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D
Asm. Anna Kelles
District 125
Democrat
First elected 2021
Anna Kelles has represented AD-125, a D+28 district anchored by a 48.9% Democratic registration advantage over 20.7% Republican, since first winning election in 2021; she ran uncontested in both 2022 and 2024, and the district is rated Safe D across all modeled electoral environments, consistent with a long history of Democratic dominance in this seat. The district spans a predominantly white (78.1%) population of 134,489 with a median household income of $72,266, a 16.1% poverty rate, and a notably high educational attainment rate of 52.3% with a bachelor's degree or higher, reflecting the Ithaca-area college-town character of the constituency. Kelles sponsored 119 bills in the 2025 session, with Environmental Conservation leading at 19 bills, followed by Education at 11, Tax at 8, Public Health at 7, and Agriculture and Markets at 6, reflecting a legislative identity concentrated on environmental and public health policy. Her floor session activity reinforces this focus, with sponsored legislation addressing microplastics filtration, food chemical disclosure, and open water data, alongside Agriculture and Markets law amendments.AI
Vulnerability Index AD-125
Base lean: D+34
Favorable D
Neutral
Favorable R
- Limited contested election data — registration lean used as primary signal
- Ran uncontested in most recent election
Scenario model: ±5pt national environment shift applied to district base lean (D+34). Base lean blends voter registration (40%) with recent contested general election margins (60%), using up to the last 4 general elections with margins under 40 points. Ratings: Safe D/R = 15+ pts, Likely = 8–14 pts, Lean = 3–7 pts, Toss-up = within 2 pts. Generic ballot from Silver Bulletin (Nate Silver), as of 5/1/2026. Not a prediction — reflects structural competitiveness under different cycle environments.
Electoral History AD-125
General Elections
| Year | Winner | Runner-up | Margin |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Anna Kelles 100.0% (44,304) | Uncontested | — |
| 2022 | Anna Kelles 100.0% (32,321) | Uncontested | — |
| 2020 | Anna Kelles 68.9% (37,673) | Matthew McIntyre 31.1% (17,028) | 37.8pts |
| 2018 | Barbara S. Lifton 100.0% (35,459) | Uncontested | — |
| 2016 | Barbara S. Lifton 69.9% (35,416) | Herbert Masser, Jr. 30.1% (15,264) | 39.8pts |
| 2014 | Barbara S. Lifton 66.8% (21,335) | Herbert Masser, Jr. 33.2% (10,581) | 33.6pts |
| 2012 | Barbara S. Lifton 100.0% (36,896) | Uncontested | — |
| 2010 | Barbara S. Lifton 62.5% (22,410) | Thomas A. Reynolds 37.5% (13,444) | 25.0pts |
| 2008 | Barbara S. Lifton 100.0% (34,768) | Uncontested | — |
| 2006 | Barbara S. Lifton 67.4% (24,066) | Jim R. Rohan 32.6% (11,654) | 34.8pts |
| 2004 | Barbara S. Lifton 100.0% (33,194) | Uncontested | — |
| 2002 | Barbara S. Lifton 57.9% (19,704) | Michael J. Sigler 40.2% (13,708) | 17.7pts |
| 2000 | Martin A. Luster 100.0% (30,764) | Uncontested | — |
| 1998 | Martin А. Luster 63.7% (21,792) | Jeannine А. Kirby 36.3% (12,431) | 27.4pts |
| 1996 | Martin A. Luster 70.1% (29,941) | Wilson V. Kone 29.9% (12,787) | 40.2pts |
Primary Elections
| Year | Winner | Runner-up | Margin |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 (Democratic) | Anna Kelles 36.0% (5,509) | Seph Murtagh 21.8% (3,340) | 14.2pts |
| 2002 (Democratic) | Barbara S. Lifton 62.3% (3,880) | Daniel Lowry Lamb 19.1% (1,187) | 43.2pts |
| 1998 (Conservative) | Jeanine Kirby 100.0% (18) | Uncontested | — |
Source: NYS Board of Elections certified results. ⚡ = margin under 10 pts. District history reflects 2022 redistricted boundaries.
Voter Registration
District 125 Profile
Population
134,489
Median income
$72,266
Median rent
$1,305
Homeownership
55.2%
Education (BA+)
52.3%
Poverty rate
16.1%
Uninsured rate
4.3%
Unemployment rate
5.3%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates (2024).
Demographics
White
78.1%
Black
3.8%
Hispanic
6.1%
Asian
8.3%
Median age
32.5
Foreign born
10.8%
Limited English households
1.5%
Veterans
3.9%
Disability rate
12.6%
Commute Mode
Drive alone
55.7%
Public transit
3.9%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Estimates (2024). Race and ethnicity figures may not sum to 100% — Hispanic/Latino is an ethnicity category that overlaps with racial groups.
