ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — Democrat Jeremy Cooney has won reelection in New York's 56th State Senate District. The Associated Press called the race Tuesday evening. Incumbent Democrat Jeremy Cooney was elected to the position in 2020. He was named Chairman of the Transportation Committee in 2024, and is a member of the Monroe County Democratic Committee. Republican Jim VanBrederode was also on the ballot this year. VanBrederode is a former chief of the Gates Police Department. New York's 56th State Senate District contains Brighton, Gates, Greece, and Henrietta, along with Charlotte and Maplewood in Rochester. In a statement early Wednesday morning, Cooney wrote: “The residents of the 56th senate district have spoken and their message was clear: they chose hope over fear, progress over status quo, and optimism over cynicism.  The majority of Rochesterians believe in a woman’s right to choose and the importance of reproductive healthcare access. They believe in making our community more affordable and homeownership more attainable. They believe in public safety, and understand that in order to make change, you have to have a seat at the table in Albany. When I go back to the capitol as the new Senate Transportation Chair, be assured high-speed rail and upstate airports will be on my agenda.  It’s my honor to serve this my hometown for a third term and to continue bringing our Rochester values of innovation and equity to Albany.” Click here for the latest 2024 election results as they become available.