Was it fate or free will? Each legislative session welcomes a new crop of state lawmakers, and each new lawmaker has a different take on what forces brought them here. 

Redistricting made for a complex prelude to the election, putting Democrats on defense from Republicans vying to gain majority control of the state Legislature. While the odds were against Republicans, candidates mainly focused on crime and pocketbook issues to gain the support of voters. Several Republican challengers – including Steve Rhoads, Michael Novakhov, Ed Flood and Bill Weber – were successful in unseating Democratic incumbents. Lester Chang also bested Assembly Member Peter Abbate for Assembly District 49. However, questions about Chang’s residency in Brooklyn have been raised and the Assembly Judiciary Committee will hold a hearing to review Chang’s eligibility to hold the seat.

In the end, Democrats prevailed – keeping majority control of both chambers. Democratic Socialists of America-backed candidates Kristen Gonzalez and Sarahana Shrestha secured wins. Iwen Chu was elected to represent the 17th state Senate District, making Chu the first Asian woman to serve in the Senate and the first person to represent the first Asian-majority district. The upper chamber’s diversity was also expanded with the election of Lea Webb to represent the 52nd Senate District. Webb was previously the first Black person to serve on Binghamton’s City Council.

This is also a year for transitions. Former state lawmakers Monica Martinez, Jack Martins and Brian Curran will all make their return to the Legislature. Nathalia Fernandez, Jake Ashby and Mark Walczyk are moving on from the Assembly to serve in the state Senate. There are still two uncalled races, one in the state Senate and one in the Assembly. In the 50th state Senate District in the Finger Lakes region, incumbent Democrat John Mannion was still trying to fend off Republican Rebecca Shiroff. Another race, between incumbent Democrat Stacey Pheffer Amato and Republican Tom Sullivan for Assembly District 23 in Queens, was still up in the air after a mandatory recount and legal proceedings.

With the 2023 legislative session quickly approaching, City & State sent a questionnaire to the freshman lawmakers to see what’s in the cards for their future in Albany. The lawmakers discussed their priorities for their first session, the qualities that differentiate them from their predecessors and which patronus they connect with.

The responses have been edited for clarity.

State Senate

Dean Murray, Republican

State Senate District 3 (Long Island)

@DeanMurray4NY

Previous job(s): Small-business owner (advertising agency)

What is your patronus? A Potcake dog

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? East Patchogue

What’s one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? To stop the pro-criminal, anti-law enforcement agenda that is emanating from Albany

Who do you look up to? Volunteers. I admire those who donate their time and energy for the sole purpose of helping others, while expecting nothing but satisfaction in return.

What is your favorite place in New York? While upstate is beautiful and the city can be so much fun ... there is no beating Long Island

Where does upstate New York begin? The other side of the Tappan Zee, oops, I mean the Mario ... wait, no, I mean the Tappan Zee Bridge.

Do you believe in fate or free will? I believe that exercising your free will helps to determine your fate

Monica Martinez, Democrat

State Senate District 4 (Long Island)

@NYSSenatorMRM

Previous job(s): Deputy regional director, Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation; State senator; Suffolk County legislator; Assistant principal and teacher in the Brentwood School District

What is your patronus? Lion

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Hamlet of Brentwood/Town of Islip

What’s one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? As a returning senator, I would like to continue working on some of the priorities which were left on pause including bringing more funds to Long Island schools, securing more funding for infrastructure, and investing in our parks. I’m going back to Albany to bring back Long Island’s fair share.

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? As a member of the Democratic caucus which controls the Senate, I’ll be able to give Suffolk County a voice at the negotiating table which translates into direct benefits to all Suffolk residents. I’ll be the representative of Suffolk County in the majority which is an honor but also a big responsibility to represent the largest county in the state outside of New York City.

Who do you look up to? My mother

What is your favorite place in New York? Long Island beaches

Where does upstate New York begin? As a true Long Islander, I believe upstate starts as soon as I cross the Tappan Zee Bridge. But, after attending Binghamton University, it may be more North!!

Do you believe in fate or free will? I believe in fate.

Steven Rhoads, Republican

State Senate District 5 (Long Island)

@RhoadsforSenate

Previous job(s): I've served as a Nassau County legislator since 2015 and work in private practice as an attorney.

What is your patronus? It's been a while since I've read Harry Potter, but I'd have to say a stag.

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Bellmore

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? Investing in police and restoring law and order. We must ensure law enforcement has the resources they need to protect our communities amid crime spikes and rollback laws that release dangerous thugs from jail.

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? I will never give into the pressures of legislative leaders who previously put criminals first in their policy agenda.

Who do you look up to? The late Stephen Siller. A firefighter assigned to Brooklyn’s Squad 1, Stephen was off duty when he heard the call of an emergency come in on 9/11. He rushed to Squad 1 to get his gear and drove his truck to the already closed Brooklyn Battery Tunnel. That didn't stop him. Stephen strapped 60 lbs. of gear to his back and ran through the tunnel to the Twin Towers, where he gave up his life to save others. As a firefighter and as a youth minister, I can't think of a better example of service and sacrifice.

