of New Yorkers, of Americans, who even if we don't share a political affiliation, we share values, and that is so much more important,” said Conley.

Constantino NY-21 Victory Speech https://t.co/HAhYCcseww
— Anthony Constantino (@constantino) November 5, 2026

Republican Anthony Constantino Wins Close Race to Succeed Elise Stefanik

In another closely watched congressional race, Republican Anthony Constantino defeated Democrat Blake Gendebien for the open North Country congressional district. Constantino, the CEO of Sticker Mule and a close ally of President Trump, received about 51% of the vote, while Gendebien received 49%. However, some Republicans expressed concerns as Gendebien, a dairy farmer from St. Lawrence County, had a competitive campaign in a historically Republican district that outgoing GOP Rep. Elise Stefanik carried by more than 20 percentage points in 2024. In his election-night party remarks, Constantino said that he will “spend the next two years winning” voters who voted for Gendebien and “get results for people.”

State Republicans Call for Party Reform As Stefanik & Constatino Criticizes Blakeman

Hours after he declared victory, Constatino posted on social media criticizing the state Republican Party chairs and compared Brucke Blakeman to “propped up by Evil Media and the Democrat Machine.” Constatino also said Blakeman “was in on the con” and urged a reform of the state Republican Party by replacing state Republican Chair Ed Cox. Stefanik also criticized Blakeman for the GOP’s losses in the state and urged the GOP to be “built from scratch.” However, Blakeman criticized Constatino back, calling him “the worst candidate” he ever encountered and blaming Stefanik for the GOP’s losses in the state, calling her “selfish” and a “do-nothing politician.” However, many Republicans have openly called for the party to be reformed, with now Assemblymember-elect Marc Molinaro saying, “I don't make it personal, but there needs to be change.”

AOC Touts Her Influence During This Year's Midterm

After a swath of Democrat victories statewide and nationwide, supporters of Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, including some DSA lawmakers, have publicly called for her to run for president in 2028. However, there is also speculation that she could challenge top US Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer, who is currently eyeing the next Majority Leader role. AOC, seen as an ally of Mamdani and a campaign partner of Hochul this year, notably released a memo highlighting her influence during this year’s midterm elections. In the memo, she touted herself as a “top surrogate” for campaigns alongside former VP Kamala Harris and former federal DOT Secretary Pete Buttigieg, as well as her “race-changing endorsements in swing districts and deep-blue party primaries.”

OTHER UPDATES

Aung Hset/D&A

Democrats Retake Control of Congress After Tuesday's Election Day

In a largely historic Tuesday election night, Democrats are expected to win control of Congress, which many have categorized as a rebuke to President Trump and the Republican-controlled Congress. With Democrats winning seats in Texas, Kansas, Iowa, and Ohio, many are expecting the party to pick up at least 7 new seats, for a total of 52 Democrat-controlled seats in the Senate. However, if Democrats Scott Colom of Mississippi and Mary Peltola of Alaska maintain their leads over their GOP incumbents, Democrats would have 54 Democrat-controlled seats. In the House, Democrats flipped more than 40 Republican-controlled seats, including seats in Texas, Pennsylvania, and North Carolina, and appeared to win 254 seats by Sunday morning, with 19 seats still uncalled.

With Democrats set to control both chambers of Congress next year, top Democrats Senator Chuck Schumer and Rep. Hakeem Jeffries are eyeing the top jobs in their respective chambers, with Jeffries potentially becoming the first Black Speaker of the House. However, some elected Democrats have expressed opposition or concerns about electing either Schumer or Jeffries to leadership.

AG Tish James Reiterates Her Support for Hakeem Jeffries

Similarly, with several DSA candidates, including Assemblymember Claire Valdez and Darializa Avila Chevalier, elected to Congress and defeating several incumbents earlier this year, AG Tish James reiterated her support for Hakeem Jeffrries. “For those who live in his district and are so drunk of power to think that they’re going to run against this man, you’ve got to get past this neighborhood, and Tish James,” James remarked. The remarks comes as DSA have been open about possibly primarying Jeffries, who is eyeing to be the next Speaker of the House.

Judge Orders Mamdani to Give Shelter Information to ICE

After a federal judge ordered the Mamdani Administration to turn over information about unhoused immigrants residing in city-run shelters, AG Tish James said she is working with Mamdani and “reviewing the possibility of an appeal.” The ruling comes after a year of legal battle between Mamdani and ICE, as ICE repeatedly asked the Administration for an increasingly narrow set of records and personal information, which the Administration alleges was ICE’s attempt to “leverage the federal administrative subpoena power to circumvent and undermine the City’s sanctuary city laws.”

From Policy to Politics: D&A at SOMOS 2026

The annual SOMOS conference brings together the official business of government with the equally important opportunities for networking, relationship-building, celebration, and preparation for the upcoming legislative session. This year’s conference was bustling with elected officials, policymakers, advocates, and political insiders from across New York State.

The D&A team enjoyed connecting with colleagues and partners at receptions and events throughout the conference, while also helping organize important policy discussions. Among the highlights was a packed and informative panel exploring the impact of artificial intelligence on education and the workforce. The discussion featured D&A client Guardian Life, representatives from some of New York’s most influential labor organizations—including AFT, NYSUT, and PEF—and Urban Upbound.