Friday Morning Brief October 17, 2025

Oct 17

Written By Michael Avella

Please note the brief will be sent on a bi-weekly basis for the summer/early fall.

Member Spotlight

Assemblyman Kwani O'Pharrow

Assemblyman Kwani O’Pharrow joins us to discuss his Long Island-based district, priorities, and some of the work he did in his first year in the Assembly. Prior to being elected to the Assembly, he served as a detective for the NYPD and a school safety supervisor in Brentwood. Currently, he serves on various committees, including on Higher Education, Local Governments, and Social Services.

What district do you represent?
District 11 represents Suffolk and Nassau County. It encompasses Copiague, Lindenhurst, Amityville, Wyandanch, Wheatley Heights, East Massapequa, East Farmingdale and parts of N. Babylon, W. Babylon, and Deer Park.

What are some of the landmarks in your district?
Belmont Lake State Park serves as a prominent landmark in the district. Other notable sites include Republic Airport and the Lindenhurst Historical Railroad, which preserves the original railroad station. Northeast Elementary School is one of the largest polling sites in Suffolk County, with approximately 13,000 to 15,000 registered voters, and it also holds significance as the site of Indigenous burial grounds. Additionally, the district is home to a SUNY institution—Farmingdale State College.

What about restaurants?
There are so many different restaurants that fit many palates. You can go from Italian to Asian fusion to Southern comfort food — we have a little bit of everything. Honestly, all of the restaurants in our district are my favorites.

Any favorite bands or artists?
I’m an old soul, as my grandparents would say. I like old-school R&B — artists like Barry White, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, and Al Green. I also enjoy Michael Jackson, the Jackson 5, and New Edition. So I’d say I’m more into that old-school vibe.

What about sports? Any favorite New York sports teams?
Well, I support all New York teams, so I won’t tell you who my absolute favorite is — I don’t want to make any constituents mad! But when it comes to baseball, the Yankees are my favorite.

What was your profession before being elected to the Assembly?
Before being elected, I served for 25 years as a detective with the NYPD. I retired three years ago. My main responsibility was providing protection for elected officials throughout the state, as well as presidents and other heads of state who came to New York City.

After retiring, I joined the public school system in Brentwood as a school safety supervisor for a little over two years. During that time, I co-founded a unit with my chief of staff called SACRO — Student and Community Relations Officers. We took a wraparound approach to public safety within the school district. We met with local elected officials and houses of worship, and we also conducted home visits for students who were absent or having trouble in school. We provided a lot of wraparound services for young people. I did that for two years before getting elected.

What inspired you to run for office?
I think my background really prepared me for public service because I’ve worked in it at almost every level. I served four years in the Navy, protecting our country. Then I worked in New York City as a police officer and later as a detective. Now I’m serving in Albany. So I’ve covered nearly all levels of government.

Outside of government, I also co-founded Cops of Long Island in 2019 and worked with other nonprofits doing a lot of public service and community work. I don’t think there’s any schooling or training that can truly prepare you for politics — it’s something you have to learn as you go. You can study political science, but it’s not until you’re immersed in the world of politics that you really understand it. My years of public service gave me a head start in understanding how to interact with and serve the public, which has helped me tremendously in this role.

What are some of the statewide issues you worked on this year?
My issues are the same as my constituents’ — especially given the economy and the challenges we’re seeing on the federal level. A lot of the concerns I heard while campaigning remain priorities today.
Infrastructure is a huge issue. Out here on Long Island, according to statistics from 2024, Suffolk County had over 1.3 million registered drivers — the highest in the state. Unfortunately, we also have the most vehicle fatalities. So infrastructure and road safety are top priorities for me. I’m also focused on protecting the environment, providing support for veterans coming home from service, and caring for our large senior population. Education, public safety, and environmental protection are also critical. There will always be challenges, but it’s my job to identify them, stay connected with my community, and fight for their needs.

