Assemblyman John Lemondes joined host Guy Cosentino on Inside Government at Cayuga Community College this week, offering an update on Albany activity and previewing his campaign for Congress. The conversation covered the federal government shutdown, New York’s climate and energy mandates, and local governance issues affecting Cayuga County and beyond.
Lemondes on the federal government shutdown
Lemondes, who represents Auburn and parts of Cayuga County, said the prolonged federal shutdown threatens essential operations across New York. Drawing on his 27-year Army career, he described shutdowns as “tough on people, tough on agencies, and tough on mission requirements.”
He estimated as many as 1.5 million New Yorkers could face rising health care premiums tied to the budget impasse. Lemondes said he plans to send a letter to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer urging both sides to compromise. “Stalemate forever doesn’t work,” he said, calling for a balanced resolution to protect workers and state operations.
Opposition to new energy mandates
Turning to state policy, Lemondes criticized recent climate legislation that bans fossil-fuel equipment in new construction and mandates school districts to transition to electric buses by 2027. He argued the rules are “emotional, not scientific,” and would increase costs for homeowners and taxpayers.
The assemblyman said his office estimates a single-family home could see $30,000 added to construction costs under the fossil-fuel phase-out. He also warned that the electric bus mandate would be “crushing” for school districts because of high vehicle prices and facility upgrades. “It simply isn’t possible to enforce this without bankrupting districts,” he said.
Renewable energy siting and local control
Lemondes voiced concern about Governor Kathy Hochul’s Office of Renewable Energy Siting (ORES), which he said allows the state to override local decisions on wind and solar farms. “ORES nullifies Home Rule,” he said, arguing that the process ignores local zoning boards and environmental review agencies.
He said many rural communities oppose large-scale renewable projects that alter landscapes or disrupt farmland. “I’m a fan of renewable research,” he said, “but not when it kills birds and changes our viewscape.” Lemondes said repealing ORES or challenging it in court may be the only options left for local governments.
Immigration, public safety, and state budget criticism
The discussion shifted to a recent ICE raid at a food processing plant in Cato. Lemondes said the operation exposed flaws in state law that restrict local law enforcement from cooperating with federal agencies. He called those laws “ludicrous” and “counterproductive to community safety.”
On the state budget, Lemondes said he voted against all major bills, citing excessive spending and “poison pills” in each measure. He opposed Auburn’s hotel occupancy tax being folded into the state budget and criticized education spending levels, saying, “We’re spending 80% more per pupil than the national average, and our results are middle of the pack.”
Lemondes launches campaign for Congress
Lemondes confirmed he will not seek re-election to the Assembly and is instead running for Congress in New York’s 22nd District, a key swing seat. He said his campaign will emphasize national security, fiscal discipline, and economic growth.
“I believe I have the skills, demeanor, and experience to represent the district in a way it’s currently being deprived of,” Lemondes said. He estimated his campaign will need at least $2 million to remain competitive in one of the country’s most closely watched House races.
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