By Dan Murphy
Assemblyman Kevin Byrne recently kicked off his re-election campaign for a 3rd term, serving in the 94th district, which includes Northern Westchester and Putnam County. Byrne is currently the only republican State legislator representing Westchester County.
In his remarks, Assemblyman Byrne touted his record of consistently standing up for a more “responsible, accountable, affordable government that values our constitutional freedoms” and pledged to continue to fight for the rights of all New Yorkers. He is known for his common-sense approach, working across the aisle when needed, and commitment to getting work done for constituents. Byrne’s record in Albany includes passing 19 pieces of legislation, more than most of his colleagues within his Assembly class, regardless of political affiliation. He has consistently protected taxpayers, voting against every proposed state tax increase and promoted pro-business laws that helped welcome new businesses, and the jobs they create, to the region.
The National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB) recently endorsed Assemblyman Byrne. “Small businesses are some of the largest job creators in our nation and that’s no different here in New York. The year 2020 has created all sorts of new challenges for these amazing job creators and they have stepped up to the plate. It’s up to New York State to do a better job in supporting them. I’m committed to promoting economic growth and advocating for small business. As Assemblyman for the 94th District, I’ve fought against mandates that enrich bureaucracies and impoverish our businesses and will continue to do so,” said Byrne.
While in the state Assembly, Byrne has fought to secure moratoriums on all new regulations; eliminate incorporation fees for LLCs and partnerships; streamline and shorten timeframes for SEQR reviews; reduce burdensome taxes and protect small businesses.
Assemblyman Byrne also announced that he will appear on five ballot lines November 3, with the support of the Republican, Conservative, Independence, Serve America Movement, and Rebuild Our State Parties.
Byrne said it was important to run on five different party lines because it shows his wide range of appeal, ability to work with a variety of stakeholders, and commitment to represent all his constituents. Leaders from the parties touted Assemblyman Byrne for his common-sense approach to government.
SAM-NY Party chair Michael Volpe said, “The SAM Party of NY sought out candidates to run this November who will fight against Albany’s culture of corruption and advocate for choice and transparency in health care and education. Assemblyman Kevin Byrne is running on the SAM Party line November 4, and we are proud to endorse him for re-election. He has promoted New York’s economic growth and has not wasted time with the petty political infighting that is damaging to our democracy.”
Rebuild Our State Party founder and candidate for state Senate Rob Astorino said, “Rebuild Our State is committed to advancing pro-growth policies in Albany and putting an end to the endless taxation and regulation that is hampering New York State. As an Assemblyman, Kevin voted against every proposed tax increase before him. He will protect New Yorkers’ pocketbooks. He has been, and will continue to be, an advocate that will continue to put an end to wasteful government spending and rebuild New York back into the Empire State.”
Assemblyman Kevin Byrne said, “I thank the parties and their membership for their support. I am honored to have their backing for re-election. Since the beginning of my time in the state Assembly, I have sought to pass legislation that protects New Yorkers, supports responsible economic development and reduces the tax burden. I have advocated for law enforcement, first responders, health care workers, teachers, and all those that work hard to keep our state strong. I look forward to continuing to serve the people of the 94th Assembly District.”
Byrne’s opponent is first time candidate, Stephanie Keegan. Keegan is a former educator, mother, veteran’s advocate, and resident of Somers. Her son, Daniel Keegan, served in Afghanistan for 26 months. When he returned home, he struggled to get the care he needed. After a long struggle with PTSD and addiction, Daniel passed away in 2016. He never made it to his first VA appointment.
Keegan explains that she was spurred to activism after her son passed away four years ago from an infection from IV drug use. “For the last three years I have fought for people like Daniel, for families like mine,” she said. “I have been to Washington, I have spoken to lawmakers and advocated for the changes our families need. But we can’t wait for Washington. We need to invest in health care right here in New York – in mental health, in addiction treatment. We need to fight for our public health. We need to protect our natural resources. And we need to invest in our communities, because families who are struggling deserve access to the support they need.”
Keegan is hoping to bring her activism to this election, and to the resident of the 94th District.
