Will Barclay, leader of the New York State Assembly Minority Conference and representative of the 120th Assembly District, announced his decision not to seek re-election and to step down as Minority Leader in a series of posts on X.
On February 3, 2026, Barclay highlighted legislative efforts regarding child care policy, stating, “Our Conference has carefully crafted a child care plan, not only focused on delivering more affordable and accessible care, but also seeking ways to remove the existing barriers to those goals. Learn more about our plan at https://t.co/lNhmKpcjlh https://t.co/HUPohiwpw6”.
Two days later, on February 5, Barclay made public his intention to leave office: “After a great deal of reflection, I’ve decided I will not seek re-election to the 120th Assembly District and will step down as Minority Leader. Serving the people of Central NY & the Assembly Republican Conference has been the honor of a lifetime. My full statement is below. https://t.co/m06bnax0lf”.
On February 6, he expressed gratitude for his time in office: “I’m deeply grateful to my family, colleagues, and the people of Central New York for the trust you placed in me over 23 years. Representing you has been an honor I’ll carry with me always. https://t.co/xbA48kG1fA”.
Barclay’s tenure included leadership as head of the Assembly Minority Conference since January 2020 after unanimous election by his peers (official website). He represented Oswego County and parts of Cayuga and Jefferson counties (official website), focusing on upstate economic development and workers’ interests through committee work (official website). Barclay is affiliated with the Syracuse law firm Barclay Damon where he practiced business law (official website). He is also noted as an eighth-generation resident of Pulaski in Central New York (official website) and holds degrees from St. Lawrence University and Syracuse University College of Law (official biography).
Barclay’s legislative career was marked by advocacy for policies aimed at strengthening upstate New York’s economy through various assembly committees (official website).
