NY Correction Officers Endorse Republican Blakeman for Governor
Union cites Governor Hochul's handling of prison crisis following staff strike.
The New York State Correctional Officers and Police Benevolent Association (NYSCOPBA) has endorsed Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman for governor in a landslide vote. The union's decision, with a vote of 1,370 to 78, marks the first time NYSCOPBA has endorsed a candidate in a statewide race. The endorsement comes as Governor Kathy Hochul faces criticism regarding conditions and staffing at state prisons.
Union president Chris Summers stated that the vote reflects the will of NYSCOPBA members regarding the upcoming November General Election. The union's leadership expressed that Blakeman's support is significant and signifies a shift in labor endorsements.
Relations between Governor Hochul and the union have been strained, particularly after her administration's decision to fire approximately 2,000 correction officers during an illegal strike last year. This action led to the deployment of thousands of National Guard troops to maintain operations within correctional facilities.
Despite efforts to recruit new officers following the strike, the state's correctional facilities continue to face staffing shortages. As of last month, records from the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision indicated a headcount of roughly 11,113 officers, sergeants, and lieutenants, a decrease from the approximately 14,000 employed before the strike.
Blakeman responded to the endorsement by vowing to reinstate the officers dismissed by Hochul and to prioritize law and order in New York. He criticized the governor for not prioritizing the safety concerns of correction officers and for dismissing those who advocated for safer working conditions.
In addition to endorsing Blakeman, the NYSCOPBA also announced its support for Republican attorney general candidate Saritha Komatireddy against incumbent Letitia James. The union has also endorsed Democratic State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli for re-election against Republican challenger Joseph Hernandez.