ALBANY, NY — Recently, I recognized the need to seek some additional help to overcome my battle with alcohol dependency. Â This was a difficult choice, but it is the right one for myself and for my family. Â I must now make my health and well-being my number one priority.
As a result of the completion of a thorough rehabilitation and recovery program, which I believe is critically important, I anticipate missing the beginning of this year’s legislative session. Â In my short absence, I have asked Senator Griffo to oversee the operations of our conference and those of the incoming Minority. Â He now serves as Deputy Minority Leader, and he will ensure that Senate Republicans can proceed seamlessly and without interruption until I return.
This marks my 33rd year in Albany. Â When my father passed away suddenly while in office and I was first approached about running for his seat, I never could have imagined serving in this way – – first in the Assembly, then the Senate, and ultimately being chosen as Majority Leader of this esteemed body. Â It’s been the honor and privilege of a lifetime, and one that I will never take for granted.
No man or woman is perfect, but it does not mean we all shouldn’t strive for continuous and daily improvement. Â I will attempt to do that with every fiber in my body. Â I thank my friends and colleagues for their patience, for their love and for their understanding, and am very much looking forward to the upcoming legislative session. Â This brief period of time away is necessary for my overall well-being, but will in no way impact my ability to serve my conference or my constituents.
I have met so many good and kind people along the way, and for that I will forever be grateful. Â I know their thoughtful words and heartfelt prayers in the days ahead will give me the strength to fight and win this battle once and for all.
