ALBANY, NY — GNUSA
State Senate Deputy Majority Leader Michael Gianaris announced on February 9 that he will not seek reelection, bringing an end to more than 25 years of representing western Queens in the state Legislature. Gianaris, one of the most influential Democrats in the Senate, currently serves as the chamber’s second‑highest‑ranking member after Majority Leader Andrea Stewart‑Cousins.
In a statement posted on X, Gianaris said the decision came after deep reflection on his long tenure in public service. “After more than 25 years representing the people of western Queens in the Senate and Assembly, I have decided not to seek reelection in 2026”, he wrote. He described his years helping lead the Senate’s largest Democratic majority — and serving as the highest‑ranking senator from New York City — as “more rewarding than I could have possibly imagined”.
Gianaris noted that family played a central role in his decision. He married his second wife in 2022 and is the father of a 2‑year‑old daughter, as well as an 11‑year‑old from his wife’s previous relationship. “It is time for me to embrace a new role as the best father I can be,” he added.