A lot of your priorities are driven by your local community. Are there any other local community issues you’re working on?
Whatever issues my constituents bring up, I always try to help address them. That’s why, even in the off-season when I’m not campaigning, I’m still canvassing and talking to people to find out what’s on their minds — because issues change over time.
Economic concerns and public safety often drive people’s daily decisions — like whether they can afford to spend or not. I stay in close contact with local government, especially Babylon Town Supervisor Rich Schaffer, to find out what local issues might have broader statewide implications. It’s about listening, staying engaged, and keeping up with how people’s priorities evolve.

From talking to your constituents, what are some of the issues you think will be prominent next year?
Honestly, I think infrastructure will continue to be a big one. We have some of the most heavily traveled roads in Suffolk County, and we need to secure funding and support for roadwork and repairs. That kind of investment also helps attract visitors to the beautiful 11th District and the Town of Babylon.
Affordability is another major issue. Things are getting tighter for families. With potential cuts to programs like Medicaid and SNAP, people are wondering how they’re going to make ends meet. This is something I, and many of my colleagues in government, are very concerned about. Housing is also a growing issue. So affordability, housing, and infrastructure will all be major focuses next year.

You previously mentioned that you considered yourself a “friend in government.” Can you describe what that means?
Many constituents don’t trust politicians — and I understand why. Technically, yes, I’m a politician, but I don’t see myself as a typical one. I go directly to where the needs are. I’ll stop someone on the street and ask, “How are you doing? What issues are you facing?”

Sometimes I even give people my personal phone number and tell them to call if they need help. We’ll set up a meeting to talk privately about their concerns and see whether it’s a local or state issue. If it’s local, I’ll reach out to the Town of Babylon to help resolve it.

Being a “friend in government” means being supportive and accessible to constituents. Sometimes people just need someone to talk to — someone who listens. A true friend in government doesn’t always have to deliver something tangible; sometimes it’s about simply being there and showing you care.

What advice would you give to young folks who want to get more involved in politics but don’t know how or where to start?
The time is now. But it’s also on elected officials to change the narrative of what it means to be a politician and to not be so disconnected from everyday life.
I remember growing up with my single mother — there were times when our heat or gas was turned off, and we lived paycheck to paycheck. Many people in my district are in that same situation today — one missed paycheck away from being broke or destitute. That’s why I believe young people need to get involved now. If they don’t like how things are going, they have the power to change them.

I’ve been partnering with the Town of Babylon through our Ujima program, bringing in interns from all walks of life and backgrounds so they can experience how politics works firsthand. I also reach out to organizations to recruit young people interested in public service — sometimes they even stop by my office just to hang out and talk.
We need to make politics more inclusive — and more fun. There are long days, and if I broke down my paycheck by the hours I work, I’m probably making less than minimum wage sometimes! But it’s not about the money — it’s about duty and service. So my message to young people is: get involved, make it fun, and be part of the process.

What are you going to be doing before session starts?
Right now, I’m continuing to work on legislation and talk to constituents to find out what their concerns are. I use their feedback as a resource when shaping my legislative agenda. My priorities haven’t changed much from last session — I’m just looking to build on them and fill in any gaps.

Any last comments?
I don’t have a comment, but I do have a quote: Be that light that shines in the darkness. Let your light be seen. You are worth something.

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!

Susan Watts/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul

AG Tish James Indicted for Bank Fraud and False Financial Statements

Last week, a grand jury in Virginia indicted Attorney General Tish James on federal criminal charges with one count of bank fraud and one count of making false financial statements. If convicted, James could face up to 30 years in prison and up to a $1 million fine on each count. The indictment comes after President Trump publicly called for the federal Justice Department to bring charges against James, which also led a US attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia to resign after being pressured by Trump to do so.

Currently, the case is being overseen by Lindsey Halligan, interim US attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, who personally handled the presentation of the case to the grand jury. The indictment also comes as Trump has been calling for a broader investigation or charges against lawmakers who have criticized or opposed Trump. The indictment alleges that James improperly obtained a fixed-rate conventional mortgage at an interest rate of 3% by claiming the house was a “secondary residence,” but was actually used as a “rental investment property,” which would have carried a mortgage rate of 3.815%. As a result, the indictment alleges that James is poised to save “approximately $17,837” over the life of the loan.