What is your favorite place in New York? Citi Field. My wife and I are diehard Mets fans and never miss a game.

Where does upstate New York begin? When I commuted to SUNY Albany from Long Island for college, I remember it feeling like upstate when the traffic stopped, speed limit jumped, and mountains came into view.

Do you believe in fate or free will? Great question. As a youth minister, I do believe that God has a plan for each of us, but it is up to us to decide to allow our gifts and talents to be used to put that plan into action.

Jack Martins, Republican

State Senate District 7 (Long Island)

@jackmartinsny

Previous job(s): Mayor, village of Mineola 2003-2010; State senator, 7th District 2011-2016; State Independent Redistricting Commission 2021-2022; Harris Beach PLLC, partner

What is your patronus? Bison 

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Old Westbury

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? Work with my colleagues to restore civil discourse, understanding that government works best when we work together. All other solutions including addressing criminal justice reforms, limiting state spending, protecting the environment, ensuring that every child has access to a quality education, and removing barriers to small business success become more likely when there is open, civil dialogue.

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? We are all the product of our experiences. Growing up in an immigrant household and community, my family, my background in the private sector and government, my volunteer activities on behalf of various charities and not for profits, and a myriad of other factors have all contributed to who I am.

Who do you look up to? Theodore Roosevelt

What is your favorite place in New York? The north shore of Nassau County.

Where does upstate New York begin? Dutchess County – where Metro North/MTA ends

Do you believe in fate or free will? Free will

Patricia M. Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Republican

State Senate District 9 (Long Island)

@patricia4senate

Previous job(s): I'm a practicing attorney for 27 years having worked at Deloitte & Touche LLP and Morgan Lewis & Bockius LLP before becoming partners with my father and starting Canzoneri & Canzoneri LLP 21 years ago. I am also a trustee in the village of Malverne.

What is your patronus? My two cocker spaniels – Biscuit and Oreo

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Malverne

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? Restoring judicial discretion when it comes to setting bail. Judges must have the ability to keep dangerous criminals behind bars if they threaten our community's safety. If we don't feel safe in our communities, we can't do anything else.

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? It's hard to know right now since I am still learning about the role of a state senator. I will say that as a former police commissioner, protecting our families and public safety will always be my top priority.

Who do you look up to? My father. He was the child of immigrants and went to kindergarten speaking only Italian. He is an American success story. He stayed in school while working at my grandfather's shoe repair shop, attended the Coast Guard Academy, served his country and eventually had his own law firm and became mayor of our village. 

What is your favorite place in New York? It's tough to pick one place. I love our spectacular Long Island beaches but my hometown of Malverne is very special . There's just no place like our little village of one square mile.

Where does upstate New York begin? If you can't easily commute to New York City, you're upstate – so my vote is for Poughkeepsie.

Do you believe in fate or free will? Free will. I believe God gives us opportunities to be successful. However, it is up to us to work hard and utilize our gifts and talents in service to others and to make our world a better place. 

Iwen Chu, Democrat

State Senate District 17 (Brooklyn)

@Iwen4NY

Previous job(s): Chief of staff at Assembly Member Peter Abbate Jr.'s office

What is your patronus? Horse, same as my Zodiac sign

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Dyker Heights, Brooklyn

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? Be a strong security net for southern Brooklyn families by providing language support, resources and multicultural programs.

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? It's a new district. Honor to be the first one who got elected.

Who do you look up to? Assembly Member Peter Abbate Jr. My political mentor and my Italian father.

What is your favorite place in New York? Brooklyn. Love at the first sight.

Where does upstate New York begin? North of New York City

Do you believe in fate or free will? Free will and strong will

Jessica Scarcella-Spanton, Democrat

State Senate District 23 (Brooklyn and Staten Island)

@jess_scarcella

Previous job(s): Assistant director of government and community relations, MTA; Director of operations, state Sen. Diane Savino

What is your Patronus? Well, I took a BuzzFeed quiz and got an otter (the same as Hermione Granger!)

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? West Brighton, Staten Island

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? Ease the burden of inflation by reducing property taxes and increasing eligibility for programs such as SCRIE/DRIE/SCHE/DHE.

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? Sen. Savino and I come from a different set of life experiences. I am the mom of two and throughout both my pregnancies, I developed a deep interest and passion for maternal health, something you will see me diving into in the upcoming session. 

My brother, Tommy, has a physical disability. There are so many things we can do to improve the lives of people living with disabilities, from making transit more accessible to insurance issues and everything in between. Making life easier for those with disabilities is a major priority for me. 

Moreover, you'll probably find her Twitter more entertaining than mine ever will be!

Who do you look up to? I have been lucky enough to learn from so many wonderful people throughout the years, but it was truly Sen. Savino who gave me the confidence I needed to run for office. I was privileged to have a front seat to the work she has done, including ensuring that insurance companies cover IVF, something that benefits countless families in New York, the work she has done on behalf of the labor movement and the passion she has for the welfare of children and families.

