Statement: Expulsion of Sen. Monserrate

State Senator Brian X. Foley (D – Blue Point) released the following statement regarding the vote last night to expel Senator Hiram Monserrate (D-Queens):

“Last night the senate took historic action to remove Senator Monserrate from the chamber.  I have spoken about the need for this action since his conviction on misdemeanor assault charges related to an incident of domestic violence.  While it may seem drastic to some, Senator Monserrate’s expulsion was necessary because of the totality of his actions.

“Domestic violence is unacceptable in any form and from any member of our society, but particularly from those members who are entrusted by the public to uphold the laws of our state.  It certainly has no place in the New York State Senate.

“I would like to thank Senator Sampson for addressing this issue immediately after Senator Monserrate’s conviction by convening a committee to recommend a course of action, as well as for allowing my expulsion resolution to receive the consideration and discussion it deserved.

“Now that this issue has been decided, it is time for us to move forward.  There are many serious issues facing New York, and we must work together to solve them. Now is the time for us to focus on crafting a budget that helps as many people as possible while keeping in mind the current economic troubles facing our state, creating jobs, and lowering taxes.”