Former New York State Assembly Majority Leader Ron Canestrari Dies at 83
Former New York State Assembly Majority Leader Ron Canestrari has passed away at the age of 83. Canestrari served in the Assembly from 1989 until his retirement in 2012, representing parts of the Capital Region. He held the position of Majority Leader in the Assembly from 2007 until his retirement. Prior to his tenure in the Assembly, Canestrari served as the mayor of Cohoes. Governor Kathy Hochul issued a statement acknowledging his service as a Vietnam-era veteran, his time as Mayor of Cohoes, and his role as Majority Leader, highlighting his dedication to his constituents, schools, local communities, and economic development in the Capital Region. Capital Region Rep. Paul Tonko (D - NY20) also released a statement, describing Canestrari as 'a titan who always fought on behalf of those he represented.' John McDonald, Canestrari's successor in the Assembly, remembered him as a 'great guy' and a 'hard-working public servant' who was a friend to everyone.