Lunsford switches run for office from NY Senate to Assembly

Penfield, N.Y.  – Democrat Jen Lunsford announced Wednesday she is changing her candidacy in a run for public office.

Lunsford will be running for New York’s 135th Assembly District this November. Last September, she announced a run for the state’s 55th Senate District.

The 135th Assembly District includes the towns of Webster, Penfield and Perinton as well as the villages of East Rochester and Fairport. Republican Mark Johns currently holds the seat; he has been there since 2010.

In a statement released Wednesday, Lunsford said she attributes her decision to a growing movement of public engagement in the areas she aims to serve.

“We’re seeing a hunger for new ideas and a passionate desire for truly representative officials who actively listen to the full range of voices in our community,” Lunsford said.

Rep. Joe Morelle voiced his support for Lunsford’s Assembly candidacy, calling her a “dedicated advocate for our community.” Assemblywoman Jamie Romeo also championed Lunsford, saying she “has demonstrated the humility and courage we need in our elected leaders in Albany.”

“As I transition from my time in the State Legislature I cannot think of anyone better than Jen Lunsford to carry our voices to the Capitol,” Romeo said.

In 2018, Lunsford ran a close race against incumbent Rich Funke, a Republican. Funke won by a 52-48 percent margin. He announced his impending retirement from the 55th Senate District last month.

Democrat Samra Brouk has announced her intention to run for the 55th District seat.