This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Health & Fitness

So How Is Gov. Cuomo Doing?

An expert on state politics weighs in on the governor.

I was wondering about Albany politics and how our East End representatives feel about Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s tenure so far.

So I asked Assemblyman Fred Thiele, who has a keen political eye, to go on the record. When I asked Mr. Thiele how he would rate Cuomo’s performance overall he replied, “Governor Cuomo has restored the reputation of state government and has helped to shed the label of 'dysfunctional.' Three consecutive on-time budgets, enactment of tax reform and ethics reform, as well as important initiatives like a balanced budget and marriage equality are examples of a government that is working.”

Then I asked Mr. Thiele how would he rate the Governor on things pertaining to the east end of Long Island. This is what Mr. Thiele said; “He has been responsive to East End issues by repealing the saltwater fishing license, partial repeal of the MTA payroll tax and the recently announced re-pavement of Montauk Highway from East Hampton to Southampton. His assistance to the East End during Superstorm Sandy was critical.”

Find out what's happening in Southamptonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

So I asked Mr. Thiele what he hoped the governor would do and would not do moving forward concerning the east end. Mr. Thiele replied, “We don't agree on everything. His current school proposal would hurt Long Island and must be reversed. Further, his idea to privatize LIPA is ill-considered. I appreciate the willingness of the Governor to consider other options before a final decision is made."

And how could I not ask Mr. Thiele about Governor Andrew Cuomo’s Presidential possibilities. When I asked him, “Do you think he is Presidential Timber?” this is what Mr. Thiele said, “There can be no doubt that Andrew Cuomo will be a player on the national scene as a Presidential contender. I hope that he first completes the job he has so ably begun in New York first.” I welcome comments from readers, I am curious.

Find out what's happening in Southamptonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?