Michael Benedetto

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Benedetto earned his B.A. in history and education from Iona College and his M.A. in social studies and education.[1]

Benedetto is an adjunct instructor at Mercy College. His other professional experience includes being a coordinator of a special education unit for Public School 160, a teacher, and a staff member to multiple council members.

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Assembly Member Michael Benedetto is a lifelong resident of the East Bronx, born and raised in the Country Club community. He brings over thirty years of hands-on experience as a special education teacher in Co-op City and now serves as the Chair of the Assembly’s Education Committee. Benedetto has used this position to win full funding for New York City’s public schools as well as increased funding for special education programs and continues to fight for free state and city public colleges. He currently resides in Throggs Neck and is a proud father and grandfather.

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?

EducationPublic SafetySupporting Unions and rebuilding the middle class

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I was a 30-year educator in the New York City Public School System. I'm fighting now to make sure those same schools are receiving the funding they need and deserve so our children receive the best education possible.

My entire family lives in this district, so preserving our quality of life and keeping our neighborhood a safe area is incredibly important to me. Everyone deserves to live in safety and I've used my position to bring in funding for public safety programs including NYPD camera systems and CureViolence violence interruption programs that help divert young, high-risk people from dangerous situations. Lastly, I've voted for gun safety legislation including the recent package of legislation to raise the age on assault weapons, strengthen our red flag laws, and close the "boyfriend loophole" so domestic abusers cannot purchase a firearm.

District 82 represents the entire coast of the East Bronx so I understand how important addressing the climate crisis is for our communities. I'm voted consistently for legislation like the New York's Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (which I co-sponsored) and I'm a co-sponsoring the Climate and Community Investment Act that will bring billions of dollars for climate projects to our area. I also support an oyster reef tax credit for restaurants so they can support local efforts to grow and expand Oyster Reefs in our area.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

We are separate but equal branches of power. That said, I am pleased to enjoy a good working relationship with Governor Hochul.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Education and climate change.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

Yes! People should be involved in the community and work for the common good before they try to run for office. We need people who are rooted in the community and knowledgeable about the problems we face.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

Of course, I pride myself on my strong working relationships with my colleagues and I'm pleased to enjoy the support of our Speaker, Carl Heastie.

If you are not a current legislator, are there certain committees that you would want to be a part of?

Education, Rules, Veterans.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

Yes, while we should never compromise on our principles, we should try to advance the best legislation that can possibly pass into law.

Michael Benedetto did not complete [the profile publisher]'s 2020 Candidate Connection survey.