Republican gubernatorial candidate blames state climate laws, taxes on high utility bills

Republican Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman — who is running for New York governor — made a campaign stop in Albany on Monday, calling out the state’s energy policies, which he says are responsible for higher utility bills.

Blakeman claims heavy state regulations, including taxes and climate related mandates like New York’s goal for all electric buildings, are raising costs.

He says his plan includes expanding the state’s energy sources to increase competition, lower costs, and reduce pressure on the electric grid.

Governor Kathy Hochul has proposed an omnibus utility bill package to address rising rates. Back in October, the chairman of the Public Service Commission — which regulates utilities — said aging infrastructure is the main driver of high bills, not climate laws. He also said interest rates and inflation are contributing factors.

We spoke exclusively with Blakeman ahead of his gubernatorial announcement on “Power and Politics” last November. You can find that interview on the CBS 6 Albany YouTube channel and on the Power and Politics podcast.