Senator Adriano Espaillat Selected as Chair of Senate Latino Caucus

(New York, NY) – Members of the New York State Senate Puerto Rican/Latino Caucus have selected Senator Adriano Espaillat (D – Manhattan/Bronx) to chair the caucus. Sen. Espaillat was nominated by the previous chair, Senator Ruben Diaz, and chosen unanimously as the new chair.

 “Senator Espaillat will bring with him a wealth of experience in advocating for working-families and taking on the tough fights that help uplift our communities,” said Senator Ruben Diaz. “As the previous chair of the Puerto Rican/Latino Caucus, I was pleased to nominate Senator Espaillat because I know he will demonstrate the leadership qualities needed to move us forward.”

 “I am humbled to be chosen by my colleagues as the chair of the Senate Latino Caucus,” said Senator Adriano Espaillat. “Together, we will continue to represent communities that have been traditionally underrepresented and address the issues affecting all New Yorkers. While I am proud to lead the Latino Caucus, I know that each of our members will play a key role as we take up policy and legislative measures that will help our constituents during these tough times.” 

 Senate Democratic Leader John L. Sampson said, "Senator Espaillat has distinguished himself a true leader in every sense of the word, and I am delighted he has accepted this responsibility and will shepherd bills through the legislative process which benefit all Hispanic and Puerto Rican New Yorkers and, in fact, all taxpayers. I also want to thank Senator Ruben Diaz for his tireless efforts in his capacity as chair for the last several years. I often turn to Senators Espaillat and Diaz, as well as Senators Dilan, Serrano, Peralta and Rivera for guidance, and always appreciate their commitment to their districts, and intelligent and thoughtful advice."

 In addition to choosing Senator Espaillat to lead the Caucus, members of the Caucus chose Senator Gustavo Rivera (D – Bronx) as the vice-chair. Senator Rivera will work closely with Senator Espaillat and all members of the Caucus to help advance its agenda.  

 “I am excited to get to work as vice-chair of the Senate Latino Caucus,” said Senator Gustavo Rivera. “ I congratulate Senator Espaillat on being chosen as our new chair. Together, we will pursue a smart, progressive agenda that ensures full representation for all New Yorkers.”