Point of View

The real facts about the IDC

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Facts matter.

Unfortunately, as we’ve seen on the national level, there’s an abundance of misinformation that threatens the political truth. And we would be naïve to assume that our state is immune to such inaccuracies.

For the record, the Independent Democratic Conference — which I lead — is comprised of eight diverse Democrats who share one common goal: To tirelessly advocate for progressive policies that improve the lives of working and middle class New Yorkers.

And this coalition of Democrats — we don’t sit on the sidelines and spew rhetoric. We realize these goals by delivering real results.

To name a few past achievements: Paid family leave, $15 minimum wage, and universal pre-K.

This year we were able to raise the age of criminal responsibility from 16 to 18 years old, legislation that without our progressive influence would surely have been dead on arrival in the GOP-controlled senate.

The IDC also secured an historic $10 million legal aid fund for immigrants across the state, and helped push for a record $1.1 billion increase in educational aid. 

The list of budget victories goes on, just as the IDC will go on crafting and introducing more progressive bills when we return to Albany following the holiday break.

Such legislation wouldn’t see the light of day from the mainline Democrats for the simple mathematical fact that, with or without the IDC, they don’t hold a majority.

As it stands, there are 31 Democratic senators in the state senate, one of whom sits with the Republicans, also ran as a Republican and voted for a Republican leader, propping them to 32 members.

Because of this, regardless of the IDC, the Republicans would still maintain the majority in the 63-member chamber, even when Perkins’ former seat is filled.

By remaining independent, the IDC is able to realize our progressive agenda and do more than just chirp on the sidelines and name-call. Without us, the Republican majority would seize complete control.

Now, there are two sides to every story, and recent letters to the editor only told one.

The concerns of my constituents are near and dear to my heart, and that’s why I’ve recently signed onto numerous bills that reflect their views. 

I always have supported a woman’s right to choose. I made that even more clear by co-sponsoring the Reproductive Health Act, which gives women the fundamental right to make vital decisions regarding their reproductive health.

In fact, the IDC is the only state senate conference that is entirely pro-choice.

On the health care front, thankfully, the absurd attempt to repeal the Affordable Care Act was quashed in Congress, ensuring millions of New Yorkers retain critical health care coverage.

But should the Trump administration further jeopardize health benefits, every member of the IDC now proudly supports the New York Health Act, which would provide comprehensive universal health care for every New Yorker.

These are the facts.

Actions speak louder than words — and evidenced by what the IDC was able to pass in this year’s state budget, we prefer the former.

The author is a state senator representing the 34th district, which covers parts of Bronx and Westchester counties. He’s also the leader of the Independent Democratic Conference, a group of eight state senators who have developed a power-sharing agreement with Republicans in the senate.

Independent Democratic Conference, New York Health Act, Affordable Care Act, Jeffrey Klein,

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