Reaction to the Governor's first-ever State of the State address is largely positive.

Republican State Senator Greg Ball said he liked what he heard and said he supported the Governor on such issues as a property tax cap.  Said Ball, "Hopefully that message will make its way into law and tax relief and doing what needs to be done. This state is hemorrhaging jobs, we're hemorrhaging people, folks are voting with their feet, and they need a governor and legislature to work together to get this state back on track." 

Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino who was in Albany for the State of the State message said "I thought it was a great speech.I think he said what had to be said. We have to cut spending in this state. It is a fundamental issue. Now I'm looking forward to working with him to push his agenda through. It has to happen." He cautioned however, "He's at 30,000 feet right now. That's his altitude. But, when he gets down to the ground level, which is where we're at in Westchester, as I've been over the past year, the battles become very fierce because you're changing the status quo."

State Assemblyman Steve Katz of Yorktown (R-99th District) issued a statement afterward saying, "Today's united message of Speaker Silver, Senate President Skelos and Governor Cuomo of the dire need for government reform and job creation was both positive and historic."  He added, "I hope all of the leaders who spoke today will be true to their word of reducing state spending, cutting taxes, creating jobs and negotiating the budget in an open and accountable manner."

Assemblyman George Latimer (D-91st AD) commented, "The Governor outlined, in a very dynamic address, the clear nature of the crisis we face, a clear understanding that we have no time to waste in addressing it and very specific plans to clean up ethics in Albany;to cap property taxes and reduce state mandated costs." Latimer added, "These are sobering times with real problems-but there is real hope that we've launched off in the right direction."

State Assemblyman Robert Castelli (R-C Goldens Bridge): "Governor Cuomo's State of the State address sets the right tone for a state that is facing a serious economic crisis and taxpayers who have had enough of Albany's fiscal incompetence. Now, the governor must put forth an Executive Budget that cuts spending, holds the line on taxes and included needed reforms, such as independent redistricting, a property tax cap, a state spending cap and changes to the pension system while still being mindful of the neediest in our society."

And, Yonkers Mayor Phil Amicone commented, "I think he hit on all the right notes. If he gets the cooperation of the NY State Legislature, then he really can make the kind of difference that we need made in this state."

Amicone particularly agreed with Cuomo's plans to incentivize education and reward schools and for educational and adminstrative performance. "I think you need to do that in every level that they can in this state. If you accomplish goals and accomplish what you set out to do, then you should be rewarded."