Democratic Assemblywoman Nathalia Fernandez (A.D. 80) has declared victory in her State senate general election race in S.D. 34, having secured 64.74 percent of the total votes by 10.55 p.m. on Election Night, based on early voting and Election Day vote unofficial tallies. Absentee and overseas ballots still have to be counted. Her opponent, Republican, Samantha Zherka, won 35.16 percent of the vote on Election Night, as reported. Fernandez is set to become the first Latina to serve in the redrawn district, if elected.

 

The assemblywoman released a statement on Election Night, saying, “I’m proud to share this victory for the people of The Bronx and Westchester with our community. I’m proud of the incredible work our campaign has accomplished to elevate the voices of the people of the 34th District, and I promise to keep the people of District 34 at the focus of everything I do in the State Senate.”

 

She went on to say that the victory was an achievement, not just for her, but for the Latino community of Westchester. “I’m proud to be the first Latina, and person of color, to represent State Senate District 34, and to lead in a way that reflects the incredibly diverse fabric of this district,” she said.

 

Fernandez continued, perhaps in reference to those elected officials who continue to deny the validity of U.S. President Joe Biden’s 2020 presidential win, “Now, more than ever, we need legislators that are public servants, first. For over ten years, I have devoted myself to serving the community, and working at every level of government to find solutions for the biggest issues facing the area. Our campaign made fighting for climate resiliency, stronger local business, and improved transit access a priority. We engaged directly with thousands of voters and listened to the needs of the community, reaching every neighborhood that makes up District 34.”

 

Fernandez said that Election Night was about so much more than one campaign, or winning one seat. “It’s about keeping responsive leadership in Albany to fight for State Senate District 34. I’ve been proud to work towards that over the course of this year, and I will continue that transparent and responsive leadership as your next State Senator,” she said. “This victory belongs to all of us.”

 

A “farewell party” and protest was held outside the assemblywoman’s office on Williamsbridge Road in Morris Park on Monday, Nov. 7, the day before Election Day. It was attended by Republicans and other residents opposed to the building of a facility on the grounds of Jacobi Medical Center, located in Morris Park, with the aim of helping to treat ill Rikers Island inmates.

 

The residents wanted Fernandez to come out in opposition to the facility. She addressed the matter during a previous debate held before the Democratic primary. A video extract of the protest can be watched here. Northwest Bronx Democrats founder, Anthony Rivieccio, addressed the crowd during the rally.

For a summary of other Statewide and North Bronx unofficial general election results as of Election Night, click here.

 

Click here for some more previous election-related coverage on Fernandez.