William A. Barclay resigns as Assembly Republican leader; Ed Ra selected as minority leader

William A. Barclay submitted a written resignation as New York State Assembly minority leader that was read into the record on Feb. 9, 2026. The clerk read the letter informing the House that Barclay "hereby resign my position as New York State Assembly minority leader effective today, signed William A. Barclay." The Assembly then recorded a resolution of the minority members selecting Ed Ra as minority leader for the remainder of the legislative term.

Assemblymember Ed Ra addressed the chamber after his selection, thanking his conference for entrusting him with leadership. "It's an honor to be standing here today," Ra said, and he pledged to pursue a conference agenda focused on the cost of living, accountability, public safety, quality services and responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. He also praised his predecessor, saying Barclay served with "dignity, kindness [and] integrity."

Colleagues on the floor offered congratulations and reflected on collegial relationships across the chamber. Remarks from multiple members emphasized working across differences and continuing collaboration where possible. The selection of Ra followed the formal communication from the minority conference; the transcript records the change in leadership and Ra’s remarks but does not include a separate roll-call vote in the public floor record excerpt.

The chamber proceeded with its planned business on the consent calendar and other ceremonial resolutions after the leadership announcement. The minority conference scheduled follow-up and transition activity immediately after the floor session.