State assemblyman to be deployed overseas
New York State Assembly member Brian Maher, who represents the 101st district across Delaware, Orange, Otsego, and Ulster counties, announced that he has been called to active duty and will be deployed overseas “in a designated combat area for a period of nine months.”
On Thursday, Maher sent a letter to his more than 138,000 constituents announcing his deployment with the Navy Reserve, saying it will be difficult to be away from the work and the community, especially his wife and three kids.
“I understand the gravity of this absence, and I want to assure you that my commitment to our district remains unwavering,” Maher wrote. “During my deployment, my dedicated and talented staff will continue to represent the 101st Assembly District with passion and diligence. We have hired additional members to our team to increase our presence in one of the largest Assembly Districts in New York State.”
Maher enlisted in the Navy Reserve in July of 2018 and currently ranks as a Petty Officer Second Class Logistics Specialist, serving exclusively with expeditionary warfare units and training alongside special operators, Seabees and other combat-ready units in field operations, “and now it is time to utilize that training in service to my country,” he said.
Maher expects to return from service next year, and intends to run for re-election in 2026.
Read the full letter below:
Dear Residents of the 101st Assembly District:
I hope this letter finds you and your loved ones well. As your Assembly Member, it has been the honor of my life to serve the communities and families of our district. Today, I write to share important news regarding my service in a different capacity over the months ahead.
As a proud member of the United States Navy Reserve, I have been called to active duty and will be deployed overseas in a designated combat area for a period of nine months. My rollout date is later this month. I understand the gravity of this absence, and I want to assure you that my commitment to our district remains unwavering.
During my deployment, my dedicated and talented staff will continue to represent the 101st Assembly District with passion and diligence. We have hired additional members to our team to increase our presence in one of the largest Assembly Districts in New York State. My team will be available to assist with any issues, concerns, or needs that may arise, and they will act as your direct line to the resources and support you deserve. I am confident in their ability to advocate for your interests and maintain the high standards of service that define our office.
My Chief of Staff, Meghan Hurlburt, and Director of Operations, Kristin Mulligan, both worked alongside me in the office of NYS Senator Bill Larkin. When we worked for Col. Larkin, a decorated World War II and Korean War combat veteran, he taught us how to serve our community, and he taught me the value and importance of serving one’s nation. The 101st District is in good hands with Meghan, Kristin, and our entire team.
Though my physical presence will be missed, I will continue to advocate for the issues that matter most to our families and communities from afar. I remain deeply connected to the work we have started together—supporting local businesses; tackling the energy, utility, housing, and affordability crisis; advocating for safer prisons; advocating for investments in childcare, human services, and for our direct service professionals; strengthening our children’s education, and ensuring the safety and well-being of every resident.
When I return home in 2026, I will be ready to resume my full responsibilities and continue the work we have begun. Serving both our district and our nation is an immense privilege, and I appreciate your support, understanding, and encouragement during this time.
If I could be so bold as to ask for one thing, please keep me, my wife, Becky, and our three children, Mia, Isla, and Benjamin, in your thoughts and prayers. I will miss them with every fiber of my being, and, as a man of faith, it would mean a great deal to me personally.
Thank you for your trust, your resilience, and your commitment to making the 101st Assembly District a wonderful place to live. Please do not hesitate to reach out to my staff for any assistance and know that I am with you in spirit and service, always. God Bless.
Yours In Service,
Brian M. Maher
New York State Assemblyman, 101st District
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