Senator Jeremy J. Zellner proudly represents New York’s 61st Senate District, which includes parts of the City of Buffalo, the City of Tonawanda, the Towns of Amherst, Grand Island, and Tonawanda, as well as the Villages of Kenmore and Williamsville.
A lifelong Democratic leader, Senator Zellner has dedicated his career to supporting working families, promoting fair elections, and strengthening inclusive political institutions across Western New York. The son and grandson of autoworkers, he grew up understanding the importance of unions and the vital role the Democratic Party plays in advancing economic opportunity and security for everyday families.
Raised in a single-parent household, Zellner experienced firsthand how union benefits provided access to healthcare and essential services. Those experiences shaped his commitment to ensuring that government works for all communities, particularly those historically underserved.
After earning a bachelor’s degree in political science from Buffalo State College, Zellner began his public service career as a volunteer with the Erie County Democratic Party. He went on to serve as chief of staff to the Erie County Legislature, executive director of the Erie County Democratic Committee, and chairman of the Erie County Democratic Party. Throughout his leadership, he modernized voter outreach, expanded digital engagement, and strengthened the Party’s advocacy for working families, organized labor, and marginalized communities.
Zellner also served as commissioner of the Erie County Board of Elections, where he helped make the Board a statewide model, implementing New York’s most expansive early voting program and ensuring elections were accessible, transparent, and secure. He has also represented Erie County Democrats at the national level, serving on the Hillary for America National Finance Committee and as a delegate to the Democratic National Convention in 2016 and 2024.
As a newly elected senator, Zellner is focused on delivering results for the residents of the 61st District. His priorities include expanding economic opportunity for working families, ensuring affordable living; including low utility rates, affordable housing, and childcare—improving public safety, strengthening infrastructure and public services, and maintaining transparent, accountable, and responsive government.
Zellner and his wife, Carrie, are raising their two children in the City of Tonawanda, where he remains deeply connected to the community that shaped his values and dedication to public service.