BUFFALO, N.Y. — Former state Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno has died at age 91.
Bruno rose from poverty to become one of New York’s most powerful politicians for more than a decade starting in the mid-1990s. He was a crucial Republican ally of former Gov. George Pataki, helping usher in tax cuts and other conservative legislation.
Bruno ended his state Senate career in 2008 after three decades. In 2009, he was convicted of two corruption charges. He had them overturned on appeal and was acquitted at a second trial. He died Tuesday.
The news of Bruno's passing was announced in a statement Wednesday morning from New York GOP Chairman Nick Langworthy.
Langworthy released a statement saying in part, "There aren’t adequate words to encapsulate Senator Bruno’s life and legacy, but simply put, he was a giant."
The statement goes on to say, "He lived his life with purpose and gusto, and his legacy on behalf of New York and our Republican Party will never be forgotten."
Several other local lawmakers are also remembering his legacy.
New York State Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt also released a statement Wednesday saying in part, "He was a rare, true giant for his community, for middle-class taxpayers, for Upstate New York, and for the Republican Party. While our legislative careers did not overlap, he still served as a valuable teacher and confidant to me and so many others."
New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli says New York State lost an icon with Bruno passing. DiNapoli released a statement about Bruno saying in part, "A tough negotiator and straight-talker, he was also beloved by so many for his kindness and great sense of humor."
Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay says Bruno will be remembered as one of the legislature's true icons and fearless leaders. He released a statement saying in part, "The passing of former Senate Majority Leader Joe Bruno is a tremendous loss felt across the state of New York. Throughout his life and career, he was a fighter and fierce champion for the people of his district and for millions of New Yorkers, especially those upstate."