Assemblyman Ken Bankenbush says he is concerned that Governor Andrew Cuomo’s State of the State speech Wednesday failed to reassure him that North Country interests will get a fair shake in his plans.

“It’s time for Albany to step up and truly meet the needs of all New Yorkers, not just downstate interests,” Blankenbush said after the address

But he is not withpout hope.

“There has been a historical divide between upstate and downstate, and I believe that if we all work together we can bridge this gap for the benefit of Northern New York,” the 122nd District Republican said.

The rest of his statement follows:

“In my district, Northern New Yorkers are eager for policies that remove Albany’s interference and get us our fair share of investment and aid. The governor failed to commit to real unfunded mandate relief to help local governments and school districts keep their costs down so the North Country can remain affordable for families, farmers and businesses. Furthermore, state investment will not create lasting economic growth without Albany removing the layers of government red tape so job creators can focus their energies on expanding and hiring. Lastly, our students deserve a fair share of the state’s school aid and I am asking the governor to finally fix the school aid formula that so that rural communities have access to quality education.

“I work every day for a more balanced government that recognizes the needs of upstate New Yorkers, not just downstate special interests. When Albany puts the needs of residents over those of special interests, we will be able to reduce and cap state spending as well as foster a fair and ethical state government environment in Albany.”

Blankenbush's district includes most of St. Lawrence County south of St. Lawrence River townships.