Demond Meeks
Born and raised in Rochester, NY, Assemblyman Demond Meeks is a dedicated public servant who has worked tirelessly to strengthen our community. Throughout his life, Assemblyman Meeks has been a stalwart advocate for quality education, housing, childcare, fair wages, worker rights, and other key issues facing residents and families. Demond’s educational background includes an Associate’s Degree from Monroe Community College and a BA from SUNY Brockport.
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“I’m ready to raise revenue so that NYS can provide for all those who are struggling during the current crisis. As New York faces an unprecedented budget deficit of $60 billion over the next four years, we need to turn away from the failed austerity lens that plagues our failing economy.”
(Official legislative newsroom (nyassembly.gov)) “IMAGINE the opportunity to provide the youth of Rochester with a quality education taught by teachers who are not anticipating the next round of layoffs and budget cuts but are able to provide each student with a textbook they can take home.”
(Official legislative newsroom (nyassembly.gov)) “Budgets are about choices and Governor Cuomo continues to protect billionaires over children. We must raise taxes on the ultra-rich so we can ensure all children have access to high quality public schools in their neighborhood.If we have learned anything during this pandemic it's that, systemic inequity and racism plagues education in New York.”
(Official legislative newsroom (nyassembly.gov))Dave Ferris
Dave Ferris (Republican Party, Conservative Party) is running for election to the New York State Assembly to represent District 137. Ferris is on the ballot in the general election on November 3, 2026. Ferris advanced from the Republican primary on June 23, 2026.
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Mercedes Vazquez-Simmons
Independent (Mercedes Simmons Cares)
Mercedes Vazquez-Simmons (Mercedes Simmons Cares Party, Democratic Party) is running for election to the New York State Assembly to represent District 137. Vazquez-Simmons is on the ballot in the general election on November 3, 2026. Vazquez-Simmons lost in the Democratic primary on June 23, 2026.
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“It is with excitement, commitment, and resolve that I offer my skills and experience in leadership and seek your vote and support as your New York State Assembly Member representing District 137 in the City of Rochester and Town of Gates, New York.”
(Campaign website (mercedes2026.com)) “Mother, daughter, granddaughter, advocate, professional, community leader - these are the qualities that proudly make me the woman that I am.”
(Campaign website (mercedes2026.com)) “As a native Rochesterian, the product of the public-school systems and a local business owner with an international presence, my insight and culture afford me a perspective most effective in fulfilling and enhancing the job requirements.”
(Campaign website (mercedes2026.com))