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Thursday, April 16, 2026 ~ Volume 138 ~ Issue Number 22 ~ $1.00
Overtime: State Budget Drags On By Matt Meduri The New York State Budget is delayed this year, which does not come as a surprise to many Albany insiders. The April 1 deadline is now two weeks in the rearview mirror. Monday saw the third extender passed as leaders in the Senate and Assembly continue negotiations with Governor Kathy Hochul (D-Hamburg). The last on-time budget in New York was 2019. The spring budgeting season falls on a particularly tense time in Albany, as Governor Hochul continues to spar with the liberal and socialist wings of her party, while paying mind to New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s (D-Astoria) progressive wish list - all while running for a second term. Meanwhile, Republicans brace for impact ahead of what many are predicting to be a nationally damaging midterm for the party. Continued on page 5
The State Capital Building in Albany (Credit - Matt Meduri)
Councilman Lohmann Arrested for Allegedly Assaulting Colleague By Matt Meduri Last Tuesday’s meeting of the Smithtown Town Council allegedly turned physical. Councilman and Deputy Supervisor Tom McCarthy (R-Nissequogue) says that Councilman Tom Lohmann (R-Smithtown) physically assaulted him during a closed-door, executive session meeting. Lohmann has been charged with Assault in the Third Degree, a misdemeanor. McCarthy says he is undergoing medical examination for injuries. He told Newsday that he was punched in the shoulder and jaw and now experiences pain from the attack. “I was the victim of a serious assault resulting in documented medical injuries. Medical evaluation supports that my injuries are consistent with trauma. I am seeking accountability and justice through proper legal channels,” McCarthy told The Messenger. Continued on page 10
Councilman Tom Lohmann (R-Smithtown) and Councilman Tom McCarthy (Credit - Matt Meduri)
FULL STORIES ON:
Head of the Harbor From the Supervisor’s The Mattera Report: Loses Dam Lawsuit Desk: Looking Forward NESE Ground Breaking Page 10
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