Assembly GOP Leader Will Barclay to step down, retire at end of term

Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay, a central New York Republican, will step down from his post in the coming days and will not seek reelection this fall, he announced Thursday.

Barclay, of Pulaski, has served as the leader of the Assembly Republican conference since 2020 and has held his seat in Assembly District 120 since 2003.

“After a great deal of consideration, I have decided that I will not seek reelection,” Barclay said in a statement. “I intend to step down as minority leader in the coming days, allowing for a smooth transition to new leadership early in the legislative session. This is the right time for me to move on. I hold the deepest respect for this institution and will always be profoundly appreciative of the trust Assembly Republicans placed in me to serve as minority leader.”

Assembly Republicans will meet as a conference to hold an election for the next leader. The election could be held as soon as next week, sources said.

"Serving the people of Central NY & the Assembly Republican Conference has been the honor of a lifetime,” Barclay added. “This was not a decision that came easily.”

Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie released a sentimental statement at the news of Barclay’s retirement. The two are known for having a friendly bipartisan relationship.

“I’m normally happy when a Republican leaves office, but Minority Leader Will Barclay is a distinct exception to that rule,” Heastie said. “In all seriousness, he has been a good friend and partner in government. Even when we disagreed on policy, I knew we could always work together with respect and collegiality. I wish him all the best."