This Week in Albany – June 26, 2026

1. Tom DiNapoli Wins

We congratulate State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli on a decisive victory in the Democratic primary Tuesday. This was made possible by the hard work of CSEA members and staff from across the state, particularly our retiree members who sent more than 25,000 postcards. Thank you to all who came out to support Tom. Your efforts made a difference, and together we helped ensure New York will continue to have a comptroller who stands with working families and protects our retirement security.

2. Primary Election Recap — CSEA Wins Key Races Across New York

CSEA was also successful in several critical Democratic primary races across the state. Among the highlights were Assemblymember Jon Rivera’s victory over an incumbent state senator in Buffalo’s 61^st Senate District and Adam Bojak’s win in an open Assembly seat in Erie County. We were also successful in defending longtime allies such as Assemblymember Didi Barrett in the Hudson Valley and Assemblymember Demond Meeks in Rochester.

Not every race broke our way. Several longtime legislators supported by CSEA were defeated, including Assemblymember Erik Dilan of Brooklyn. In New York City, several challengers backed by progressive organizations and political leaders were successful in congressional and legislative contests, signaling continued shifts within the Democratic electorate.

One race remains too close to call: the 129^th Assembly District in Syracuse, where 28-year incumbent William Magnarelli is trailing Onondaga County Legislator Maurice Brown. If Magnarelli is ultimately defeated, it would create a vacancy in the chairmanship of the Assembly Transportation Committee.

Overall, the results were a positive night for CSEA. We secured victories in our highest-priority races, protected key legislative allies and helped return Tom DiNapoli to the ballot this November.

3. CSEA Legislative Toolkit

We’re updating materials on our 2026 legislative session victories. These will be available, soon! A summary of the FY 2027 New York State Budget is available, here.