News from New York Republican State Committee

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Mondello: Assembly Driver’s License Hearings Are Critically Important

Mondello Statement

ALBANY, NY (10/03/2007; 1620)(readMedia)-- Today’s hearings by Assembly Republicans continues the public outcry we are seeing, through our online petition on www.nygop.org, in opposition to Governor Spitzer’s plan to issue driver’s licenses to illegal aliens.

Governor Spitzer acted unilaterally to change a critically important homeland security policy without consulting the elected representatives of the people, the county clerks who have a responsibility to implement the policy, or the general public—a disturbing trend we have seen far too often from the Governor.

In contrast, today’s hearings by the Assembly Republicans represent a refreshingly open, public and accountable approach to the issue by listening to the experts and the public. I commend them for their efforts and strongly urge the Governor to reconsider his ill-advised plan.

Governor Spitzer’s policy, which has been cited as being dangerous, costly, a threat to the integrity of voter registration and possibly illegal, should not be forced upon the public.

A broad cross section of New Yorkers have already begun reaching out to make their voices heard through our online and printable petitions. Republicans in the Assembly and the Senate have taken a courageous stand against the implementation of the dangerous plan, and numerous county clerks have expressed their serious concerns.

Unfortunately, Governor Spitzer has responded to this public outcry by launching insults against anyone with a legitimate difference of opinion in an effort to cover for his overbearing, heavy-handed approach.

This time, it appears that the Governor is trying to steamroll all the people of New York State.

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