New Assemblyman Michael Cashman Expresses Hesitation to Endorse Governor Hochul Amid Concerns Over Prison Safety and Staffing Shortages

Newly Elected Assemblyman Raises Concerns Over Hochul’s Leadership Amidst Prison Crisis

Plattsburgh, NY — In a surprising twist following his victory in the special election for the 115th Assembly District, newly elected Democrat Michael Cashman has expressed hesitance in endorsing Governor Kathy Hochul for reelection. Cashman, who defeated Republican Brent Davison by over 1,600 votes, voiced significant concerns regarding Hochul’s handling of a critical shortage of correction officers and escalating violence within state prisons.

After declaring victory early Wednesday morning, Cashman emphasized his commitment to addressing issues of affordability and safety in the North Country, which encompasses Clinton, Franklin, and Essex counties. However, he quickly pivoted to express his reservations about the governor’s leadership.

“We’re going to work on protecting our future and planning for our future,” Cashman told reporters. Yet, he added, “She and I have differences. She needs to recalibrate some things and have some honest conversations about the safety of COs.”

Cashman’s remarks come at a pivotal time for the Democratic Party, as Hochul gears up for what is expected to be a challenging reelection campaign against likely challenger U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik in 2026. The assemblyman-elect’s reluctance to support the incumbent governor raises questions about party unity as Democrats prepare for the upcoming election cycle.

The new assemblyman’s concerns are rooted in the ongoing crisis within New York’s correctional facilities. Cashman criticized Hochul’s response to a recent illegal wildcat strike that led to the dismissal of over 2,000 correction officers, leaving the state with a staggering shortage of 4,500 officers. He described the governor’s actions as “abhorrent” and “vindictive,” emphasizing the need for a more supportive approach to correction officers’ health and safety.

“I will always stand by individuals in that regard,” Cashman stated, highlighting the urgency of addressing the issues facing correction officers. He also expressed a desire to repeal the HALT Act, which restricts the use of solitary confinement, a move that has been largely rejected by his fellow Democrats in Albany.

While Cashman prepares to take office in January, he aims to leverage his position within the Assembly majority to secure resources for his constituents, focusing on affordable housing, senior support, and rural healthcare. He also hopes to influence discussions around the state’s all-electric mandates, which he believes could strain the electric grid in Northern New York.

As Cashman steps into his new role, he remains uncertain about his future support for Hochul. “I’m just getting into this,” he said, indicating that further discussions with the governor are likely as he navigates his responsibilities in Albany.

Meanwhile, Davison, the Republican candidate, reflected on his campaign, noting that many voters expressed frustration over the ongoing federal government shutdown and its impact on food assistance. Despite his loss, he believes the desire for change remains strong among constituents.

With the 115th Assembly District evenly split among Republican, Democrat, and independent voters, Cashman’s victory signals a potential shift in the political landscape of the region. As he prepares to take office, all eyes will be on how he balances his party affiliation with the pressing concerns of his constituents and the broader issues facing New York State.

All voting results remain unofficial until certified by the state Board of Elections.