Sen. Andrew Lanza has been tapped to become the deputy minority leader in the Republican conference in the state Senate, Minority Leader Robert Ortt on Tuesday announced. 

“Senator Lanza is the perfect partner to lead our Senate Republican Conference forward," Ortt said. He is a seasoned prosecutor and will be a strong and articulate defender of our members’ values in the same way he has been for his constituents on Staten Island. He has consistently stood up for individual freedom, small business, our law enforcement, and against Bill de Blasio and his socialist allies."

Lanza provides regional balance for Ortt, a Western New York lawmaker who took the minority leader post earlier this year. Sen. Joe Griffo last week announced he would step aside as the deputy leader, a job that includes being the primary floor leader for the conference. 

“It is an honor to serve as the Senate Republican Deputy Leader during these challenging times," Lanza said. "While arrogant and misguided policies have put our State in a downward spiral, I am confident that we can turn the tide and put New York back on track. Together with Senator Ortt and my fellow Senators, we will give a voice to the millions of New Yorkers who know that public safety, education, justice, and free market economic opportunity for all is the pathway to a better life. We shall fight back government infringements upon the liberty of our citizens, and unleash the spirit and genius of our people to change the trajectory of New York ever upward."