Sen. Andrea Stewart-Cousins, D-Yonkers, who represents part of New Rochelle in the 35th District, is making history.
The Senate Democratic Conference announced that Stewart-Cousins is the new conference leader–and the first woman in New York state's history to hold the position.
The senator, who was re-elected in November, is known as a leader in the NY state senate, advocating on issues including campaign finance reform, women's health, small businesses and "common sense gun laws."
“I am truly humbled and honored to be selected by my colleagues for this position," Stewart-Cousins said in a statement. "I look forward to advocating for the progressive agenda that the people of New York have demanded. I will work with my colleagues in the Republican and IDC Coalition to ensure that the progressive issues that both the governor and our conference believe in are advanced."
Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino shared his support of the senator and her appointment.
“I called Sen. Stewart-Cousins earlier today to congratulate her on this historic achievement," Astorino said in a statement Tuesday. "That the first woman to lead a conference in the New York State Legislature is from Westchester is something we can all be proud of. We wish her well as she continues to advocate on the county’s behalf in her new leadership position.”
Senator Daniel Squadron agreed. He said he is looking forward to working with Stewart-Cousins and proud of the history-making appointment.
"Today we made history, electing the first woman leader of a New York legislative conference," Squadron said. "I look forward to working with Senator Stewart-Cousins' leadership to continue to move forward the progressive foundation that Senator Sampson has built."
The 35th Senate District is comprised of Scarsdale, the Rivertowns and parts of New Rochelle, Tarrytown-Sleep Hollow and White Plains.
We are so proud!