Caribbean American Brian Benjamin onwas sworn in as the next Lieutenant Governor of New York on Thursday.
The Harlem Democrat filled the post left open by his new boss and predecessor, Governor Kathy Hochul following the abrupt resignation of former governor Andrew Cuomo last month.
“New York State, I will do everything I can to make sure that those who are living at the margins, those who are struggling, those who are overlooked will have a seat at the table, and we will make sure that there’s fairness, accountability and good practical decision-making that governs our activities,” Benjamin said.
The 44-year-old, the son of a Guyanese mother and Jamaican father, had previously served as the New York State Senator for District 30 that encompasses Harlem, East Harlem, and the Upper West Side in Manhattan.
“I’ve found a person who knows what it’s like to struggle, to work hard, to make something of his life, and to now return his service to the community,” Hochul said during the swearing-in ceremony that was officiated by United States district judge, Analisa Torres.
“That is, my friends, the American dream, how someone who started out with little rose to where he is today, but now turns back and doesn’t think about himself. He thinks about how he can serve not just his Senatorial district, but now he’ll be helping me serve 20 million New Yorkers.
“It’s an extraordinary responsibility. I wouldn’t have asked you if I didn’t think you’re up for the task. And I know you are.”
