Albany, N.Y. - State Senate Minority leader John Flanigan who represents the 2nd district of N.Y., is stepping down briefly as minority leader.
In a press release, Flanigan said: " I recognized the need to seek some additional help to overcome my battle with alcohol dependency".
Flanigan named Joe Griffo as Deputy Minority Leader.
Griffo represents the 47th district that covers, Lewis county most of Oneida and St Lawrence County.
Flanigan says his absence should be short but is necessary for his well being. He went on to say in the release...
"No man or woman is perfect, but it does not mean we all shouldn't strive for continuous and daily improvement. I will attempt to do that with every fiber in my body. I thank my friends and colleagues for their patience, for their love, and for their understanding, and am very much looking forward to the upcoming legislative session. This brief period of time away is necessary for my overall well-being, but will in no way impact my ability to serve my conference or my constituents."
(Photo provided)