She often encouraged me to run for office, something I never saw myself doing. As a staffer, I always felt comfortable in my role "behind the scenes" and as a mother the challenges that come along with running for office felt daunting. She saw things in me that I frankly did not see in myself – which is a common thread for many women in politics. Throughout my time with her I learned invaluable lessons on how to govern effectively. I truly admire the work she has done for the people of New York state. 

Interestingly enough, this is the first time in history that 100% of the incoming freshman Democratic conference will be all women. I am proud to be a part of that and proud that I have had Sen. Savino to guide me through this process.

What is your favorite place in New York? Since I was a teenager, the place I go to do all my thinking and clear my head has been the boardwalk on Staten Island. There is something deeply peaceful about being near the ocean and the boardwalk has always felt like "home" for me. I even have a particular bench I like to sit on when it is available.

Where does upstate New York begin? Rockland County (I know this is controversial) 

Do you believe in fate or free will? I think life is determined by multiple paths of fate and you have the free will to choose your path, but each path will lead you to what you are destined to do based on your choices.

Nathalia Fernandez, Democrat

State Senate District 34 (Bronx, Mid-Hudson Valley)

@fernandez4ny

Previous job(s): Assembly member

What is your Patronus? A tiger

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? The Bronx

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? I am proud of the representation and work I have done for my community and the state an Assembly member and look forward to expanding on it. We need to have a strong focus on rebuilding New York's economy, protecting our environment, and investing in our infrastructure. I believe our state has the opportunity to be a beacon of innovation and set the standard for the rest of the country. I am confident in our leadership to do just that and look forward to working with my colleagues in the Senate to build a better New York.

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? My predecessor and I have the same passion for uplifting communities and supporting good policy. Our methods of approach and governing may be different but the goal to strengthen the state are the same.

Who do you look up to? My mom

What is your favorite place in New York? The Bronx River

Where does upstate New York begin? Above Westchester

Do you believe in fate or free will? I don't believe they are mutually exclusive

Bill Weber, Republican

State Senate District 38 (Mid-Hudson Valley)

Previous job(s): Certified public accountant since 1994; Certified financial officer since 2000

What is your Patronus? Libra

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Village of Montebello; Town of Ramapo

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? Repeal the disastrous bail reform bill

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? I am a commonsense centrist with decades of small-business and financial experience something that is sorely needed in the state Legislature.

Who do you look up to? My wife, Lisa Gravitz Weber

What is your favorite place in New York? My hometown of Pearl River

Where does upstate New York begin? Rockland County

Do you believe in fate or free will? Free will

Rob Rolison, Republican

State Senate District 39 (Hudson Valley)

@rolisonforNY

Previous job(s): Mayor, city of Poughkeepsie

What is your Patronus? A doe, always

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? City of Poughkeepsie

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? We need to be laser focused on crime prevention and reducing the growing threat of crime in our streets and neighborhoods.

Who do you look up to? My parents.

What is your favorite place in New York? Poughkeepsie. You have the bustling city with the quiet neighborhoods all wrapped into one beautifully dynamic place.

Where does upstate New York begin? Poughkeepsie, of course.

Do you believe in fate or free will? Both. I believe in destiny and our ability to achieve it.

Jake Ashby, Republican

State Senate District 43 (Capital Region)

Previous job(s): Assembly member, occupational therapist, small-business owner, college instructor, U.S. Army captain

What is your Patronus? OH-58D Kiowa

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Castleton

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? To see the passage of the SSG Alex Jimenez Military Immigrant Family Legacy Program

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? This new senate district is comprised of three former districts. Just hope I can do a great job for those in the new district.

Who do you look up to? My parents

What is your favorite place in New York? Village of Castleton

Where does upstate New York begin? Westchester

Do you believe in fate or free will? Free will

Mark Walczyk, Republican

State Senate District 49 (North Country)

@MarkWalczyk

Previous job(s): Assembly member (current), Watertown City Council, Captain in the U.S. Army Reserves (current), State Senate staff

What is your Patronus? Red-tailed hawk

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? City of Watertown

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? Addressing the lack of broadband and cell service in rural New York

Who do you look up to? Secretary John McHugh

What is your favorite place in New York? My couch at home with my family

Where does upstate New York begin? Woodstock

Do you believe in fate or free will? Proverbs 16:9, A man's heart plans his way, but the Lord determines his steps.

Lea Webb, Democrat

State Senate District 52 (Southern Tier)

@leawebbforny

Previous job(s): Educator, Binghamton University; City Council Representative, Binghamton

What is your Patronus? Hawk

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Town of Union

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? My biggest priority going into session this year is navigating the economic impact the past two years have wrought on our state. In the past, our rural and small-town communities that I will be representing, often get left out of the conversation. Many working families are still struggling to recover and I think it's important that any legislation I sponsor or vote for will directly benefit those communities.

Who do you look up to? One of my political inspirations is Shirley Chisholm.

