Brian
Benjamin was sworn in as the new lieutenant governor of New York on
Thursday.
Gov. Kathy Hochul appointed Benjamin after she assumed her new role as governor
of New York in August. He had previously represented Harlem in the state
Senate.
Gov. Hochul says his experience and work in the local New York communities
is what made him stand out among the other candidates.
"That’s why I’ve found a person who knows what it’s like to struggle, to work
hard, to make something of his life and now return his service to the
community,” says the governor. “It’s an extraordinary
responsibility. I wouldn't have asked you if I didn’t think you were up for the
task, and I know you are.”
The 78th lieutenant governor of New York is also a former
investment banker who worked with former President Barack Obama’s National Finance
Committee.