Ball Announces Career Plans After Current Term is Finished
In May, when New York State Senator Greg Ball announced he was leaving public life after his current term expired at the end of this year, the only question left was what would be next for the controversial political figure.
Now, six months later, residents within the 40th senate district, which Ball has represented the past four years, have their answer.
Ball announced Monday he has co-founded Blackstone Global LLC, a multifaceted technology, political consulting, marketing and investments company and is set to serve as CEO of the business. Joining him in the new venture include two of his state senate aides Colin Schmitt, who will serve as president of the business and Mahopac resident Joe Bachmeier, who will be the Chief Marketing Officer.
Charlie Miles, who Ball knew from his time in the Air Force Academy, is the Chief Financial Officer.
The company is based in Austin, Chicago and New York. Ball said during an interview he would be leaving New York to primarily live in Texas once his current term ends on Dec. 31.
“I will be the first in line on January 1 to get a Texas driver’s license,” Ball said. “And an AR-15.”
In a press release issued Monday, Blackstone Global described Ball as a “global leader” who has assembled a team that has “executed high-value projects and deliverables against all odds.” The press release went on to state Ball has won 7 elections in 8 years, proving his unconventional strategies result in success.
“Using the skill sets that I have developed and perfected in public service, private business, and my military career,” Ball said in a statement. “I decided to launch a truly innovative technology, political consulting, and marketing venture.”
Ball said in an interview he wanted to build something he could be proud of and noted he has been successful in the private sector before. Before running for office, Ball was the vice president of an international real estate company. Once elected, Ball followed through on a campaign promise that he would give up all outside income and solely focus serving the public
The press release noted Blackstone has already developed core operations and executed deals on four continents. Recent investments include existing three technology companies.
Ball said this past summer, staying out of the political fray and not worrying about campaigning for his own reelection, was the “best summer I’ve had in about ten years.” As the co-chair of the Senate Republican Campaign Committee, Ball said it was great working behind the scenes for certain Republicans.
“I look forward to being engaged in these races behind the scenes and working to preserve a (Republican) majority in New York,” Ball said. But not doing it as the guy in the spotlight.”
