Joseph Foley

Joseph Foley (Republican Party, Conservative Party) ran in a special election to the New York State Assembly to represent District 74. He lost in the special general election on February 3, 2026.

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Joseph W. Foley is a husband and father first, a small business owner alongside his wife and co-founder of Pedal House and Pure House, and a community focused leader committed to practical problem solving. He is running for public office because he believes today’s decisions must serve the next generation, balancing short term action with long term solutions.

Raised to lead by example and think independently, Joseph learned the value of accountability, hard work, and service early in life. From folding pizza boxes as a child, to working construction as a teenager, to cater waiter at Lincoln Center in his twenties, he learned that consistency and responsibility, not luck, are the foundation for improving one’s life and building lasting success.

He worked in finance for nearly 20 years, primarily in real estate, advising on public private partnerships and private real estate projects. His experience spans both the public and private sectors, giving him a practical understanding of how policy, investment, and community needs intersect.

Joseph attended the University of Pittsburgh transferred to New York University, graduating cum laude with a degree in economics and a concentration in policy and finance. He later earned a Master’s degree in Real Estate Development from Columbia University and taught real estate analytics as an adjunct professor at Fordham University.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Family, stability, and opportunity:

Owning a home, providing for yourself and your family, and building financial stability should be achievable goals, not distant dreams. Too many families are living paycheck to paycheck without the ability to save or plan for the future. I believe public policy should help create real opportunity so people can build secure lives, invest in their families, and enjoy life to its fullest, not just get by.Education and the next generation:

Education is the foundation of a strong community, and it must start with the basics during the school day and continue through meaningful after-school opportunities. Whether through sports, science, technology, or the arts, we need to uplift our education system and invest in programs that help students grow, discover their talents, and succeed. Our children are our next generation, and they deserve the best preparation possible.Safety, security, and accountability:

Everyone deserves to feel safe and secure in their community. We must focus on eliminating the conditions that make petty crime feel like the only option for some people. By supporting individuals, strengthening communities, and ensuring accountability, we can build a society where opportunity replaces desperation and a strong moral compass guides both personal responsibility and public policy.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

My background in real estate, finance, and small business has shaped the public policy areas I care most about. I believe strong communities are built when people are empowered to work together and uplift one another.

I believe we need to get back to the American Dream by making it achievable again for working families. That means creating real pathways to homeownership, economic stability, and long term opportunity so people who work hard can build secure lives and plan for the future.

I am passionate about policies that support responsible development, economic opportunity, and financial stability, while ensuring that growth strengthens communities and provides lasting benefits for future generations.