Albany, NY...

March 11, 2011-New York State Republican Chairman Ed

Cox released the following statement today in reaction to the sweeping
Federal investigation accusing Democrat State Senator Carl Kruger and
Democrat Assemblyman William Boyland of a complex $1million bribery
and money laundering scheme:

"It seems that next to producing higher taxes, Democrats in Albany are
best at producing shocking headlines that damage the reputation of
our government and our state. After several years of one sensational
Democrat scandal after another, one can only wonder how deep the rabbit
hole goes here. As a senior member of the Democrat leadership in the
State Senate, Senator Kruger had an enormous influence over legislation
and policy. This kind of pay to play is the worst kind of behavior for a public
official.

It is clear from the information released by the US Attorney's Office, that

an extensive investigation has been undertaken into Sen. Kruger and
Assemblyman Boyland's actions. Such charges make it impossible for
either to execute their responsibilities effectively and continue in a position
of public trust. After violating the public's confidence, both Democrat
officials should resign immediately.

The Senate Democrat Conference, which until recently also included close
Kruger associate Attorney General Eric Schneiderman, has been a sad
commentary highlighting dysfunction and corruption. We now add yet
another name to the list of others including Espada, Sampson and Smith
whose ethics and values are at best out of step with New Yorkers starving
for leadership and at worst downright criminal.

Additionally, it is an outrage that Senate Democratic Campaign Committee

Chairman Senator Michael Gianaris is refusing to return almost half a
million dollars in dirty campaign contributions from Senator Kruger to the
committee. Gianaris' response that it's too late because the money was
spent, rings hollow with every New Yorker who is repulsed by Kruger's
allegedly illegal fund raising tactics.
Fortunately, voters in 2010 returned Republicans to the Senate leadership
to help end our fiscal crisis, create an environment that will bring jobs back
to New York and, ultimately restore faith in State government."