Statement From Speaker Silver Regarding
Selection Of Dean Skelos As Majority Leader Of The State Senate

I served with Dean Skelos in the Assembly, I have known him for many years and consider him to be both a friend and a valued colleague.

Senator Skelos' reputation as an effective legislator and a strong advocate for his constituents and for the people of Long Island is well-known and well-deserved. I am confident that he will bring the same drive and dedication to the position of Majority Leader, and I congratulate him on being selected by his fellow senators to serve in that role.

Over the years, in discussions of many important issues, I have observed that Senator Skelos has deep knowledge of the workings of the Legislature and great command of legislative issues. So he is, I believe, a natural choice to lead the Senate.

I look forward to working with Senator Skelos on behalf of the people of the State of New York.