What an exciting election we have in New York this year. In this corner, we have a governor who may be indicted weeks before the election. Or maybe during the weeks after it.

Federal prosecutor Preet Bharara loves to hint about this. But when it comes to deciding, he is about as decisive as the governor is about fracking.

Meanwhile, the prosecutor also hints of other indictments — of politicians. Yes, he suggests some of our politicians are crooks. This is like suggesting that some Alcoholics Anonymous members drink.

Do you know who is running for the Democrats for lieutenant governor? You should know who the candidate is. It is your civic duty. There is always a chance she will become the governor.

How about Cuomo’s opponent for governor? Here is a good campaign slogan for him: “Who on Earth is Running Against Cuomo for Governor?” That has a nice ring to it, doesn’t it?

My friends in the publicity industry tell me that it may work. It might entice some voters to find out before the election. And it would be a better slogan than Cuomo’s. His is “Not Indicted Yet.”

All right, I have given you extra time to come up with the name of his opponent for governor. Before we get to it, here is your chance for triple points. Name the opponent’s running mate. Who is running for lieutenant governor on the Republican ticket? That is a tough one, isn’t it?

I have only been playing around here. I actually went to the state Republican Convention this year. On the last night, the chair spoke to the assembled delegates about the nomination for the governorship.

“Ladies and … ! Does anyone want to run for governor? Anyone? Speak up please. 
“From your silence I have to assume that in this year’s election we will not have a candidate. Wait, wait, I see a hand waving from the back of the room. There is a hand waving from behind the Budweiser bunting.

“What’s that sir? Speak up, speak up. You are willing … you are willing to run for governor on the Republican ticket? Wow, that is a relief. What is your name, sir? Louder please, sir. Your name is … Rob, from Astoria?

“That’s good. I think Astoria is in New York state. Even if it’s not … Well, ladies and gentlemen, we have a candidate. All those in favor of Rob of Astoria carrying the Republican banner in … All those in favor of Rob from Astoria carrying the Republican banner in this year’s election …

“Well, Rob, you’re our man. Good luck, sir.”

“Now for the next order of business, our door prize. Yes, the highlight of the convention. I will just ask former Senator Johnson, who is out on parole, to draw the winning ticket.”

“Wait for it. Our winner is Christopher Moss. Hey Chris, you win two tickets to the Demolition Derby at next year’s State Fair.

“And, sir, come on down here! We have another surprise for you. You, sir! You get to be our candidate for lieutenant governor Isn’t that cool? You get to be the running mate of Rob from Astoria. He’s the guy in the rear. The guy behind the Budweiser bunting. I’m sure he is looking forward to knowing you too, sir. 

From Tom…as in Morgan.

Tom Morgan writes about political, financial, and other subjects from his home near Oneonta, in addition to his radio shows and TV show. For more information about him, visit his website at www.tomasinmorgan.com

It is important to remember that we are a country of immigrants and that all people should have the opportunity for a better life. Our history and heritage derives from the millions who have immigrated to the United States and become U.S. citizens.

Each year, naturalization ceremonies are held throughout the U.S. in which foreign citizens that meet the eligibility requirements for citizenship officially become citizens of the United States of America.

Earlier in the year, at a naturalization ceremony in Syracuse, 42 individuals from 24 different countries became U.S. citizens. One man who participated in the ceremony and was granted citizenship told local reporters he pursued citizenship for five years. In the interview, it was clear that he was proud of what he accomplished. Obtaining citizenship can be a long path for many immigrants, but, the rewards of becoming a citizen make it well worth it.

I bring this up because lately there has been much discussion on illegal immigration in our country — and rightfully so. Generally, immigration matters fall under the jurisdiction of the federal government. However, a common trend has emerged where state legislators are trying to influence immigration policy and grant rights and privileges reserved for U.S. citizens to illegal immigrants. Several years ago, former Gov. Eliot Spitzer proposed allowing illegal immigrants the right to obtain a New York State driver’s license. This proposal drew ire from many. Fortunately, it was never implemented.

Another bill is the Dream Act. This bill would allow illegal immigrants the opportunity to receive financial aid under New York’s college tuition and scholarship program. The concern is that by allowing those who are not legally residing in New York to receive tuition assistance, there will be less funding available for those who are New York citizens. This is especially concerning as the pool of applicants for New York’s tuition-assistance program rises along with the costs of attending college. Rather than implementing the Dream Act, a better solution would be to allow the creation of a private fund that could provide financial aid to illegal-immigrant children without using tax dollars.

Additionally, I want to make you aware of the radical proposal, called the “New York is Home Act.” Proposed by two New York City legislators, this bill attempts to bypass federal immigration policy by creating “state citizenship.” Under their plan, illegal immigrants would have voting rights and the ability to run for public office. They could also obtain a driver’s license, receive financial aid through the state, and obtain a professional license (this could include licenses for professions such as a doctor, mental-health counselor, certified public accountant, and other professions).

The criteria for becoming a New York State citizen is fairly nonexistent and it appears that almost any illegal immigrant would be eligible for “state citizenship.” One of the sponsors of the bill estimates that 3 million illegal immigrants would be eligible for the newly created citizenship pathway. This legislation is so broad it essentially does away with any requirements to become a citizen. There are good reasons why we have immigration laws and why immigration policy should be set by the federal government. National security would be on the top of that list. States should not impose what they believe should be naturalization requirements, or as in this case, almost no requirement.

In two weeks, another group of proud immigrants hailing from around the world will gather at a naturalization ceremony in Syracuse to become our newest American citizens. The hard work and dedication these individuals have shown will be rewarded with the greatest gift that we could offer to citizens — freedom. We should celebrate our immigrant heritage. We should not pass state laws that make a mockery out of U.S. citizenship.

William (Will) A. Barclay is the Republican representative of the 120th New York Assembly District, which encompasses most of Oswego County, including the cities of Oswego and Fulton, as well as the town of Lysander in Onondaga County and town of Ellisburg in Jefferson County. Contact him at barclaw@assembly.state.ny.us, or (315) 598-5185.