O’Mara earns ‘Highest Conservative Rating’: Recognized for combating ‘current rush for progressive ideology’ and commitment to priorities like protecting taxpayers, growing jobs, public safety

Albany, N.Y., January 29—As part of the Conservative Party of New York State’s (CPNYS) 53rd Annual political action conference this week in Albany, State Senator Tom O’Mara (R,C,I-Big Flats) was one of only three New York State legislators to receive the annual “Highest Conservative Rating” award.

O’Mara and two Senate GOP colleagues, Senator Daphne Jordan (R,C,I,Ref-Halfmoon) and Senator Robert Ortt (R,C,IP-Lockport), earned the recognition following the CPNYS evaluation of the 2019 legislative session.

“I’m proud to have this reaffirmation that my commitment to conservative priorities like protecting taxpayers, growing jobs, fiscal responsibility, a stronger business climate, protecting the Second Amendment, and overall public safety and security remains strong and a foundation of my legislative service,” said O’Mara.

CPNYS based the annual ratings on how state legislators voted on 25 pieces of legislation passed during the 2019 legislative session that impact a variety of issues including economic growth, fiscal policy, crime, health, education, and public safety.

The CPNYS noted that the overall State Senate ratings dropped 15 percent from the 2018 average of 55 percent, to a new low of 40 percent. The Senate, now under full Democratic control, explains the dramatic drop, party officials said.

“We believe that it is necessary to keep the public informed of key votes and let the taxpayers be aware of how elected officials spend our hard-earned money. Every bill is considered, and then we narrow the number to give voters a fair assessment of what transpires in Albany,” said CPNYS Chairman Gerard Kassar. “A review of the bills used (for the 2019 ratings) will show New Yorkers how out-of-touch the legislature is with the average citizen; many are costly and others will show how they help New Yorkers.”

The CPNYS also said that it “encourages voters to review the ratings and contact their legislators to remind them that conservative fiscal policy and principles make New York business friendly and encourages entrepreneurs to open businesses and most importantly to provide jobs to those who want to stay in New York State. The current rush for progressive ideology will only increase the exodus of families and further decline the opportunities that made New York the beacon to those who sought hope and prosperity.”