Friday, March 21, 2025
New York State Assemblywoman Judy Griffin felt that hosting another swearing-in ceremony seemed “very repetitive,” having already taken her oath of office in 2019. Instead, she opted for a different approach—one that reaffirmed her commitment to serving the constituents of the 21st Assembly District.
A packed crowd gathered at the New York Elks Lodge No. 1 in Lynbrook on Sunday, Jan. 27, to celebrate her return to Albany. Among those in attendance were U.S. Rep. Laura Gillen, State Senator Siela Bynoe, Legislator Scott Davis, Legislator Seth Koslow, and Freeport Deputy Mayor Jorge Martinez.
Destiny House Christian Center, of Freeport, Pastor Pepper Martin led the invocation, while Pastor Joseph Browne offered the closing prayer.
Laura Mallay, president of the South Hempstead Civic Association was also in attendance.
“It has been my pleasure to dive in and begin representing AD21 again. I was eager to pick up where I left off and come back even stronger with a refreshed perspective.” Griffin said. “That’s why it was important to me to have an event like this — where we can eat, drink some coffee and appreciate one another. Together, we can tackle challenges head-on and create new opportunities for our community.”
“I’m grateful for the meaningful remarks of my good friends, Kevin Mullick, Matty Aracich and Leslie Rose. When I thought of doing this, I asked the three of them to speak, because they represent what matters most—public safety, organized labor, career opportunity and education. These are top priorities for all of us,” Griffin said.
“Throughout my time in office, I’ve appreciated their encouragement, guidance, and support,” Griffin continued. “It was helpful to have all of them championing me, always at my side, whether in office or out of office, and in the campaign to get back to office.”
Each of the keynote speakers emphasized Griffin’s dedication to public service and her commitment to supporting education, labor, and public safety. She also announced her sponsorship of a bill for peer support for police officers statewide, which was initiated by the Nassau County PBA.
“Mental health is a huge issue for everybody, but it is really a serious issue for police officers throughout Long Island, Nassau County and our state,” Griffin said. “I was really proud to take on this bill and I am honored to champion it and get it passed.”
The ceremony included a performance of the national anthem by Heather Cuevas and Sophia Bracco of Rockville Centre, along with participation from Malverne Girl Scout Troops 2237 and 2562.
Griffin took her official oath alongside her family, with Mike Caplice of New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s office officiating.
Following the oath, she expressed gratitude to those who supported her and introduced her staff, acknowledging their dedication.
“My victory wasn’t just my victory, it was a victory for all of us,” Griffin said. “This victory reflects our shared vision for a more prosperous, safer, cleaner and affordable Long Island.”
“It isn’t easy to make a comeback, but your breadth of support, volunteerism, and endorsements helped pave the way,” she continued. “This seat isn’t my seat, I just have the honor and privilege of representing all of you.”
“I pledge to represent all constituents, embrace our diversity and work tirelessly to address the pressing issues that matter most to our district. I am committed to ensuring that Long Island remains a great place to live, work, raise a family and even retire.”
