Breaking the Democrat Supermajority in the New York State Assembly: Why Balance is Needed Now

Op-Ed By Tom Sullivan – NYS Assembly Candidate District 23

New York State has a long history of political power dynamics, but in recent years, the Assembly has swung too far in one direction, resulting in a supermajority controlled by the Democratic Party. This supermajority has significant implications for governance, limiting the effectiveness of checks and balances, and undermining the idea of fair representation for all New Yorkers. Breaking this supermajority will restore balance, promote diverse perspectives, and ensure that every voter, regardless of party affiliation, has a voice.

How We Got Here: The Rise of the Supermajority

In the 2020 election, the Democratic Party secured a veto-proof supermajority in both the New York State Assembly and the Senate. This means that even if the governor vetoes legislation, the Assembly has enough votes to override that decision, making it essentially unchecked. This shift was the result of several factors: demographic changes in key districts, national trends that favor progressive policies in urban areas, and, quite frankly, the lack of a strong and coordinated Republican opposition in certain parts of the state.

But the consequences of this supermajority have been far-reaching. When one party holds such overwhelming control, it can lead to governance that prioritizes ideological agendas over practical solutions. With no need to compromise or collaborate, the risk of extreme policies being passed increases, often without adequate consideration of the impacts on more moderate or conservative communities.

The Consequences of a One-Party Rule

For New York State, the consequences of this one-sided governance have been stark. We’ve seen policies enacted that, have pushed the state further left than many residents are comfortable with. This includes controversial decisions related to bail reform, taxation, and government spending that have left businesses, law enforcement, and middle-class families feeling marginalized.

Take, for instance, the bail reform laws that have been a focal point of debate. While intended to address inequalities in the criminal justice system, these reforms have been criticized for leading to a rise in repeat offenders being released with little accountability. Without a balance of power in the Assembly, there has been little room for the necessary revisions to make these policies more effective and less disruptive to communities. A more balanced Assembly would allow for these critical discussions to happen.

Why Breaking the Supermajority Matters

Breaking the supermajority is not about shifting all power to one party or another. It’s about ensuring that New York State’s government is representative of the diverse population it serves. A more balanced Assembly would mean that legislation would have to pass through negotiation and compromise, rather than being pushed through by sheer numbers.

When we have balance, we have debate. Different perspectives come to the table, and policies are more likely to be scrutinized, refined, and adjusted to ensure that they work for all New Yorkers, not just those on one side of the political spectrum. For example, a balanced Assembly could provide a more thoughtful approach to economic development, addressing the concerns of businesses leaving the state due to high taxes and regulations, while still supporting social safety nets.

Fair Representation: A Return to the People’s Voice

Fair representation is a cornerstone of democracy. In a state as diverse as New York, it’s essential that all voices—urban, rural, conservative, progressive—are heard and considered in the legislative process. The current supermajority has tilted the scales, leaving many communities feeling unrepresented in Albany. By breaking the supermajority, we can ensure that every vote matters and that every community has a seat at the table.

I understand the importance of balance in government. My vote, along with others, could be the key to breaking the Democratic supermajority and restoring a more representative, accountable, and balanced government. As a retired Army Colonel with over 30 years of service, I have seen firsthand the importance of diverse perspectives and collaborative decision-making. My background speaks to the need for leaders who are not only principled but who understand that true progress comes from working together.

The Path Forward: Why Change is Needed Now

New York has become “too blue” not because there aren’t valid Democratic principles worth pursuing, but because there has been no counterweight to moderate or temper policies that might otherwise become more inclusive of all perspectives. The concentration of power has led to a governance style that often overlooks the needs of the working class, small businesses, and law enforcement—groups that form the backbone of many communities across the state.

Now is the time for change. Breaking the supermajority will not solve every problem overnight, but it will reintroduce necessary checks and balances that prevent any one party from dominating the political landscape. It will allow for more productive discourse, better policy outcomes, and a government that truly represents the people it serves.

The upcoming election presents a critical opportunity to restore balance in the New York State Assembly. It’s not just about me –  or any one candidate—it’s about creating a government that listens, represents, and acts in the best interest of all New Yorkers. Breaking the supermajority is the first step toward a more fair, functional, and future-focused New York.

Tom Sullivan is the Republican candidate for NYS Assembly District 23 (Queens)