Strong Headwinds

In Washington, D.C., House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) once again defied the odds to pass the “one big, beautiful bill” before Memorial Day. . . again with a key assist from President Trump. Johnson invited Trump to the Hill to encourage fiscal conservatives and moderate holdouts to get on board with the megabill. Trump’s message to GOP hardliners who want deeper cuts to address the federal budget deficit was simple: “Don’t fuck with Medicaid.” Trump was equally dismissive of concerns from blue state Republicans looking to remove the cap on state and local tax (SALT) deductions, reportedly telling Rep. Lawler, “I know your district better than you do; if you lose because of SALT, you were going to lose anyway.” 

Trump’s last-minute push worked magic. The House voted almost entirely along party lines—215 ayes to 214 nays—to advance the bill early on Thursday, with Republican Reps. Thomas Massie of Kentucky and Warren Davidson of Ohio joining Democrats in opposition, Freedom Caucus Chair Rep. Andy Harris of Maryland voting present, and Andrew Garbarino of New York not voting at all. Speaking from the floor, Johnson declared, “After a long week and a long night, and countless hours of work over the past year—a lot of prayer and a lot of teamwork—my friends, it quite literally is again ‘morning in America.’” Trump also took a victory lap, posting on Truth Social, “This is arguably the most significant piece of Legislation that will ever be signed in the History of our Country! Great job by Speaker Mike Johnson, and the House Leadership, and thank you to every Republican who voted YES on this Historic Bill!” Several compromises contained in the 42-page amendment attached to the original bill, combined with Trump's arm-twisting, ultimately won over many of the last-minute holdouts, including a provision to move up the start date for Medicaid work requirements from January 1st, 2029, to December 31st, 2026. The “SALT Republicans” did not achieve a full repeal, but the bill raises the cap from $10,000 to $40,000 per household with a $500,000 income limit. Lawler is selling the increase as a win, posting on Twitter, “SALT was my number one focus in Washington from Day One, and I’m proud to deliver tax relief for middle class and working families in New York this morning.”

Why did Garbarino, a leader in the SALT negotiations, not vote? Garbarino “fell asleep in the back, no kidding. . . I'm going to just strangle him,” Johnson jokingly told reporters after the vote, “but he's my dear friend.” In a statement issued by his office after missing the key vote, Garbarino said he would have voted for the bill. “I fought to lift the cap on SALT and ensure hardworking Long Island families see the benefits of this important legislation. . . I was moments away from the House floor, to vote 'yes,' when the vote was closed. While I am frustrated that the vote was closed before I was able to cast my vote, I am proud of the work we accomplished to deliver huge results for Long Island,” he concluded. Hmm.

The bill now goes to the Senate, where Republicans are likely to seek significant changes to the House version, especially the provisions included to win over GOP hardliners. It will require similar magic from Senate leader John Thune and persuasion from Trump to get it over the finish line.

Even when, or especially when, people rejected politics, Patrick was proud to call himself a politician and well-pleased with his part in the political process. That work made Buffalo and Western New York a better place. He also made me a better politician. Godspeed Patrick.

In honor of Memorial Day, a special thank you to State Sen. Nathalia Fernandez and Assemblymember Jon Rivera for providing seriously overdue recognition of the U.S. 65^th Infantry Regiment, known as the Borinqueneers.  

Assemblymember Andrew Molitor, a Republican, represents New York’s 150th Assembly District, which encompasses all of Chautauqua County. A lifelong public servant, former prosecutor, and committed community leader, Andrew brings a strong legal background and deep local investment to his role in the State Assembly.

Before his election in November 2024, Andrew served as Chautauqua County’s First Assistant District Attorney and previously held the position of President of the Bar Association of Northern Chautauqua. His legal experience provides him with a thorough understanding of New York’s justice system and fuels his commitment to restoring public safety. He is a vocal advocate for reforming bail laws, rolling back recent criminal justice changes, and ensuring law enforcement has the tools and resources needed to keep communities safe.

As a father of five, Andrew understands the daily economic pressures faced by working families. He is committed to lowering the cost of living through tax relief, reduced government spending, and opposing bans on natural gas and home appliances. He also champions affordable utility rates and robust investments in public education to support children and working parents alike.

Andrew is a longtime supporter of economic development and small business growth. He believes that reducing burdensome regulations and lowering taxes will help build a stronger economy and retain young families and entrepreneurs in Chautauqua County. He has also voiced serious concerns about proposed DEC wetland regulations and their potential impact on Chautauqua Lake, advocating for balanced environmental policies that protect local resources without burdening residents.

Beyond his professional life, Andrew is deeply involved in his community. He runs a men’s ministry and serves as a catechist at the Chautauqua Family of Catholic Churches. He lives in Westfield with his wife, Celia, and their five children, and is proud to represent the community he calls home.

Results of the Last Poll