What is your favorite place in New York? Southern Tier

Where does upstate New York begin? One of the most controversial debates among New Yorkers! Being from the Southern Tier, myself, I have to say that upstate New York is north of Putnam County, but east of Syracuse.

Do you believe in fate or free will? Both

Kristen Gonzalez, Democrat

State Senate District 59 (Queens and Manhattan)

@gonzalez4ny

Previous job(s): Product manager

What is your Patronus? According to the BuzzFeed quiz I took, my patronus is an Otter, and the description reads: You’re the “smart one” among your group of friends and you’ll do anything for the people you love, even if it means getting into trouble. You’re a realist and appreciate a good book filled with knowledge and facts. Your Patronus takes the form of an otter, the same as Hermione Granger. Hermione was my favorite character so I’ll take that as a win!

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Long Island City

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? When we talked to our neighbors during the campaign, the number one thing on everyone’s mind was the cost of rent and being worried they would be pushed out of their neighborhood. In our first session, one of the things I hope to accomplish is to help push the Good Cause Eviction bill over the finish line. This bill would ensure that renters are protected from unfair evictions, and help more of our neighbors stay in their homes.

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? Since Senate District 59 is a new district, there is no predecessor, and we have an opportunity to begin to lead this district in a fresh, new direction. Since our campaign didn’t take any money from lobbyists, real estate, or fossil fuel interests, I will be accountable to our constituents. In a time where rents are at an astronomical high, the climate crisis is worsening, and right-wing fascism is on the rise, this is no time for politics as usual, and I plan to bring an organizer’s perspective to Albany.

Who do you look up to? While I admire all of my fellow Socialists in Office who have paved the way, I particularly look up to the women in this caucus – Julia Salazar, Phara Souffrant Forest, Marcela Mitaynes and Emily Gallagher. They have shown what it is like to lead with conviction, and I’m thrilled that Sarahana Shrestha and I will get to join them in Albany (and Jabari Brisport and Zohran Mamdani!) to create a New York that works for all of us.

What is your favorite place in New York? One of my favorite places in New York is the Murray Playground dog run in my neighborhood of Long Island City. It may be more of my dog Sunny’s favorite place, but I oblige him.

Where does upstate New York begin? This is the question that divides New Yorkers the most, so I will defer to my upstate colleagues for this answer ;)

Do you believe in fate or free will? While I do love to talk astrology among friends (I'm a Leo in case anyone is wondering), as a legislator, I know that I have the free will to make the hard decisions and fight for my constituents. And that’s what I plan on doing in Albany.

Assembly

Ed Flood, Republican

Assembly District 4 (Long Island)

@eflood29

Previous job(s): Attorney

What is your Patronus? Stag

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Port Jefferson

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? Repeal or amend the recently enacted criminal justice reforms.

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? We have very different ideology on the role government should play.

Who do you look up to? My brother

What is your favorite place in New York? Long Island beaches

Where does upstate New York begin? North of the Bronx

Do you believe in fate or free will? Free will

Jake Blumencranz, Republican

Assembly District 15 (Long Island)

Previous job(s): Insurance adviser

What is your Patronus? Otter

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Oyster Bay

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? Make Long Island a safer and more affordable place to live, work and raise a family. 

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? I will continue my predecessor's legacy of focusing on constituent services, while bringing a fresh perspective on the district's needs.

Who do you look up to? Former President and New York Assembly Member Theodore Roosevelt.

What is your favorite place in New York? The beaches of the North Shore of Long Island.

Where does upstate New York begin? The better question is: Where does downstate end?

Do you believe in fate or free will? We have to learn to compromise between the two.

Eric "Ari" Brown, Republican

Assembly District 20

Previous job(s): Village trustee and builder/designer

What is your Patronus? N/A

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Cedarhurst

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? To repeal cashless bail, congestion pricing and to fight these onerous transit and toll increases

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? My predecessor and I are quite similar, same motivation to serve our community. Some of my focus will be towards small business and infrastructure, not only for people with disabilities.

Who do you look up to? My dad and mentor and my other boyhood hero, President Ronald Reagan.

What is your favorite place in New York? At my home in Cedarhurst, with my children and grandchildren.

Where does upstate New York begin? The areas north of New York City, Rockland and most of Westchester

Do you believe in fate or free will? As the Bible tells us in so many ways, "Free will and fate are not separate." Our actions of free will of the past becomes our fate in the present.

Brian Curran, Republican

Assembly District 21 (Long Island)

Did not respond

Steven Raga, Democrat

Assembly District 30 (Queens)

@ragaforqueens

Previous job(s): Executive director at Woodside on the Move; Northeast regional manager for policy and advocacy at Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation; Chief of staff for Assembly Member Brian Barnwell; Multicultural leadership at AARP; Course associate instructor at Columbia University

What is your Patronus? Jack Russell Terrier

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Woodside, Queens

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? Increasing resources for nonprofit organizations that serve our seniors, vulnerable youth and immigrant communities.

