Meet Your New State Senators
In 2011, Senate Democrats welcome five new members to our ranks, a substantial change in the composition of the Democratic State Senate Conference, and a change that will benefit all New Yorkers.
These new members, all elected on strong platforms of reform, are ready shake up Albany and make the state legislature work for the people of New York once more.
Tony Avella
Tony Avella has dedicated his life to fighting for middle-class families.
In 2001, Tony won election to the New York City Council in the 19th District - Northeast Queens. He was twice reelected with an overwhelming majority, thanks in part to his refusal of the “lulu;” an unethical, taxpayer funded salary increase in return for loyalty to council leadership instead of taxpayers, and his fight to stop the City Council from granting itself an unethical, 25% pay raise. Out of respect for the voters’ referenda on term limits, Avella opted not to run for reelection to the City Council in 2009.
Fed up with the pay-to-play status quo and political special interests that have consumed Albany for decades, Tony’s reputation as a staunch reformist, and his unwavering commitment to the highest code of ethics, will help bring real change to Albany. A strong advocate for more reform and transparency in government, Tony will fight to transform the State Senate so that it works for the people once again.
Adriano Espaillat
Senator Adriano Espaillat was elected to the New York State Senate in 2010, following 14 years of service in the State Assembly. He represents a uniquely diverse district which stretches from Manhattan’s Upper West Side through Washington Heights and includes Riverdale, Marble Hill, Inwood, and Hamilton Heights.
Prior to taking office in the senate, Senator Espaillat distinguished himself through a record of advocacy and achievement. From organizing daycare workers, to extending workers’ protection to livery cab drivers, to increasing access to higher education for thousands of New Yorkers, Adriano Espaillat has proven to be a fighter who delivers for his community.
Senate Espaillat continues to stand up for his constituents, making job creation his top priority in the Senate. He remains a proven advocate for justice, equality, and progress for all New Yorkers.
Mike Gianaris
After representing the 36th Assembly District in Astoria, Queens, for 10 years as the first Greek-American to be elected from New York City, Michael Gianaris was elected to the State Senate in 2010 with over 81% of the vote.
In the Assembly, Gianaris emerged as a leader on government reform issues, championing numerous measures to improve the efficiency and transparency of state government, including a proposal to reform the legislative redistricting process that the New York Times has called "the real key to reform" in Albany.
In 2006, Gianaris also served as Finance Chair for the State Democratic Party, helping to break fundraising records which greatly contributed to the Democrat’s historic sweep of every statewide office and the gain of three Congressional seats.
Senator Gianaris was recently appointed as the Chair of the New York Senate Dems.
Tim Kennedy
Tim Kennedy was appointed to the Erie County Legislature to represent the Second District in December 2004 and successfully won reelection in November 2005 and 2007.
Throughout his first two terms in County Hall, Kennedy has distinguished himself as one of the most accomplished and finest leaders in county government.
Tim entered his role as legislator during Erie County government's lowest point. As a freshman legislator, Tim worked hard to help solve Erie County's fiscal crisis. His efforts helped guide Erie County back towards prosperity, and his first months in office were a true testament to his leadership and ability to justly represent not just Democrats, but all the residents of his district and the region.
In the State Senate, just as he did in Erie County, Tim will fight on behalf of all New Yorkers to cut taxes, create jobs, and reform Albany's corrupt culture.
Gustavo Rivera
Born and raised in Puerto Rico, Gustavo Rivera has lived in the Bronx and worked in our community for over a decade. Senator Rivera came to New York for a doctoral studies in political science at the Graduate Center of the City University of New York, where he also taught courses in American and Comparative politics until 2002. While in New York, Gustavo distinguished himself as a community leader working for progressive causes and public officials at the local, state and national level. He has dedicated his time and talent to working for on behalf of SEIU, the Service Employees International Union and as a community organizer, helping to elect progressive candidates to serve in the New York State Senate. In 2008, Senator Obama selected Rivera to serve as his Hispanic Constituency Director in the crucial swing state of Florida. Rivera worked on turning out a huge Hispanic victory there for our President. Following his work on the Obama campaign, Rivera returned to New York State to serve as Director of Outreach for US Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, also serving as a faculty member in the political science department at Pace University, teaching courses in state and local government.
As a State Senator, Gustavo Rivera will fight to bring good jobs to New York, be an advocate for better public education and the rights of tenants, but most importantly. Gustavo will be a voice for the families of the District 33, bringing a fresh new perspective, Senator Rivera will work to change the way business is run in Albany.
