Nick Reisman is reporting for State of Politics Republican Robert Ortt, Tue., Dec. 15, was unanimously re-elected leader of the state Senate GOP conference. Ortt has been charged with rebuilding and returning the conference to power while serving as the voice of the opposition. “I’m proud that my colleagues put their confidence and faith in me to lead the New York State Senate Republican Conference," Ortt said in a statement. "I am prepared to work tirelessly to put forward an agenda that helps ensure all New York families across the state thrive. It is time to bring back affordability and say ‘NO’ to higher taxes..." Ortt said that he and his Republican colleagues will make small businesses a priority and continue to promote economic development, as well. Ortt took over the conference in early 2020, succeeding John Flanagan. He is the first Republican leader in the state Senate from western New York in half a century. Read the full story at nystateofpolitics [dot] com.