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? Assembly Member Barnwell's professional background is as a practicing lawyer, while mine grows from human rights advocacy and community organizing. As every elected leader brings their own unique experiences into legislative work, I hope to take an organizing approach as a law maker.

Who do you look up to? Larry Itliong. He was a Filipino American union leader who spearheaded the Delano grape strike, and along with Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta, formed the United Farm Workers.

What is your favorite place in New York? The Museum of Natural History

Where does upstate New York begin? Old Saw Mill River Road in Westchester. The Knicks practice facility is on the south side of that and we can't have RJ Barrett practicing his jumper upstate.

Do you believe in fate or free will? Free will

Juan Ardila, Democrat

Assembly District 37 (Queens)

@JuanArdilaNYC

Previous job(s): Legal Aid Society

What is your Patronus? Horse

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Ridgewood

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? Passing Good Cause Eviction and the Build Public Renewables Act

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? I am a young Latino that comes from immigrant parents. My mother was faced with the threat of unjust deportation and that is what brought me to this space. I have strong personal and professional experience in public service that can guide me to ensure everyone in the district is set up for success.

Who do you look up to? My parents are my heroes

What is your favorite place in New York? Queens

Where does upstate New York begin? North of Westchester

Do you believe in fate or free will? A little bit of both

Michael Novakhov, Republican

Assembly District 45 (Brooklyn)

@MichaelforNY

Previous job(s): Co-founder, Radio Freedom FM 104.7 FM

What is your Patronus? So I actually took a quiz to see what my patronus would be and I got "Dragon: They are quick to lead and do not back down from a challenge. Dragons are strong in their convictions and will stand for what they believe is right."

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Manhattan Beach, Brooklyn

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? I am passionate about working with legislators on both sides of the aisle to try and be a positive agent for change. Although in the minority in the Assembly, it's my desire to try and advocate for housing and small businesses reform. Specifically, putting forward legislation to ban the abusive practice of apartment warehousing coupled with updating our housing tracking systems. 

With the median rent across New York City at a jaw dropping $5,000 per month, ending this practice will help to combat rising rent costs while transparency in apartment availability helps potential renters see true availability and helps to limit the illegal conversion of rental units. 

Small-business support is another critically important issue on which I'm hoping to continue to be an outspoken advocate. Businesses have suffered tremendously throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and many have been priced or pushed out. Every time we lose a local business we not only leave a vacant storefront behind – we lose jobs and a critical economic supporter of our community. As a business owner myself, I will continue to be an advocate of both business growth and job development. My hope is to work with my fellow legislators to support small businesses and restaurants still struggling to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic by fighting for tax incentives for our small businesses and giving direct financial support to rehire staff. Additionally, I am passionate that any new proposal put forward also ensures that locally-owned, minority-, women-, and LGBTQ+-owned businesses get their fair share of government contracts.

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? One noticeable change that I'm hoping to make is keeping a more open and inviting office. You would not believe the amount of constituents who I spoke with while on the campaign trail who told me how regularly the Assembly office was closed, blinds down, locked up tight! 

Moreover, many residents still seem to be waiting for return phone calls to help address their district concerns. I look forward to having my office open and staffed five days a week with staff available for regular in person and zoom meetings, in both English and Russian, depending on the needs of the constituent.

Who do you look up to? If you asked me a few years ago, I would've responded with Elon Musk when he founded Tesla. I still have a great appreciation for what he created, but this response is not constant. 

Now it is Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelenskyy; fighting for his nation’s freedom against the oppressive regime of one of the world's most powerful nations. The Ukrainian people are inspirational, and Zelenskyy embodies exactly what it means to be a good leader.

What is your favorite place in New York? I love my community in Manhattan Beach. Walking the shorefront and speaking to neighbors is truly where I find my peace. I'd also have to say Central Park; as it's impossible not to be captivated by its beauty!

Where does upstate New York begin? Ah yes, probably the most controversial question here!! 

As a member of the minority conference, the bulk of our members tend to be from the upstate region of New York; so I feel sound in my statement that Westchester is where upstate starts.

Do you believe in fate or free will? I'm a firm believer in free will. It's my opinion that we make our own destiny and forge our own path.

Alec Brook-Krasny, Republican

Assembly District 46 (Brooklyn)

@AlecBrookKrasny

Previous job(s): Former Assembly member, Entrepreneur, Community leader

What is your Patronus? Phoenix

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Brooklyn

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? Safer streets for our city.

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? Listening and responding to the constituents.

Who do you look up to? My family.

What is your favorite place in New York? Brooklyn

Where does upstate New York begin? North of Yonkers

Do you believe in fate or free will? Free will

Lester Chang, Republican

Assembly District 49 (Brooklyn)

Did not respond 

Sam Pirozzolo, Republican

Assembly District 63 (Staten Island)

@SamForNYC

Previous job(s): Optician

What is your Patronus? Fox

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Castleton Corners

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? My campaign was based on addressing a myriad of issues, and I would like to make progress on all of them not just one. In particular, bail reform and New York City property tax reform.

