Republican state Sen. Robert Ortt on Wednesday was re-elected the leader of the Republicans in the chamber, the GOP conference announced. 

Ortt is set to serve another two-year term as the chamber's minority leader when the full Legislature returns to Albany in January. 

“It is incredibly humbling to earn the support of my Senate Republican colleagues to continue serving in the critical role of Minority Leader," Ortt said. "I thank my colleagues and the New Yorkers they represent for their continued trust and faith in my leadership. As we approach a New Year and new session with eight energetic new members and our outstanding returning members, our expanded Conference will continue to be a leading voice of reason and common sense in Albany. There is much more work to be done to make our state safer and more affordable for all."

Ortt was first elected minority leader in June 2020, replacing retired former Sen. John Flanagan. Ortt was first elected to the state Senate in 2014. 

In the aftermath of the 2018 election, Republicans lost majority control of the state Senate for the first time since 2008. Democrats subsequently extended their advantage to a supermajority in 2020. 

“Since becoming Leader, I have heard from countless New Yorkers who are fed up with rising costs, rising crime, and a lack of checks and balances in our State Capitol," Ortt said. "Our state’s rapidly declining population reflects that sentiment. It’s time for a change from the political establishment’s failed policies that have left families and businesses behind. My Senate Republican colleagues and I will not stop fighting for that change and the people we represent."

His counterpart in the state Assembly, Republican Will Barclay, was also re-elected his conference's leader earlier this week.