Nathalia Fernandez makes New York history, becomes first Latina elected to State Senate in district

In a historic victory during last night’s U.S. Elections, Assemblywoman Natalia Fernandez has been elected the next State Senator for New York’s 34th District.

With over 64% of the vote, she becomes the first-ever Latina to be elected to serve as State Senator for that specific district.

In response to her victory, Fernandez expressed great pride in sharing the win with the people of her community, as well as the work of her campaign in elevating their voices.

“Tonight’s victory is an achievement, not just for me, but for the Latino community of Westchester. I’m proud to be the first Latina, and person of color, to represent State Senate District 34 and to lead in a way that reflects the incredibly diverse fabric of this district,” she said in a statement.

Fernandez had served on the New York State Assembly, representing District 80, since 2018. During her time in the 80th Assembly District, Fernandez led numerous projects and initiatives, including providing internships and volunteer opportunities to high school and college students, organizing events and health care services for seniors, and planning numerous community events.

Before being elected to the Assembly, she worked for former Assembly Member Mark Gjonaj as a volunteer and later became his Chief of Staff.

She also previously worked as a representative at the office of former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, where she helped advance a number of projects and services that benefit constituents, including making the community aware of the Excelsior Scholarship availability, as well as the paid family leave program.