Issues

Public Safety:

Government's first priority is to ensure the safety and security of its citizens. I believe government must protect our communities from criminals and respond to threats and acts of terrorism. Law enforcements officials must be provided with the tools necessary to do their jobs safely and efficiently.

Jobs and the Economy:

Today, New Yorkers are struggling to make ends meet. That is why job creation is my number one priority. Our economy will not grow unless the government creates jobs. I know that the backbone of our economy is the small businesses and I will work to increase public-private partnerships to help small businesses grow and create new jobs in our community. I will fight to cut government red-tape that impedes job-growth and will fight to pass tax cuts for small business that are looking to expand.

Education:

I know first hand that education equals better opportunities. As Assemblyman, I will work to reduce school overcrowding and fund after-school activities. As a father of five children, I am well aware of the economic burden paying for school. I will champion the fight to provide more educational funding for families of lower incomes. Additionally, I will make private school education more affordable by allowing lower income families vouchers and tuition tax credits.

Taxes:

As Assemblyman, I will be a powerful voice for middle-class taxpayers and will work to reduce our tax burden. I will fight to reduce government waste and bureaucracy, which in turn will reduce taxes.

Government Reform:

Good government is open and accountable to its constituents. The history of Albany has been full of corruption and broken promises. Ben believes our politicians must work to win back the trust of the people of New York. As Assemblyman, I will fight for more accountability, full disclosure, comprehensive campaign finance reform, increased penalties for public corruption, and the stripping of public pensions for elected officials who are convicted of wrongdoing.

Environment:

As State Assemblyman, I champion the fight to protect our environment, working to protect our parts and open spaces for future generations.

Health:

I will work to improve access to healthcare for all citizens. I will fight against unnecessary cuts to vital healthcare programs and work to decrease healthcare cost and improve its quality.

Transportation:

I will fight to assure that residents of South Brooklyn will be provided with efficient public transportation and safe roads. I will fight against tolls on East River Bridges and will work to return existing toll roads and bridges to reasonable rates. Improving the New York transportation system is one of my most important issues.


Latest News

September 6, 2012

Councilman Michael Nelson Endorses "Dream Team" Akselrod and Kagan
Today New York City Councilman Michael Nelson endorsed Ben Akselrod for the NYS Assembly, and Ari Kagan for District Leader in the upcoming election on September 13. ...

August 29, 2012

No debates set before Sept. 13 primary
Democratic Assemblyman Steven Cymbrowtiz is afraid to debate, the legislator's challenger claimed this week as he lashed out against the six-term incumbent for not participating in a primary face off so he can attend a Russian film festival instead. ...

August 22, 2012

Cymbrowitz Refusal to Debate Hurts Our Community
Assemblyman Cymbrowitz waited until the very last minute to inform the sponsors of a proposed Jewish Press debate that he would not participate. His opponent Ben Akselrod said that, "Cymbrowitz is disrespecting our community by not giving the voters of his district a chance to judge both candidates on their positions of major issues facing the residents of his district." ...

August 19, 2012

Public Wi-Fi Coming to South Brooklyn
Assembly Candidate Ben Akselrod voiced his support for the expansion of free Wi-Fi services in south Brooklyn. The Parks Department announced plans to add free internet to the Coney Island and Brighton Boardwalk area, Manhattan Beach as well as some other parts of southern Brooklyn. ...

August 16, 2012

The Masbia Soup Kitchen
Yesterday, Ben Akselrod volunteered his time at the Masbia Soup Kitchen, preparing meals for needy families in the community. Ben encourages others to perform acts of chesed and kindness as every small act goes a long way. ...