Rich Funke to Deliver Republican Response to Governor Cuomo’s State of the State/budget Message

Former Rochester Television Anchor One of 7 Freshman in New Republican Majority

New York State Senator Rich Funke, a former Rochester television anchor and one of seven freshmen that make up the new Senate Republican Majority, will deliver the official GOP response to Governor Cuomo’s State of the State/Budget address in Albany this week, Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos announced today.

“Rich Funke and the entire freshman class were instrumental in returning Republicans to the majority in the State Senate, and they will play a key role in helping us implement an agenda that cuts taxes, encourages the private sector to create new jobs and improves the lives of hardworking New Yorkers. We’re pleased that Rich will be delivering the Senate Republican message to the people of this state,” Skelos said.

In addition to spending more than four decades in broadcasting, Funke has devoted considerable time and energy to many worthwhile community organizations in the Rochester area, among them the Golisano Children's Hospital, Cancer Action, the Ronald McDonald House and Camp Good Days and Special Times.

Funke represents the 55th Senate District in Albany, which includes East Rochester, Irondequoit, Mendon, Penfield, Perinton, Pittsford, the City of Rochester and Rush in Monroe County; and Bristol, East Bloomfield, Naples, Richmond, South Bristol, Victor and West Bloomfield in Ontario County. He defeated former Democrat Senator Ted O’Brien in November.

Rich and his wife Patricia have been married for 45 years.