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? I was elected by the people of Staten Island and not the special interest groups in Albany. I am not beholden to Albany Democrats or their disastrous agenda that makes Staten Island less safe.

Who do you look up to? I look up to my parents and what they had accomplished as immigrants in this country, and I believe everyone should have the same opportunities that they and I had. Politically, I appreciate President Ronald Reagan.

What is your favorite place in New York? Staten Island – my home

Where does upstate New York begin? Upstate

Do you believe in fate or free will? Both

Grace Lee, Democrat 

Assembly District 65 (Manhattan)

@GraceLeeforNYC

Previous job(s): Community organizer and small-business owner

What is your Patronus? Fox – known for their loyalty and adaptability, as well as for being sly and cunning

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Financial District

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? Reforming the NYS Brownfield Cleanup Program to prioritize communities over corporations and to adequately protect communities from environmental threats.

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? I’m looking ahead. I want to build relationships with my colleagues in Albany and hope to find common ground with them regardless of our ideological backgrounds. I will focus on the hyperlocal issues important to my neighbors.

Who do you look up to? Rep. Grace Meng is a trailblazing Asian American elected who I deeply respect. She is an incredible advocate for the diverse communities she represents and is highly regarded by her peers.

What is your favorite place in New York? The waterfront! I love the Historic Seaport District and the piers and parks along the East River. My family is a big fan of the NYC Ferry service, which we use to get to Governors Island, to Long Island City to visit relatives, and to the beaches in the Rockaways.

Where does upstate New York begin? North of the 65th Assembly District seems right to me but, as a New Yorker, I consider upstate north of the Bronx.

Do you believe in fate or free will? Free will. I believe that we have the ability and power to improve the lives of the people in our communities and I look forward to doing this work as the next Assembly member for lower Manhattan.

Alex Bores, Democrat

Assembly District 73 (Manhattan)

@AlexBores

Previous job(s): Engineer; President of transportation practice at Promise; Co-founder and president of Foresight Partners

What is your Patronus? My cat

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Upper East Side

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? We need to address public safety. That includes expanding the number of judges so that we can eliminate the backlog of cases, updating our gun laws, addressing mental health, improving MTA safety and more.

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? Dan Quart was a wonderful Assembly member. I'm the first Democrat elected in New York with a degree in computer science. I'm looking forward to bringing that expertise to Albany for the first time.

Who do you look up to? Every person has a trait to admire and something to teach others. I try to find that in everyone I meet.

What is your favorite place in New York? The baseball fields in Central Park. They were our home fields for the Hunter High School baseball team, and they are also where my wife and I later decided to become a couple.

Where does upstate New York begin? North of Poughkeepsie

Do you believe in fate or free will? We should act as if we have free will.

Tony Simone, Democrat

Assembly District 75 (Manhattan)

@tonysimone

Previous job(s): Hudson River Park Friends, director of external affairs (2016-2022); Office of the New York City Council speaker, director of community outreach (2007-2014); People for the American Way, deputy director (2005-2007)

What is your Patronus? Otter

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Hell’s Kitchen

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? I hope to help pass legislation that will alleviate our housing crisis which is forcing too many of my neighbors in my district to move, but is also causing pain across the city and throughout New York. We need to increase housing construction in all areas while protecting tenants with stronger protections such as good cause eviction.

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? Assembly Member Gottfried has represented this district with wisdom and strength for decades, and is an amazing, intelligent, deliberative legislator who can literally write his own legislation. I value his talents and admire him as a mentor and hope to maintain a relationship for guidance on writing, sponsoring and co-sponsoring legislation that will make a positive impact on people’s lives. I will be an activist Assembly member since I am an advocate and organizer by trade and hope to learn from senior legislators, new colleagues and advocates and the voters of my district what actual legislation can deliver results for the district. I also hope to match Dick’s office in efficient and timely constituent services and will work my heart out for every constituent of our district just as he did.

Who do you look up to? My late grandfather, Tony, a Teamsters Union delegate, and my mom, a Peruvian immigrant and my dad. My mom worked in factories making wigs for people with cancer and my dad drove yellow taxi cabs and trucks to support our family. All three taught me the importance of public service, serving my community and collective action, along with building diverse coalitions to solve complex problems with bold solutions.

What is your favorite place in New York? Hudson River Park where I’ve worked in the past and am now excited to help protect and grow.

Where does upstate New York begin? Bear Mountain

Do you believe in fate or free will? I believe in both.

George Alvarez, Democrat

Assembly District 78 (Bronx)

@galvareznyc

Previous job(s): IT director

What is your Patronus? Dolphins

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Kingsbridge Heights

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? Public safety improvement

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? I think this time is critical for the district to have representation at this moment that understands the challenges as well as the determination to fight for resources.

