Paul Tonko, U.S. Congressman representing New York’s 20th district since 2009, used his social media platform on August 8, 2025, to address recent actions by the Trump administration and highlight his ongoing efforts in support of affordable housing in Albany.
On August 8, Tonko criticized a policy move by the Trump administration regarding workers at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), stating in a post: “This move by the Trump administration is an attack on the dedicated workers who serve our veterans every day – one that will make it more difficult for the VA to fulfill its essential mission. This administration is no friend of labor or our veterans.” The congressman linked to additional information with his statement.
Later that day, Tonko shared details from a visit to a local organization focused on housing initiatives: “Today, I was proud to tour the facilities at the Affordable Housing Partnership in Albany to learn more about how they’re working to help first-time homebuyers and low-income residents of our Capital Region access the resources they need to find safe and secure housing.”
In a subsequent post made moments later, Tonko commented on federal program cuts affecting American families: “As the Trump administration attempts to eliminate federal programs that help American families afford shelter, essential repairs, and home energy upgrades, I’m committed to working directly with local organizations like AHP to ensure these critical services go uninterrupted.”
Tonko has represented New York’s 20th District in Congress since succeeding Michael McNulty in 2009. He previously served in the New York State Assembly from 1983 until 2007. Born in Amsterdam, New York in 1949 and currently residing there at age 73, Tonko earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Clarkson University in 1971.