Legislative Activity (2025–2026)
Bills sponsored
119
Joint hearing appearances
3
Floor debate appearances
25
Years in office
5
Bill sponsorship from NYS Open Legislation API. Joint hearing appearances from NYS Senate hearing transcripts.
Floor Session Activity 2025–2026
A01556-G
2026-04-21
Food Safety and Chemical Disclosure Act
The Assembly debated A01556-G, the Food Safety and Chemical Disclosure Act, sponsored by Assemblywoman Kelles, which would ban three chemicals (Red Dye No. 3, potassium bromate, and propylparaben) and require manufacturers to disclose safety analysis data to the state. Kelles argued the disclosure requirement addresses a gap in federal law, where disclosure is voluntary, and noted the banned chemicals are already prohibited in multiple states and the EU. Assemblywoman Walsh, speaking for the minority, raised concerns about the bill's estimated $21 million cost over three years, potential 12% increases in grocery prices, and the creation of a new state regulatory burden that could cause companies to stop shipping products to New York. The bill includes a three-year transition period for retailers and exempts small businesses under 100 employees. The debate was ongoing at the end of the transcript segment, with additional members seeking to question the sponsor.
A07796
PASSED
2026-03-23
An act to amend the Public Officers Law, in relation to accessing records under the Freedom of Information Law
A04716-D
2026-03-18
Washing Machine Microfiber Filtration Act
The Assembly debated A04716-D, the Washing Machine Microfiber Filtration Act, sponsored by Assemblywoman Kelles, which would require washing machines sold in New York State after January 1, 2030 to include microfiber filtration systems. Kelles argued that microplastics from washing machines contribute approximately 30 percent of ocean microplastics and have been found in human brains and tissues, causing inflammation and health risks. She noted that filter technology already exists and is used in Europe, with some filters capturing up to 98 percent of microfibers. However, multiple Assembly members raised significant concerns. Assemblyman Mikulin questioned why washing machines are regulated rather than the textile industry and noted that no U.S. states have yet implemented such requirements. Assemblyman Manktelow expressed concern that the bill simply moves microplastics from water systems to landfills, potentially contaminating New York's freshwater resources including Lake Ontario and the Finger Lakes. Assemblyman Lemondes questioned whether alternative disposal methods like incineration were explored and warned the microfibers could eventually be classified as hazardous waste. Assemblyman Bologna raised concerns about consumer compliance with filter maintenance and questioned the actual cost increase to consumers. The bill had not been voted on at the conclusion of this transcript segment.
A04849
PASSED
2026-03-18
Microplastics in washing machines - filter requirement
The Assembly passed legislation requiring washing machines sold in New York to include filters preventing microplastics from entering wastewater. Sponsor Assemblywoman Kelles argued microplastics are a widespread environmental and health threat found in water, soil, air, and human bodies, and that the technology has existed for two decades. She noted support from farmers, hunters, and bipartisan backing. Opponents, including Assemblywoman Giglio, cited California Governor Newsom's 2023 veto of similar legislation due to affordability concerns and questioned why New York should be the first state to impose such requirements. Assemblyman Sempolinski opposed the bill as an example of New York imposing costly regulations that drive businesses elsewhere. The bill passed with a party vote requested, indicating mixed support across the chamber.
A09478 / S7359-A
PASSED
2026-01-21
An act to amend the Agriculture and Markets Law, in relation to establishing a New York Native Plants designation
A01029-B / S COMPANION NOT STATED
PASSED
2025-06-17
An act to amend Penal Law, in relation to individuals engaged in prostitution who are victims of or witnesses to a crime
The Assembly passed A01029-B, sponsored by Assemblywoman Kelles, which allows survivors of human trafficking and consensual adult sex workers to report crimes they experienced or witnessed without fear of arrest. The bill received bipartisan support, with members praising the sponsor for cross-aisle engagement. Kelles cited the Long Island Serial Killer case, noting that sex workers' fear of arrest prevented timely investigation of the decade-long case. The legislation is supported by law enforcement, district attorneys, and sheriffs on both sides of the aisle. Assemblyman Molitor noted the bill passed the Senate unanimously and appeared headed for unanimous passage in the Assembly as well. The measure aims to enable vulnerable populations to seek justice while providing law enforcement with critical investigative information.
A01556
2025-06-17
Food Safety and Chemical Disclosure Act
A05832-B
2025-06-17
An act to amend the Environmental Conservation Law, in relation to enacting the "PFAS Discharge Disclosure Act"
A08544
PASSED
2025-06-16
An act in relation to authorizing Mackenzie M. Covert to receive certain service credit under a 20-year retirement plan
A06192-D
2025-06-13
An act to amend the Environmental Conservation Law, in relation to establishing a moratorium on the sale and use of biosolids.
