Contact: Mike Fraser, office: (518) 455-3751; cell: (518) 859-8518
"Barbara Underwood's extensive background and experience make her an ideal candidate to replace Eric Schneiderman as attorney general. Ms. Underwood's experience as solicitor general, her remarkable legal expertise and impressive work ethic will serve her well while she conducts the important work of the attorney general's office, despite the unfortunate set of circumstances that brought us to this point.
The Legislature's decision to move forward with Ms. Underwood was made openly. The selection process was fundamentally transparent, something too often lacking in Albany's 'back room' culture. The public had an opportunity to watch candidates provide information, answer questions and defend their position on issues facing our state - a process we all benefit from.
I extend my congratulations to Ms. Underwood, who will serve as the state's first female attorney general, and look forward to working with her to improve the lives of New Yorkers by protecting their interests both in and out of the courtroom."