In response to the indictment, James denied the charges and called it “baseless.” “…the president’s own public statements make clear that his only goal is political retribution at any cost,” James explained in a video statement. James’ attorney also added that the charges are “driven by President Trump’s desire for revenge.” However, Halligan explained that the “charges as alleged in this case represent intentional, criminal acts and tremendous breaches of the public’s trust.”

The indictment brought various criticisms from Democratic lawmakers across the state, with Hochul saying, “What we're seeing today is nothing less than the weaponization of the Justice Department to punish those who hold the powerful accountable.” Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie also reiterated Hochul’s statement, saying that the indictment is an “ongoing weaponization of the DOJ” and that it is a “direct threat to our democracy.” Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins calls the indictment “groundless” and another example of the Trump Admin weaponizing the DOJ against its political opponents. Many Democratic lawmakers allege that Trump was seeking to pursue charges against James for her role in the felony case against Trump and his business, where he was convicted of all 34 counts of falsifying business records

Susan Watts/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul

EXECUTIVE UPDATES

Last week, alongside lawmakers and labor unions, including D&A’s client Hotel and Gaming Trades Council, Hochul announced the start of the maximum weekly unemployment insurance (UI) benefit increase. Approved as part of the FY2026 Enacted Budget, the state invested about $7 billion to fully pay off the federal UI debt and brought the UI Trust Fund into solvency. With the UI debt fully paid off, the maximum weekly UI benefit will increase from $504 to $869. Additionally, employers will no longer have to pay the annual Interest Assessment Surcharge, which is expected to save an average of $100 per employee in 2026 and $250 in 2027, and it will also increase the taxable wage base. The approval to fully pay off the UI debt comes after years of advocacy from businesses and unions. “With the weekly maximum benefits increasing starting this month, we are able to uplift unemployed New Yorkers,” explained Hochul.

Late last week, Hochul announced a $10 million investment to establish a new multi-campus initiative for strengthening neuroscience research across the SUNY system. Under the new initiative, the SUNY Brain Institute will facilitate shared research infrastructure and equipment at eligible SUNY campuses with strong neuroscience programs, allowing over 600 SUNY neuroscience faculty to collaborate on studies of brain aging, stroke, mental health, neurodegenerative diseases, and neurotechnology. The establishment of the SUNY Brain Institute builds upon the previous state’s investment in the SUNY system and supports SUNY’s role in the state’s research infrastructure, which reached up to $1.16 billion in FY 2024. “The SUNY Brain Institute will leverage all of the strengths of our statewide public higher education system by increasing our researchers’ capacity for new discoveries and life-saving treatments,” explained Hochul.

On Tuesday, Hochul announced a $5 million state investment for the expansion of the Variety Boys & Girls Club in Astoria, Queens. With the funding for the expansion, the facility is primed to be the largest in the state and expected to serve up to 16,000 children. Specifically, the facility is expected to have a new athletic arena, swimming pool, planetarium, and non-profit incubator spaces. Additionally, the expansion will include the building of 200 new affordable housing units for young adults and at-risk homeless youth. The investment builds upon a previous $3 million investment for the facility by the Empire State Development. This investment will ensure that the Boys & Girls Club can expand its services for tens of thousands of Queens families — and it’s part of my ongoing work to deliver a brighter future for families all across New York,” explained Hochul

Earlier this week, Hochul touted a recent $21 million state investment for new law enforcement technologies on Long Island. Part of the broader $127 million grant program, the funds will allow local law enforcement agencies to buy modern computer-aided dispatch systems, drone equipment, and integrated records-management tools. Hochul explained that this year’s state investment in public safety has led to a 14% drop in crimes across Long Island and also touted the success of the Gun Violence Involved Elimination (GIVE) initiative in Nassau County. The $127 million grant program was part of the larger $347 million funding for gun violence prevention and public safety program that was approved in this year’s Enacted Budget by Hochul and the Legislature.