A08371-A
PASSED
2025-06-10
An act in relation to authorizing the Town of Ithaca to alienate and discontinue the use of certain parklands
A08371-A
PASSED
2025-06-10
An act in relation to authorizing the Town of Ithaca to alienate and discontinue the use of certain parklands
A05254-A
PASSED
2025-06-09
New York Open Water Data Act
A05254-A
PASSED
2025-06-09
Enact the 'New York Open Water Data Act'
A07964-A
PASSED
2025-06-06
An act to amend the Agriculture and Markets Law, in relation to establishing a New York native plants designation
A08210
PASSED
2025-06-06
An act to amend Chapter 443 of the Laws of 2007 amending the Tax Law relating to authorizing the County of Cortland to impose an additional mortgage recording tax, in relation to extending the effectiveness of such provisions
A03279-A
PASSED
2025-05-28
New York State Cryptocurrency and Blockchain Study Task Force
The Assembly passed A03279-A, establishing a New York State Cryptocurrency and Blockchain Study Task Force within the Department of Financial Services to examine the effects of widespread cryptocurrency and digital currency use. The bill, sponsored by Assemblymember Vanel, addresses concerns from prior gubernatorial vetoes by placing the task force under DFS to resolve budgeting issues. The 17-member task force will be appointed by the Governor, Senate Majority Leader, and Assembly Speaker, with a report due by December 15, 2027. Assemblymember Gandolfo questioned the absence of Minority appointments, while Assemblymember Kelles opposed the bill, arguing that cryptocurrency mining's significant environmental impact requires task force members with environmental expertise.
A02589-A
2025-05-14
An act to amend the Civil Rights Law, in relation to waiving the State's sovereign immunity to claims under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, and the Family and Medical Leave Act
A00387
PASSED
2025-05-14
An act in relation to waiving the State's sovereign immunity to claims under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, and the Family and Medical Leave Act
The Assembly passed legislation waiving New York State's sovereign immunity to allow state employees to bring claims under the Americans with Disabilities Act, Fair Labor Standards Act, Age Discrimination in Employment Act, and Family and Medical Leave Act in state or federal court. Sponsor Assemblywoman Kelles argued that the measure holds the State to the same standards as private entities and local governments, and cited precedent from four to five states that have adopted similar measures without significant fiscal impact. Assemblywoman Walsh raised concerns about the scope and cost of the bill, noting that the four federal statutes are complex and that damages available—including treble damages, compensatory damages, and attorneys' fees—could be substantial. Kelles countered that existing state laws already provide some protections and that courts can dismiss meritless cases early. The bill, which has been introduced since 2021 and was amended years ago to remove retroactivity language, passed with Kelles explaining her vote in support.
A02589-A
LAID ASIDE
2025-05-13
Waiving State sovereign immunity under federal employment and disability laws
A03009-C
PASSED
2025-05-08
Budget Bill - comprehensive tax and revenue legislation including inflation refund credit, middle-class tax cut, child tax credit enhancement, real estate investor restrictions, MTA funding changes, and various tax credit extensions
The New York State Assembly passed the comprehensive $2025-26 budget bill (A03009-C) on May 8, implementing major revenue and spending provisions including an $2 billion one-time inflation refund credit for 8.2 million New Yorkers, a phased middle-class income tax cut beginning in 2026, and a five-year extension of the millionaire tax expected to generate $4.8 billion annually. The budget also includes a three-year enhancement to the Empire State Child Tax Credit benefiting 1.6 million filers and 2.8 million children; a bell-to-bell smartphone ban in schools; universal school meals; housing access vouchers; and restrictions on institutional real estate investors requiring a 90-day waiting period before purchase. The bill reduces state revenues by $2.7 billion in fiscal year 2025-26, with out-year reductions of $1.7 billion and $1.1 billion in subsequent years. Minority Leader Ra criticized the overall spending increase of $13 billion and questioned whether the modest tax cuts and one-time rebates adequately address New York's high-tax status and business competitiveness. Assemblymember Sempolinski opposed $111 million in film tax credits, arguing the funds should prioritize wages for care workers serving vulnerable populations. Despite concerns raised during debate, the bill passed with support from the Democratic majority.
