Candidate Profile 2024: Rolison Seeks Re-Election To NY Senate

HUDSON VALLEY, NY — In 2024's general election, residents of the Hudson Valley will be voting for federal, state and local officials. In anticipation, Patch asked candidates in the region's contested races to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.

Seeking re-election to the New York State Senate in the 39th District, Rob Rolison (R,C) is being challenged by Yvette Valdés Smith (D, WF).

Town of residence: City of Poughkeepsie

Education: Marist College, Bachelor of Arts, Criminal Justice

Age: 66

Occupation: NYS Senator, 39th District

Campaign website, social media: robrolison.com, @rolisonforny

Why are you seeking this office?

I am running for re-election to make New York safer, more affordable, and protect our community by lifting up every voice.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

As a retired former police officer who served his community for 26 years, as well as the father of a cop currently on the job, public safety remains a top priority. If our residents can't feel safe in their own communities, other policy approaches will fall short.

What other issues are you addressing during your campaign?

I am committed to supporting our seniors, veterans, and parents who feel left behind by Albany's one-party culture of business as usual. My office has handled over 1,100 casework concerns for constituents since I took office; in 2024 alone, we've successfully closed almost 90 percent of the cases we've received in our District Office. When I ran for office I pledged I would work every day to represent the entirety of this district, regardless of political affiliation. It's a promise I've kept.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

In my first term as Senator representing the 39th District, I sponsored Melanie's Law and fought to get it passed despite Albany's obstruction. Once signed into law, this legislation will protect domestic abuse victims and empower survivors while closing a legal loophole exploited by their abusers.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

From my mom and dad, be respectful of others. Not everyone is going to share your voice or have the same opinion. From my dad: As a public servant, I learned that you represent everyone -- and that is the only way you will be successful as an elected official.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

My legislative record includes being the first Republican to co-sponsor the Save the Hudson Act, which was signed into law in 2023 and banned radioactive dumping into our river. I'm also proud to have voted to eliminate out-of-pocket costs on insulin for patients who need it. Additionally, I sponsored strong legislation to fight the fentanyl epidemic that is killing Hudson Valley residents and threatening the lives of our first responders by targeting the criminals who peddle this poison in our community.