On Wednesday, Hochul announced the formation of a nonpartisan Governors' Public Health Alliance with fourteen other governors. The Alliance is expected to strengthen interstate coordination on public health and health emergencies, and to facilitate cooperation with global health partners. Specifically, the Alliance will help coordinate participating states on aligning public health policies on vaccine access and reproductive care. Led by Democratic governors, Hochul explained that the mission of the Alliance is to counter the recent federal government’s actions regarding public health. This builds upon recent actions taken by Hochul to improve public health access in the state, including a recently extended Executive Order to allow pharmacists to administer COVID vaccines. “From undermining vaccine access and abortion rights to slashing billions in Medicaid funding from those in need, the federal government is wreaking havoc on public health and the institutions we rely on,” explained Hochul.

Yesterday, Hochul announced the groundbreaking of a $55 million expansion of the Albany Capital Center. Supported by a $10 million state investment from Empire State Development and the Capital Region Economic Development Council, the expansion will include larger meeting and event space with five new meeting rooms, a large multi-purpose room, a new ballroom and pre-function area on the first floor, and a 3,000-square-foot courtyard for outdoor events. The expansion is part of Hochul’s larger $400 million effort to revitalize downtown Albany and accommodate growing numbers of industry, cultural, and commercial leaders. This expansion will allow even more residents, businesses, and visitors to experience everything that makes Albany vibrant — from conventions and expos to cultural events that strengthen the local economy and community pride,” said Hochul.

LEGISLATIVE UPDATES

There are currently 347 bills awaiting action by Hochul

Mike Groll/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul

Hochul Begins Acting on Bills

With two and a half months until the start of the new year and a new legislative session, there are 347 bills requiring Hochul’s signature or veto. So far, Hochul has acted on 436 bills, with seven vetoes last week and twenty-two vetoes this week. Notably, all seven bills that were vetoed last week were sponsored by Senator James Skoufis, who publicly criticized Hochul during this year’s legislative session and is currently leading an investigation over Hochul’s handling of the CDPAP transition. "Instead of being upset with me…she should be upset with the facts,” said Skoufis. However, Hochul’s spokesperson explained that she is evaluating “all legislation based on the merits.”

Pro-Choice Caucus Urge Hochul to Sign Healthcare Access Legislative Package

Right before Hochul started to act upon a myriad of bills that the Legislature had approved, the 117-member Pro-Choice Caucus sent a letter to Hochul urging her to sign a legislative package on reproductive and healthcare access. Two of the bills focus on reproductive care through increasing outreach and mandating private insurance care. The other three focus on expanding the state’s shield laws, increasing transparency of hospital services, and restricting the sale of personal health data. Lawmakers explained that the bills would protect the state’s healthcare access from “unremitting attacks on reproductive freedom and trans health” and ensure “access to evidence-based information about reproductive and sexual health care service.” “We must also stress the urgency of signing these bills into law. Anti-abortion states and the federal government are acting quickly… We must respond quickly, effectively, and decisively, and provide a roadmap for other access states to follow,” lawmakers explained in the letter. Notably, the bills to increase outreach and mandating private insurance care for reproductive access were vetoed today.

Aung Hset/D&A

Assembly Held Three Separate Public Hearings

This week, the Assembly held three public hearings, with respective hearings on data privacy and electronic materials in public libraries on Tuesday, and a hearing on the reimbursement system for domestic violence on Wednesday. During the hearing on data privacy, lawmakers focused on strengthening the state's existing regulatory framework for protecting online data and explored ways to increase electronic access to public libraries across the state. During the Tuesday hearing, lawmakers heard testimonies from advocates and nonprofits about the challenges providers face in receiving state reimbursement and the benefits of the Safe Shelter Act. Next week, the Assembly will hold another round of public hearings on virtual learning in colleges and universities, rent stabilization outside of NYC, and increasing energy costs.

