Profiles of Newly-Elected State Legislators
December 11th, 2018
Democrat Jen Metzger was elected to replace Republican State Senator John Bonacic, who did not run for re-election. Metzger will represent the 42nd Senate District, which includes parts of Orange, Ulster and Delaware counties, and all of Sullivan County. Most recently, she founded and served as Director of Citizens for Local Power, which helps communities in the Mid-Hudson Region transition to a locally-based, clean energy economy. Her legislative priorities include fully funded schools; property tax relief; healthcare for all; and a statewide clean energy economy that creates good local jobs.
Republican Robert Smullen was elected to the Assembly seat formerly held by Republican Marc Butler, who did not run for re-election. He will represent 118th Assembly District, which includes all or parts of Herkimer, Fulton, Oneida, Hamilton and St. Lawrence counties. Smullen retired from the Marine Corps in 2015 after serving 24 years. He served three combat tours in Afghanistan and as executive director of the Hudson River-Black River Regulating District. His legislative priorities include reducing the tax burden; eliminating unfunded mandates; and reducing state regulations.
Democrat Jamie Romeo will replace fellow Democrat Joe Morelle, who was elected to Congress. She will represent the 136th Assembly District, which includes Irondequoit, Brighton, and the east side of Rochester. She previously served as executive and chairwoman of the Monroe County Democratic Committee, and as chief of staff for State Senator Ted O’Brien. Her legislative priorities include sustainable economic development; ensuring funding for public schools; and universal healthcare.