We are deeply saddened by the guilty verdict returned Monday against former New York State Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver for violations of the federal “honest services” law.
Not only has he been a fierce advocate for New York City in Albany, for four decades he was the most prolific lawmaker in the country when it came to protecting the right to the free exercise of religion.
With respect to our Jewish community, he was responsible for a myriad of laws — in the areas of public and private employment, public health, life and death issues, education, professional licensing, voting, and more — that provided accommodations for our special religion-based needs. Indeed, his work over the years has dramatically transformed the way we are able to live our lives. His departure from public life creates a great void.
Mr. Silver has said he intends to vigorously pursue all legal avenues to secure his vindication and we wish him well in that effort. He has earned the prayers and best wishes of all of us in his time of travail.