Trump Terminates Federal Funding as Lawmakers Push for the RECOURSE Act

With Trump blaming congressional Democrats and the states they represent, he seemingly announced that the federal funding for the Gateway Tunnel Project in Manhattan has been “terminated.” This comes after Trump froze federal funding for both the Gateway Tunnel and Second Ave Subway projects a couple of weeks ago for alleged “unconstitutional” diversity, equity, and inclusion requirements. However, it is not known if the funding has been formally terminated. In response, Hochul criticized Trump for being “short-sighted.” “…if this system of transportation collapses, the northeastern economy and the economy of the country collapse,” explained Hochul.

The recent apparent freezing of federal funding is seen as part of a larger move by the federal government to restrict or reduce funds to the state, encouraging some lawmakers to support the RECOURSE Act. The bill would allow the state to withhold an equal amount of funds from the federal government if federal payments are withheld from the state in violation of a court decision. Senate sponsor Jessica Ramos previously explained that the bill is “a way to fight fire with fire. It’s putting our money where our mouth is.”

Mike Groll/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul

Division of Budget Ask Agencies to Reform or Remove Regulations

With lawmakers anticipating about $7.5 billion budget gap during next year budget negotiations and additional $3 billion cut in federal funding, the state Division of Budget asked existing agencies not to request for additional funding during their budget requests and to find regulations that could be reformed or removed. “state agencies should review agency rules, regulations, or public facing policies and propose for repeal or reform those which are outdated or obsolete,” DOB Director Blake Washington explained. Washington explained that the purpose of reforming or removing regulations is to cut agencies' costs and promote “consumer-friendly experience.”

Former JGR Staffer Files to Succeed Her Assembly Seat

Earlier this week, Brian Romero - a top staffer for Senator Kristen Gonzalez - officially filed to succeed his former boss, Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas, who is running for Senator Jessica Ramos’ seat. Romero explained that he is running to represent his home district and address longstanding issues he first encountered during his time as a social worker. “I’m ready to fight unapologetically for our communities and demand that our state government and our leaders respond to the political moment and ensure that New Yorkers are able to access their most basic needs,” explained Romero. If elected, Romero explained that his priority would be to pass a “tax the rich package of bills” to help the state raise revenue and to support bills that strengthen protections for immigrant communities.

Jon D. Rivera to Run for Senator Sean Ryan's Seat

With Senator Sean Ryan expected to win the November election for Buffalo mayor, Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera announced his candidacy for Ryan’s seat. Rivera explained that he is looking to run in the Senate to better respond to the recent actions by the federal government. "I'm looking at this moment in time and seeing what's happening at the federal level, knowing that fate and destiny - or whatever you want to call it - calls upon us to respond in a moment, and we need to do everything we can to combat it,” explained Rivera.

However, Rivera’s announcement was criticized as “deeply selfish” by the Chair of the Erie County Democratic Committee, Jeremy Zellner, who is rumored to be interested in running for Ryan’s seat. However, Rivera explained that he announced early to highlight “to voters to know in Tonawanda and in Grand Island and in Amherst and the parts of Buffalo that I don't currently represent that I'm a candidate and I'm in.” With Rivera’s announcement, a tenants’ rights attorney, Adam Bojak, also announced his intention to run for Rivera’s seat. Bojak previously ran for Rivera’s seat in 2020 but lost the primary to him.

DSA Eon Huntley "Exploring a Run" Against Stefani Zinerman

Yesterday, DSA Eon Huntley filed to challenge Democratic Assemblymember Stefani Zinerman again. While Huntley did not confirm that he is officially running against Zinerman, he explained that he is “exploring a run.” It would be Huntley’s second attempt to unseat Zinerman if he decides to run, with his first attempt last year only trailing Zinerman by less than 6 points in the Democratic primary. Notably, Zinerman’s Assembly district overlaps with House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries’ congressional seat and NYC Councilmember Chi Ossé's council seat, and Ossé is rumored to be considering a primary challenge against Jeffries.

