Assemblyman Kevin Byrne's Compromised Ethics

Our New York State Assemblyman, Kevin Byrne is now running for a second term. When he first ran in 2016, he stated (October 24, 2016) there is a “corrupt government in Albany and that’s why I am running.” But can one properly fight against corruption when receiving political donations from those indicted for fraud?

Steve Sabba, a large donor to the Republican Party and to Republican candidates, was indicted for tax fraud this year, and previously pleaded guilty to another fraud case in 2009. Sabba has made 5 contributions to Bryne’s campaign, most recently in July of this year. Sabba was also a contributor to the Astorino, Molinaro and Murphy campaigns.

Assemblyman Byrne sits on the Jurisdiction Committee. The functions of this Committee include governmental reform, lobbying and ethics laws. Until Byrne can claim the integrity he seeks of others, he should reconsider taking money from people like Sabba, and at minimum, return those donations, as Sabba could use the money for his defense attorney.

Using Byrne’s own words, “New Yorkers deserve an accountable, honest and transparent state government that works for them.” By his own measure, we clearly deserve better than Byrne. That's one reason why I will for Vedat Gashi on November 6th.

Celeste Theis

Yorktown