Who do you look up to? Reps. Adriano Espaillat and Ritchie Torres

What is your favorite place in New York? Yankee Stadium

Where does upstate New York begin? I think everybody will define it their way, but to me is Poughkeepsie

Do you believe in fate or free will? I believe that everybody should have the freedom to do what is best for them and their family

John Zaccaro Jr., Democrat

Assembly District 80 (Bronx)

@JZForNY

Previous job(s): Chief of staff to New York City Council Member Rafael Salamanca Jr.; Intergovernmental affairs director for New York City Department of Education

What is your Patronus? A phoenix

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Pelham Parkway

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? Quality of life was among my top priorities as a candidate as it has been as a member of my community, and I know it is equally important to my constituents. I look forward to aggressively working with my colleagues in the Assembly to pass bold legislation and fight to ensure that we receive our fair share of state funding needed to begin addressing these critical issues in my community.

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? My story is a common one here in the Bronx – I am the son of a single mother and I have lived and struggled through housing insecurity, subpar education and public safety. These lived experiences have always motivated my work. When I get to Albany, my neighbors who have been shortchanged by those vicious cycles of life will now have a seat at the table, and a fighter to amplify the voice of the underserved.

Who do you look up to? My children. They are the next generation who inspire me to fight harder every day. The decisions we make now will impact the future of many children and young people who we’ll never have the opportunity to meet, but we can help make their future more safer, cleaner, healthier and prosperous.

What is your favorite place in New York? The Boogie Down Bronx!

Where does upstate New York begin? I might have to phone a friend

Do you believe in fate or free will? Free will

MaryJane Shimsky, Democrat

Assembly District 92 (Mid-Hudson Valley)

Previous job(s): Westchester County legislator (2011-22); Community relations director, Office of Assembly Member Richard Brodsky (2007-10); Adjunct faculty, history and geography, Marymount College; Assistant district attorney, Appeals Bureau, New York City

What is your Patronus? 19-year-old cat

What neighborhood/town do you reside in? Dobbs Ferry

What’s one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? In terms of policy, to find ways to begin increasing the number of mental health professionals. In terms of process, to begin a more open dialogue with the residents of the 92nd Assembly District.

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? If we are going to solve the problems we face (including climate change and climate resiliency; crumbling infrastructure; our housing affordability crisis; our mental health crisis; bigotry and hatred; and threats to democracy), stakeholders must work cooperatively together. I believe in fostering the dialogue and collaborative thinking we need to move forward on these and so many other issues.

Who do you look up to?  Queen Elizabeth I, the shrewdest politician of the 1500s, who also showed more concern for the people of her country than her male contemporaries; Eleanor Roosevelt, a pure-hearted humanitarian; and Benjamin Franklin, an innovator and cycle breaker.

What is your favorite place in New York? Lake Placid

Where does upstate New York begin? Upstate begins at the northern border of Franklin Roosevelt’s estate in northern Dutchess County.

Do you believe in fate or free will? Both – to a large extent, we create our fate; but there is such a thing as luck (both good and bad).

Matt Slater, Republican

Assembly District 94 (Hudson Valley)

@slater4ny

Previous job(s): Yorktown town supervisor; Chief of staff for state Sen. Terrence Murphy

What is your Patronus? Fox

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Yorktown

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? Protect taxpayers from Albany's out of control spending.

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? I don't play the bagpipes

Who do you look up to? My mom

What is your favorite place in New York? National Baseball Hall of Fame

Where does upstate New York begin? I-84

Do you believe in fate or free will? Both

Dana Levenberg, Democrat

Assembly District 95 (Hudson Valley)

@dana4assembly

Previous job(s): Ossining town supervisor

What is your Patronus? An ocelot! Inspired by my son’s idea for a mascot for Ossining High School, it’s a mix of hometown pride, intelligence and strength.

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Ossining

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? I hope to accomplish a lot in my first session. I will start with a listening tour of my district. A top priority will be ensuring that projects in environmental justice communities are prioritized as promised when Environmental Bond Act funding is disbursed. I am also keen to work on a bill to take a long-term approach to improving road quality in light of climate change. Just like all the work we do, we must adapt the materials we use to fix our roads and keep them safe during the winter. In addition to ensuring our infrastructure is resilient, we must employ new solutions that will endure in a changing environment.

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? I have learned so much from my predecessor, Sandy Galef. With the benefit of new technology, I aim to take all of the good things from her 30-year tenure and expand on them, particularly with regard to communications. My office will use more platforms to communicate, and I plan to add mobile office hours throughout the district.

Who do you look up to? I would be remiss if I didn’t say Sandy Galef. She has been a stalwart advocate for her Assembly district and all New Yorkers for so many years. Her ethics are beyond reproach and she has always focused on good government, open dialogue and democracy as the most effective tool to improving society for all. Right next to her would be my mom. She has always been fiercely independent, motivated, creative, intelligent and never a pushover. She doesn’t take no for an answer. My grandmother always said, “A ‘no’ you have, a ‘yes’ you can get.” My mom and I both live by that mantra.

What is your favorite place in New York? I love the Lower Hudson Valley – our river views and all the history and culture along the Hudson are amazing. I am so fortunate to live in and represent such a beautiful part of the state and will work hard to support and protect everything we hold dear.

