Morinello announces retirement from Assembly, endorses Rebecca Wydysh as successor

Submitted by the Office of Assemblyman Angelo Morinello

After five terms representing the people of New York State Assembly District 145, Assemblyman Angelo Morinello on Wednesday announced he will not seek reelection, marking the conclusion of a decade of public service dedicated to community engagement, responsive constituent services and bipartisan cooperation.

“It has been the honor of my lifetime to serve the residents of the 145th Assembly District,” Morinello said. “From Grand Island to the Town of Porter, Niagara Falls, Lewiston, Cambria, Wheatfield, and everywhere in between, I have always believed that public service means being present, accessible and responsive to the needs of the people we represent.”

Throughout his time in the Assembly, Morinello built a reputation as a hands-on legislator with a strong focus on constituent services – helping families navigate state agencies, advocating for veterans and seniors, supporting local businesses and working closely with community organizations, first responders and municipal leaders. His office was consistently recognized for its responsiveness and effectiveness on behalf of residents.

Morinello also emphasized his commitment to bipartisanship, noting that meaningful progress often comes from cooperation rather than division.

“I have always worked with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to deliver results for our district,” he said. “Whether it was public safety, infrastructure, economic development or quality-of-life issues, I believed then – as I do now – that collaboration is essential to good government.”

As part of his announcement, Morinello formally endorsed Rebecca Wydysh – a former Niagara County legislator and Niagara County Legislature chair – to succeed him as assembly member for the 145th District.

“Rebecca Wydysh brings energy, integrity and a deep commitment to our community,” Morinello said. “She understands the needs of this district and shares my belief in accessible representation; strong constituent services; and practical, bipartisan leadership. I am confident she will be an outstanding advocate for our region in Albany.”

In closing, Morinello expressed gratitude to his family, staff, local leaders and constituents.

“This role has never been about one person – it has been about service,” he said. “I am deeply thankful for the trust placed in me over the past five terms, and I look forward to continuing my involvement in the community in new ways.”

New York State Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt said, “Angelo Morinello has dedicated his life to service. Whether that be serving our nation overseas, on the bench of his hometown, or in Albany on behalf of the residents of Niagara County, he has always put others first. I’m fortunate to not only call him a colleague, but also a friend. 

“His advocacy in the halls of the state Capitol will be greatly missed, but I know in the remaining months of his term he will continue to do the work for the constituents of his district enthusiastically, as he has done for nearly a decade.

“It’s been an honor serving the people of New York alongside Assemblyman Morinello, and I wish him the best in his retirement and future endeavors.”

Chairman Michael Kracker said, “The Erie County Republican Committee congratulates Angelo Morinello on his remarkable service and leadership as he announces his retirement from the New York State Assembly.

“From his time in combat in Vietnam, to the bench, and throughout his tenure in the state Assembly, Angelo Morinello has set an example of what public service is all about. He has been a forceful advocate for Erie and Niagara counties, delivering results for his constituents and standing up for law and order, common sense, and his community.

“Assemblyman Morinello leads with integrity, works to get things done, and has earned respect across the board. On behalf of the Erie County Republican Committee, we thank the Judge for his service and wish him the very best in the next chapter.”