A03000-D
PASSED
2025-05-08
State Operations Budget - All-Funds appropriation of $63.6 billion for State fiscal year 2025-26
The New York State Assembly passed the $63.6 billion State Operations Budget on May 8, though not without significant controversy over a $10 million legal defense fund for state employees, including the Attorney General. The provision allows the state to pay for legal defense of employees who claim to be targeted because of their position, even in cases unrelated to official duties. Republican Assemblyman Ra criticized the language as "extremely broad," arguing it could fund defense of personal financial dealings unrelated to state service. The budget also drew fire from Assemblyman Blumencranz for lacking specific funding to combat rising anti-Semitism at CUNY and SUNY campuses despite pending federal civil rights investigations. Supporters highlighted equity-focused investments including $8.5 million for the Queens Museum, $2.75 million for transgender wellness programs, and $64.4 million for immigrant legal services. Assemblywoman Walsh voted against the entire budget, citing a $101 billion increase in state spending since 2017.
A03009-C
PASSED
2025-05-08
Budget Bill - comprehensive tax and revenue legislation including inflation refund credit, middle-class tax cut, child tax credit enhancement, real estate investor restrictions, MTA payroll tax changes, film and theatrical tax credits, and various other tax provisions
The New York State Assembly passed the $2.7 billion revenue reduction budget bill (A03009-C) on May 8, implementing major tax and spending provisions including an $2 billion one-time inflation refund credit for 8.2 million New Yorkers, a phased middle-class income tax cut beginning in 2026, and a three-year enhancement to the Empire State Child Tax Credit benefiting 1.6 million filers and 2.8 million children. The budget extends the temporary millionaire tax for five additional years, projected to generate $4.8 billion annually. The bill also includes restrictions on institutional real estate investors requiring a 90-day market waiting period and prohibiting depreciation deductions, increases to the MTA payroll tax generating $1.4 billion annually with differentiated rates for New York City and suburban zones, and extensions of film and theatrical production tax credits. Debate highlighted concerns from Minority Leader Ra about fiscal sustainability, with the budget increasing overall spending by $13 billion while creating out-year deficits approaching $29 billion. Assemblymember Sempolinski opposed the bill, criticizing $111 million in film tax credits as misaligned priorities. Members speaking in favor praised provisions including universal school meals, smartphone bans in schools, housing vouchers, and increased funding for vulnerable populations.
A03000-D
PASSED
2025-05-08
State Operations Budget - All-Funds appropriation of $63.6 billion for State fiscal year 2025-26
The New York State Assembly passed the $63.6 billion State Operations Budget on May 8, with heated debate over a controversial $10 million legal defense fund for State employees. The provision, which allows the Governor to determine eligibility for the Attorney General's legal defense in investigations potentially unrelated to official duties, drew sharp criticism from minority members who called the language "extremely broad" and warned it could allow taxpayer funding for personal legal matters. Sponsor Asm. Pretlow defended the measure as protecting State officials from politically motivated investigations. The budget also faced criticism for lacking specific line items to combat anti-Semitism at SUNY and CUNY institutions, with members noting rising attacks on Jewish students. The bill passed on a party-line vote, with Republicans voting no and Democrats voting yes. The budget includes $500 million for clean water, $25 million for environmental protection, and significant funding for immigrant services and senior programs.
A03009-C
PASSED
2025-05-08
Budget Bill - comprehensive tax and revenue legislation including inflation refund credit, middle-class tax cut, child tax credit enhancement, real estate investor restrictions, MTA funding changes, and various tax credit extensions
The New York State Assembly passed a comprehensive $2.7 billion revenue-reduction budget bill (A03009-C) on May 8, implementing major tax and spending provisions including a one-time $2 billion inflation refund credit for 8.2 million New Yorkers, a phased middle-class income tax cut beginning in 2026, and a three-year enhancement to the Empire State Child Tax Credit benefiting 1.6 million filers and 2.8 million children. The bill extends the temporary millionaire tax for five additional years, projected to generate $4.8 billion annually, and includes restrictions on institutional real estate investors requiring a 90-day market waiting period and prohibiting depreciation deductions. The budget also increases MTA funding through payroll tax changes generating $1.4 billion annually and raises the MTA bonding cap by $25 billion. Minority Leader Ra criticized the overall package as fiscally unsustainable, noting $13 billion in increased spending and nearly $29 billion in projected out-year deficits, while questioning reliance on high-income earners and repeated MTA tax increases. Assemblymember Sempolinski opposed $111 million in film tax credits as misaligned priorities. Supporters highlighted provisions including universal school meals, smartphone bans in schools, housing vouchers, and increased funding for vulnerable populations.
Source: Official NY Assembly floor session transcripts (Granicus). AI-processed. Includes sessions from 2023 onward where transcripts are available.
Bill Focus Areas 2025–2026
bills
bills
bills
bills
bills
bills
bills
bills
Grouped by law section from sponsored Assembly bills. Source: NYS Open Legislation API.
Lobbying Activity
No lobbying disclosures on record for this member in the available dataset (JCOPE filings targeting Assembly members).
Source: NY Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government via data.ny.gov.