Republicans in the state Assembly picked a new leader Monday, elevating a Long Island lawmaker to the top post, according to the Times Union.
The conference unanimously selected Edward Ra to serve as minority leader after Will Barclay stepped aside ahead of his planned exit from office. Ra, 44, represents Nassau County and has led GOP efforts on the powerful Ways and Means Committee, often serving as the party’s chief budget voice.
Ra becomes the first Republican from Long Island to lead the Assembly conference in more than 50 years. He says he plans to loudly challenge Democrats while continuing bipartisan work when it benefits New Yorkers.
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