Pheffer Amato Will Not Seek Re-Election in 2026

By Katie McFadden

Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato announced on Monday, November 17, her decision to not seek re-election in 2026.

After an online report by The Wave, a spokesperson for Pheffer Amato released a statement confirming the news, without giving a reason for Pheffer Amato’s decision. The assemblywoman has served Rockaway’s District 23 since 2017, after winning the 2016 election. She was elected after then Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder announced that he would not seek re-election in 2016. Prior to Goldfeder, Pheffer Amato’s mother and now Queens County Clerk Audrey Pheffer held the seat for 24 years. Stacey’s win was historic in that it marked the first mother-daughter duo to be elected to the state legislature in New York.

In the press release on her decision, Pheffer Amato reflected on her time in office.

“I love being in public service and representing the people of the 23rd Assembly District has been the honor of a lifetime,” Pheffer Amato said. “My team and I have built a seven-days-a-week, 365-days-a-year operation to make sure this district is well served and through that, I have had the joy of meeting with and delivering for thousands of our neighbors when they need help. But after 10 years in this position, it is time to move on and serve my community in other capacities.”

The release did not say what her next steps will be, but reflected on her accomplishments, calling Pheffer Amato “a tireless community advocate. She has always been able to help make government work for her community as she has been responsible for resolving over 10,000 individual constituent cases. She has also been one of Albany’s most prolific legislators, helping to pass hundreds of pieces of legislation and particularly fighting for the police, teachers, firefighters, nurses, and other public employees throughout New York State.”

Pheffer Amato has made a strong impact in the state assembly, having passed the most bills out of any assembly member during the most recent legislative session, and 69 overall during her time in office. In addition to passing bills supporting first responders, Pheffer Amato has also passed pieces of legislation to commemorate and honor those who responded to the attacks on 9/11, and historic legislation for women facing breast cancer.

“This district is a pure snapshot of NYS: we are diverse, hardworking, big hearted, and have…countless opinions on every topic. The people inspire me every day and have been the best part of this job. I am proud to be part of this wonderful community and proud of the work we have done together,” Pheffer Amato added.

Pheffer Amato’s current term comes to an end on January 1, 2027, when the next assembly member will be sworn in. Who that could be remains open. In her last two races, Pheffer Amato faced republican challenger Thomas Sullivan of Breezy Point, who she defeated by a narrow margin in 2022 and 2024. At this time, Sullivan and no other challengers have announced a decision to run in 2026.