Marc Butler has announced his candidacy for re-election in the 117th New York State Assembly District.
Butler, who is completing his seventh term and thirteenth year in the Assembly, made his announcement at a Wednesday morning rally at Waterfront Grille in Herkimer. He made similar election stops later in the day in Johnstown, in Fulton County, and Springfield, in Otsego County.
“This election is going to be about jobs, is going to be about the economy and is going to be about gas prices,” said Butler, R,C,I - Newport. “While there are always new challenges to look forward to in Albany, many of the issues of today are similar to the issues of the day I first campaigned for office. I hope to be part of the solution to resolving these issues, whether they be old or new.”
In outlining his re-election plans, the assemblyman cited his experience and seniority in the legislature.
“I am finishing my thirteenth year in the Assembly, and while a lot is said about minority politics and majority politics, seniority is definitely part of the equation. If you can prove that you have staying power and that you can contribute you receive more clout and more respect,” he said.
In discussing the respect he has earned in Albany to his gathered friends and supporters, Butler pointed to his position as the Ranking Republican on the Assembly’s Economic Development Committee, which he said places him in a unique position to help the region in its efforts.
Butler also talked about his work on property tax relief, economic development and constituent service as components of his tenure in office.
“I am proud of my record while in office, but I am equally proud of the staff I have assembled at my two offices in Herkimer and Johnstown and their efforts on behalf of the residents of our sprawling district,” he said. “Many of our ‘successes’ are not written about in the newspaper, but involve solving the numerous issues involving government that confront our residents each day.”
Of his work in Albany, Butler said he and his colleagues in the Republican Assembly Conference took a lead role in Albany on such issues as opposing former Gov. Eliot Spitzer’s plan to provide drivers’ licenses to illegal aliens, the need for property tax reform in New York state and the need to provide tax relief at the gas pump for the summer and incentives to encourage development of alternate fuel sources.
Most recently, Butler, working closely with Senator James Seward, local and county officials, was able to announce that Remington Arms, a major employer in Herkimer County and the region, would be expanding its workforce in Ilion, the historic home of the firearms manufacturer.
“I enjoy a very good working relationship with Senator Seward and Senator Hugh T. Farley, who represents my constituents in Fulton County. Not only do we work well together, but they provide me with sound advice,” said Butler. “I value my relationships with them.”
The assemblyman added that he is also working closely with economic development, county and local officials on measures that could lead to development in Fulton County, and that he is optimistic that their plans will come to fruition in the near future.
Butler said he will run a traditional yet aggressive campaign, adding that his background as a Herkimer County legislator, Newport village trustee and reporter for The Observer-Dispatch taught him to look at things objectively and to think about the ultimate results of the actions in Albany.
“I’m afraid some of my colleagues don’t consider thoroughly enough how our actions affect local counties, municipalities and schools,” he said.
The 117th District includes all of Herkimer and Fulton counties, as well as seven townships in Otsego County. “It’s a huge area with a diverse economy and diverse needs, but I enjoy representing the district and I hope to continue to work on behalf of its people,” said Butler.
Butler and his wife, Susan, live in Newport. They have two children, Caitlin and Jeffrey, and two grandchildren, Aydin and Emonnie.
Democrat Dan Carter of Little Falls previously announced his candidacy for the district seat.