Republican Robert Ortt on Tuesday was unanimously re-elected the leader of the state Senate GOP conference which he has been tasked with rebuilding and returning to power in the chamber while also remaining the voice of the opposition in a Capitol dominated by Democrats.

“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. I, along with my Republican colleagues will make it a priority for our small businesses to succeed now more than ever and continue to promote economic development growth."

Ortt took over the conference earlier this year after the resignation of John Flanagan to work for a health care network on Long Island. 

Democrats in the chamber took control of the state Senate in 2018 for the first time in 10 years and solidfied their power this year with a supermajority. Ortt is the first Republican leader in the state Senate from western New York in half a century. 

"Together, we represent millions of New Yorkers across this state who want a strong voice," he said. "Our Senate Republican Conference will be that amplified voice to stand up and represent those everyday New Yorkers."