Where does upstate New York begin? I think of Saratoga as the beginning of upstate. The Adirondack region.

Do you believe in fate or free will? I believe in free will but I can’t say I don’t knock on wood or throw salt over my shoulder!

John McGowan, Republican

Assembly District 97 (Mid-Hudson Valley)

@McGowan4NY

Previous job(s): Legislator, Rockland County (District 15); Senior assistant district attorney, Rockland County District Attorney’s Office; Assistant district attorney, Bronx County District Attorney’s Office

What is your Patronus? Wolf – strong, loyal, and fights for its pack.

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Pearl River, Rockland County

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? To be voice of reason and common sense to tackle the issues I believe are most pressing to our state: promoting public safety, supporting law enforcement and fighting to make New York more affordable. 

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? My predecessor, Assembly Member Mike Lawler, fought hard every day to advocate for residents in Rockland. I will do the same and use my experience and skill set to fight for Rockland and the future of New York state.

Who do you look up to? My dad is my hero. He passed away when I was 10 years old, but he was a good, humble man who worked tirelessly for my family, even while battling with cancer. His drive and work ethic have shaped my approach in life, both personally and professionally, and I will always look up to him.

What is your favorite place in New York? I love Rockland County, where I have lived my whole life, but my favorite place is my home, Pearl River!

Where does upstate New York begin? It depends who you ask, but I think the line is wherever people start rooting for the Buffalo Bills over the Giants or Jets!

Do you believe in fate or free will? Free will: I believe we all are responsible for our choices in life

Chris Eachus, Democrat

Assembly District 99 (Hudson Valley)

Race called after deadline

Brian Maher, Republican

Assembly District 101 (Catskills)

@SupervisorMaher

Previous job(s): Mayor, village of Walden; Director of communications, state Sen. Bill Larkin; Executive director, National Purple Heart Honor Mission; Supervisor, town of Montgomery

What is your Patronus? Fox

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Walden

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? Bring more opportunities to youth, seniors and families in general within the communities I represent.

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? I am from the Hudson Valley and they were from the northern part of the 101st District.

Who do you look up to? My parents

What is your favorite place in New York? Walden

Where does upstate New York begin? Orange County

Do you believe in fate or free will? Both

Sarahana Shrestha, Democrat

Assembly District 103 (Hudson Valley)

@sarahana

Previous job(s): Graphic designer

What is your Patronus? Coffee

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Esopus

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? Change the conversation on what's possible.

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? I think the Assembly office should be a vehicle for building a multigenerational movement that can fight for the vision of the world we believe in.

Who do you look up to? Those who make collective action possible.

What is your favorite place in New York? The rural parts of our district, in the golden hour right before sunset!

Where does upstate New York begin? Where the Metro North ends

Do you believe in fate or free will? I believe that the conditions you're born into shape the limits of your free will

Anil R. Beephan Jr., Republican

Assembly District 105 (Hudson Valley)

@anilbeephanjr

Previous job(s): Council member, town of East Fishkill, Legislative aide/community relations, state Senate; Market research, private firm

What is your Patronus? N/A

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Hopewell Junction

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? I hope to introduce S09545 – "Melanie's Law" in the Assembly. This relates to orders of protection; allows courts to issue orders of protection for immediate family members or household members of the named victims, regardless of age. Our community tragically lost Melanie Chianese earlier this year in part due to loop holes in our criminal justice laws. This would help prevent this situation from happening again.

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? My focus is on establishing strong constituent services and creating an accessible relationship between residents and New York state government.

Who do you look up to? My parents

What is your favorite place in New York? Hopewell Junction – my hometown

Where does upstate New York begin? Red Hook, New York

Do you believe in fate or free will? A healthy mix of both

Scott Bendett, Republican

Assembly District 107 (Capital Region)

Previous job(s): Shopkeeper (Pipes and Cigars); Real estate property maintenance and owner; Other business

What is your Patronus? Dog – my dog – Pit/Jack Russell mutt

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? Averill Park

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? There are many things I hope to accomplish and am hoping my patronus aids me since I am in the minority.

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? We are friends and are as different as we are similar. Our greatest difference is our size as he is nearly a foot taller than I.

Who do you look up to? I cannot choose one. So many people have helped shape me and I admire so many.

What is your favorite place in New York? My home and where I live

Where does upstate New York begin? North of 287

Do you believe in fate or free will? Both – I believe that luck is when opportunity meets preparation.

Scott Andrew Gray, Republican

Assembly District 116 (North Country)

@AndrewgrayS

Previous job(s): County legislator

What is your Patronus? N/A

Which neighborhood/town do you live in? City of Watertown

What's one thing you hope to accomplish in your first session? Assess the needs of the local governments and have the state bring resources to assist.

How do you think you differ from your predecessor? I have owned my small business for 40 years.

Who do you look up to? State Sen. Jim Wright

What is your favorite place in New York? St. Lawrence River

Where does upstate New York begin? Albany

Do you believe in fate or free will? Both