Senator Peter Oberacker Officially Running for Congress

After previously indicating his interest in running for Congress, Senator Peter Oberacker formally announced his candidacy to challenge Democratic Congressmember Josh Riley. Oberacker explained that he is challenging Riley because he has not been present in the district and is out of touch with the majority of his constituents. “Wearing flannel does not make you a farmer. Putting on Carhartt can’t hide who you really are,” said Oberacker. In his announcement video, Oberacker explained that his experience as a business owner and a public servant would allow him to represent the district better. “I grew up working beside my father in our family’s market, learning the value of hard work, faith, and responsibility… They’ll guide me in Congress as well,” explained Oberacker.

OTHER UPDATES

Federal Government Shutdown Continues After Two Weeks

Yesterday, the Senate voted for the 10th time to advance a House GOP-led short-term spending plan that was again rejected. However, GOP Senate Majority Leader John Thune said he offered congressional Democrats a “guarantee” on holding a vote on extending the ACA subsidies, which have been fueling the shutdown. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries explained that Democrats do not trust Thune, Johnson, and President Trump, with GOP Senator Lisa Murkowski echoing Democrats’ concern. “If you’re a Democrat, you’re looking at it, and you’re saying, ‘Why am I going to try to be helpful, if Mr. Vought and OMB are just going to do a backdoor move and rescind what we’ve been working on?” explained Murkowski. On the length of the shutdown, Thune said, “I hope it doesn't last through Thanksgiving, because that's going to be a lot of harm to the American people.”

SCOTUS to Potentially Weaken the Federal Voting Rights Act

During Wednesday’s oral arguments over a Louisiana congressional map dispute, the US Supreme Court appeared poised to weaken Section 2 of the federal Voting Rights Act. The map has been disputed by a group of Louisiana voters alleging that the map with two majority-Black districts violates the US Constitution’s equal protection clause by sorting districts based on race. During the oral arguments, the majority of the conservative-leaning Justices questioned the legality of using race when creating congressional districts. “[T]his court’s cases, in a variety of contexts, has said that race-based remedies are permissible for a period of time… but that they should not be indefinite and should have an end point,” said Justice Brett Kavanagh. If the Justices rule that Louisiana’s map is unconstitutional, observers note that it would allow southern states to redistrict away many of the minority-heavy districts.

State Court of Appeals Upholds Even-Year Local Election Law

In a unanimous decision by the state Court of Appeals and an opinion led by a Republican judge, the even-year local elections outside of NYC have been upheld as constitutional. The state’s top court explained that the state has the legal power to change the schedule of local elections. Approved in the Legislature in 2023 with support from Democratic lawmakers, Republican lawmakers and officials criticized the law as an effort by Democrats to drown out local issues and argued that it violates “home rule” rights of municipalities. However, the opinion by the judges states that “Nothing in the text of these provisions, or in our jurisprudence, supports that view.”

Aung Hset/D&A

NYC Council Pushes Back Against Housing Ballot Measures

With three housing-related questions (#2, #3, #4) on the NYC ballot this November, a slate of unions joined various NYC Councilmembers, including the Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, in a rally urging voters to vote against the ballot measures. If all three ballot measures are approved, it would allow developers to potentially build new housing projects in areas without the approval of the representing Councilmembers. While the three ballot measures are supported by various city lawmakers, including NYC Comptroller Brad Lander, Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine, and Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso, the Council has opposed the measures, explaining that it would lead to local communities losing authority over which housing developments to approve. However, supporters of the ballot measures explained that it would allow new housing developments to be built faster.

NYC Mayoral Debate Between Mamdani, Cuomo, and Sliwa

Last night, Democratic nominee and Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani, Andrew Cuomo, who is running on the independent line, and Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa participated in the first NYC general mayoral debate. With three weeks until Election Day and early voting starting in a little over a week, moderators asked the candidates various questions on several issues, including public transportation, education, and housing. President Trump was also mentioned multiple times during the debate with questions on how each candidate would work with Trump and any responses to a potential National Guard deployment to NYC. While the debate largely centered on Mamdani and Cuomo, Sliwa repeatedly pitched himself as a viable alternative to Mamdani rather than Cuomo and criticized both when they were talking over one another. “There’s high levels of testosterone in this room,” Sliwa said at one point. Last night's debate was the first of two official mayoral debates scheduled before the November election day.

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