Flags across state buildings in New York will be flown at half-staff, as per the direction of Governor Kathy Hochul, to pay tribute to the late former Representative John LaFalce. This act of commemoration is set for today, from sunrise to sunset.
Hochul, who had prior connections with LaFalce, reflected on his influence on her career. “John LaFalce had a profound influence on my early career, recruiting me from a large DC firm to serve as his Legislative Counsel on Capitol Hill and putting me on the path to a lifetime of public service,” Governor Hochul said. She praised LaFalce for his commitment to his district and the lasting impact of his efforts in Western New York, as mentioned by the Governor's office.
LaFalce served New York in various capacities, starting with his election to the New York State Senate in 1971, followed by a move to the State Assembly in 1973. His career in politics extended to the national stage, where he represented three different districts in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1975 until 2003.
The Governor's office shared sentiments about LaFalce's dedication to public service, “A true champion for Western New York, John cared deeply about his constituents and worked tirelessly to bring transformative projects home to the district he loved. My thoughts are with his wife Pat, his son Martin, and all who loved him.”
