Emily Gallagher’s shoplifting defense: Letters to the Editor — Aug. 19, 2026

NY Post readers discuss Assemblywoman Emily Gallagher’s claim that shoplifters have a “biological need” to steal.

A New York state socialist lawmaker's framing of retail theft of items like soap being because of a "biological need" was met with swift blowback.

A socialist lawmaker in New York City has claimed "biological need" gives shoplifters the right to steal from store shelves.

A socialist member of the New York state Assembly said Thursday that people who steal basic necessities such as toothpaste and soap should not be arrested, arguing that prosecuting such theft punishes people for having a “biological need.” Assemblywoman Emily Gallagher, who represents Greenpoint, Williamsburg and neigh