MARTHA McHUGH
Fiscal Discipline

A Budget That Respects
The Taxpayer.

Albany has treated the state budget like a political wish list while families in the Capital Region absorb higher taxes, higher utility bills, and less confidence in what government delivers. Marti McHugh is calling for a budget that sets priorities, respects taxpayers, and accounts for every dollar spent.

The Cost of
Reckless Spending

When state spending grows faster than family budgets, residents across Albany, Schenectady, and Montgomery Counties feel it first. More mandates, more fees, and more pressure on household costs make it harder to stay, hire, and build a future here.

01

Runaway Spending

New York's budget has climbed from roughly $173 billion to a proposed $260 billion in just a few years, yet many families still see less affordability, less trust, and less value for what they pay.

02

Hidden Taxes & Fees

Albany often shifts the real cost of spending through mandates, fees, and utility-driven policy choices that show up later in monthly bills, local taxes, and higher operating costs for small businesses.

03

Lack of Oversight

Too much spending moves through budget deals and exemptions before taxpayers get a clear accounting. Marti supports restoring independent review so major contracts and commitments are examined before the money is gone.

Restoring Sanity to
New York's Finances

Marti McHugh's budget approach is straightforward: fund core responsibilities first, stop using the budget as a vehicle for backroom favors, and rebuild oversight before the next shortfall lands on taxpayers. Families already live within their means. State government should do the same.

Tie recurring spending growth to a sustainable benchmark instead of endless budget expansion.
Require independent audits and plain-language accounting for major agencies and programs.
Reject unfunded mandates that push costs onto local governments and property taxpayers.
Restore the Comptroller’s authority to review major contracts before taxpayer dollars are committed.

Help elect serious leadership on the budget.