Schumer swears in Perry for 15th term
US Senate Majority Leader, Charles “Chuck” Schumer on Sunday swore in veteran Brooklyn Assemblyman, N. Nick Perry for his 15th term in the New York State Assembly.
“It’s a great day to be here for my dear friend, who helped me get elected to the Senate 22 years ago,” said Schumer before administering the oath during a truncated ceremony at the Church of God of East Flatbush.
The ceremony took place immediately following the 11:00 am. service at the church, and was presided over by Bishop R. C. Hugh Nelson.
“Nick earned his way the old-fashioned way,” Schumer told the ceremony, which included the Jamaican-born legislator’s wife, Joyce; their children, Novalie and Nickolas; and granddaughter, Justine. “It’s a great day for everybody, for Nick, for his family, for the 58th Assembly District, and for America.”
New York State Assembly Speaker, Carl Heastie and New York City Comptroller, Scott Stringer participated via video.
“I’m looking forward to working with you for many years to come,” said Stringer, a candidate for New York City mayor.
Mercedes Narcisse, a Haitian-born registered nurse and candidate for the 46th Council District in Brooklyn, also addressed the ceremony.
“Mr. Nick Perry, he’s a leader for justice, a leader who not just put his trust in publicity but in justice,” she emphasized. “Mr. Perry, thank you for the 15th term in the Assembly.”
The Rev. Pauline Gayle, Rabbi Joseph Potasnik and Pandit Bhara Bisesar provided additional in-person blessings; and vocalist Felina Backer gave a rousing rendition of “Order My Steps.”
After swearing-in, Perry gave a brief inaugural address, thanking Schumer, his constituents and the community for “taking some time to share this moment with me.
“I don’t know how many times I’ll do this…the 29th year serving in the Assembly,” he said.
“Thank you, senator, for taking time from your busy schedule,” he told Schumer. “I’m happy not only to have you as my senator but as the majority leader in the US Senate. New York is proud to have you as New York’s senator and America’s majority leader.
“My wife, we have been married for 49 years, and I have no regrets,” Perry added. “Serving in public office, I really need that (support).
“I thank the people of the 58th Assembly District for placing their trust in me and [for] re-electing me to represent them as their Member of Assembly, and to be their voice in Albany,” he continued. “I never take for granted this privilege, and I again express my pledge to serve selflessly, with honor, dignity and integrity.
“I will be available and responsive to protect and fight for the best interests of all my constituents,” the assemblyman said. “I work for you.”
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