Rob Ortt

Rob Ortt is an American politician and military veteran serving as a member of the New York State Senate for the 62nd district, which encompasses parts of Western New York. A member of the Republican Party, he previously served as the Mayor of North Tonawanda. Ortt has held leadership roles within the New York State Senate Republican Conference, including as Minority Leader of the New York State Senate.

Early life and education

Rob Ortt was born and raised in North Tonawanda, New York, a city in Niagara County. He attended Niagara University, where he earned a degree in Political Science. Following his graduation, Ortt enlisted in the United States Army and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant through the Reserve Officers' Training Corps program. His military service included a deployment to Afghanistan as part of the War in Afghanistan with the New York Army National Guard.

Political career

Ortt began his political career in local government, serving on the North Tonawanda Common Council. He was elected Mayor of North Tonawanda in 2009, taking office in 2010 and focusing on issues like economic development and fiscal management. In 2014, he was elected to the New York State Senate to succeed retiring Senator George Maziarz, representing the 62nd district. Within the New York State Legislature, Ortt has served as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Economic Development and Small Business. Following the 2022 elections, he was elected by his colleagues to serve as the Minority Leader of the New York State Senate, leading the New York State Senate Republican Conference.

Electoral history

In the 2009 North Tonawanda mayoral election, Ortt defeated Democratic candidate Donna Braun. He won re-election as mayor in 2013. For the New York State Senate in 2014, he won the Republican primary and then the general election against Democrat Johnny G. Destino. Ortt was re-elected in 2016, defeating James K. Kessler, and again in 2018 against Peter M. DiCostanzo. He faced challenger John S. Sneed in 2020 and won re-election. His 2022 re-election campaign was successful against Democrat James K. Kessler once more, solidifying his hold on the historically Republican-leaning district within the New York State Senate districts.

Political positions

Ortt is a conservative Republican whose positions often align with the New York State Conservative Party. He is a vocal critic of policies advanced by Governors Andrew Cuomo and Kathy Hochul, particularly regarding taxes, such as opposition to the New York State tax cap debates, and criminal justice reforms like the bail reform laws. He advocates for strengthening law enforcement, supporting the Second Amendment, and has opposed the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. On economic issues, he supports tax cuts for small businesses and has been critical of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's funding and management. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he criticized the state's emergency powers exercised by the Governor of New York.

Personal life

Ortt is married to Meghan Ortt, and they reside in North Tonawanda. He is a practicing Catholic and a member of various community organizations, including the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars, reflecting his service in the United States Army. His military awards include the Bronze Star Medal and the Combat Action Badge for his service in Afghanistan.

Category:New York (state) Republicans Category:Members of the New York State Senate Category:American military personnel of the War in Afghanistan