There’s really no political reason for Democrats in state government to listen to criticism from outside sources who might have alternative thoughts on the state’s budget priorities and how to raise revenue to offset new spending and growing deficits.

After all, Democrats hold all four statewide elected offices (governor, lieutenant governor, comptroller and attorney general), and have dominant majorities in the Legislature.

They also hold a strong political advantage among voters, with Democrats making up 47.4% of enrolled voters compared to 22.8% for Republicans.

Essentially, Democrats can roll through any budget and any legislation they want without fear of political consequences.

That might be great for Democrats and their supporters, but is it necessarily what’s best for all 19.8 million New Yorkers they represent?

Gov. Kathy Hochul’s proposed $260 billion election-year budget, up $6 billion........

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