Rockland Reporter

Congressman Mike Lawler has issued a statement criticizing Governor Kathy Hochul, accusing her of dishonesty regarding the funding of her "inflation refund" check program. According to Lawler, the governor falsely claimed that a sales tax surplus was used to finance this initiative.

"It should come as no surprise that the most incompetent Governor in New York's history isn't capable of reading a balance sheet," stated Congressman Lawler. "But it is sad that Governor Hochul feels the need to lie to New Yorkers about how her political 'vote-for-me' checks are being paid for."

Lawler also highlighted concerns about transparency within the Hochul administration, referencing recent scrutiny over a $9 billion Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) deal. He remarked, "This lack of transparency is nothing new for the Hochul Administration, which has come under fire in recent weeks for a shady $9 billion CDPAP deal that has come under bipartisan scrutiny for its blatant opaqueness." He concluded by asserting, "New Yorkers deserve better than Governor Hochul's lies and obfuscation, and in 2026, they'll get it."

Congressman Lawler represents New York's 17th Congressional District. The district includes areas north of New York City and encompasses all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties.