Candidate Profile 2024: Reichlin-Melnick Vies For NYS Senate Seat

WESTCHESTER COUNTY, 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.

Democrat Elijah Reichlin-Melnick is hoping to make a return to the New York State Senate, representing the 38th District, which includes much of Rockland County and a portion of Westchester County.

Name
Elijah Reichlin-Melnick

Education
B.A. in history and government from Cornell University, Masters in City and Regional Planning from Rutgers University

Age
40

Occupation
Former New York State Senator; running for re-election in 2024. Currently working as Assistant Director of Energy Conservation & Sustainability for Westchester County.

Campaign website, social media

Website: www.elijahforsenate.com
Twitter: @Elijah4Senate
Facebook: Elijah Reichlin-Melnick for State Senate

Why are you seeking this office?
I grew up in Rockland and I’m raising my family here now. I'm running for State Senate because I believe that Rockland County deserves a senator who will stand up for middle-class families, make life more affordable, deliver real results on critical issues like public safety, housing options, and education, and who will always put Rockland First. I’ve seen first hand how our community thrives when we have leaders who listen and fight for the needs of regular New Yorkers, and I’m ready to return to Albany to continue that work.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
The biggest difference is that I’ve spent my career fighting for the people of Rockland and Westchester, and I have the track record to prove it. From securing millions in school funding to passing laws that lower taxes for middle class families and delivering property tax rebates, I’ve always prioritized the needs of our community. My opponent Bill Weber has been more focused on serving his own interests–even to the point of suing New York State so he can earn more money–and advancing policies that benefit the wealthy few, while voting against measures that would make our neighborhoods safer and more affordable for everyone. The third candidate on the ballot is not actively campaigning and only got on the ballot as part of a plan by my Republican opponent and his allies to try to win by confusing voters.

What other issues are you addressing during your campaign?
In addition to affordability and public safety, I’m also focused on ensuring the state does more to combat the growing wave of anti-Semitism on college campuses and around New York, protecting local zoning laws to ensure thoughtful development, prioritizing protection of open space and clean drinking water, and strengthening our state’s support for first responders to keep our communities safe. I believe we need bold action to make New York State a place where people of all backgrounds can thrive, not just the wealthy and well-connected.

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

As a former State Senator, I passed legislation that cut taxes for middle-class families, increased school funding, and helped secure investments for clean energy and infrastructure projects. I worked to protect reproductive rights, fully fund law enforcement, and oppose congestion pricing that burdens commuters. I’ve delivered tangible results by ensuring our communities have the resources they need to thrive, from improving public safety to making life more affordable for working families.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
One of the best pieces of advice I’ve ever received is to never forget who you’re fighting for. That means staying grounded in the needs of the community and always putting people first. Whether I’m in Albany or out on the campaign trail, I strive to live by that advice every day.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
I’m proud to have deep roots in this community. I grew up in Nyack, attended local public schools, and have dedicated my career to making the Hudson Valley a better place to live. I’m committed to restoring trust in government and ensuring that our district has a voice in Albany who will fight for affordability, safety, and a better future for everyone.