Bronx Assemblywoman Latoya Joyner (A.D. 77) announced a surprise resignation on Thursday, Jan. 4, prompting the expected scheduling of a special election by the governor.

 

The assemblywoman, who took office in 2015, released a statement on Thursday, saying, “It has been my great honor to serve as the Assembly Member representing the 77th Assembly District, for almost a decade.”

 

She added, “Serving in this capacity has been an immense privilege. The victories we achieved together – for Bronx families, our community, and New Yorkers across the state – will forever be among my proudest accomplishments. “I’m eternally grateful to my constituents, legislative team, union leaders, community partners, and fellow public servants who stood alongside me throughout this remarkable journey.”

 

Joyner, who broadly represents some or all of the Bronx neighborhoods of Highbridge, Mt. Eden, Morris Heights, and Mt. Eden, continued, “After careful consideration and with much difficulty, I have decided to bring this chapter of my life to a close. Effective, Monday, January 8th at midnight, I am resigning from office.”

 

The assemblywoman added, “While I am leaving public service, I am pursuing an exciting new opportunity that will allow me to continue serving our community, and state in fresh ways. I’m confident this next endeavor will offer more valuable personal and professional growth, ultimately enabling me to contribute even more effectively in the future.”

 

She concluded, “From my first days in the State Capitol as an Assembly intern to subsequently having the privilege of representing the people of my community and serving as Chair of the Assembly Labor Committee, I have always felt that state government plays a critical role in shaping the lives of all New Yorkers. My commitment to service remains unwavering. I will never forget the people of the 77th Assembly District and deeply appreciate the lessons, experiences, and support through the years.”

 

In response to the announcement, Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson released a statement, saying, “I have known Assemblywoman Latoya Joyner for over fifteen years, and it has been an absolute honor working alongside her on behalf of the residents of Assembly District 77 and seeing her grow as a leader and public servant.”

 

The borough president continued, “During her tenure as Chair of the Labor Committee in the New York State Assembly, she was a tireless advocate for pay parity, wage justice, workers’ rights, unions, and employment protections for our most marginalized New Yorkers and was influential in bringing salary transparency to our state. She has left an indelible mark on our communities and undoubtedly will be missed by all of us in The Bronx.”

Gibson concluded, “As a mentee of the late great Assemblywoman Aurelia Greene, who prepared us both for careers in public service, I know Mrs. Greene’s legacy will continue to guide and support Assemblywoman Joyner as she embarks on her new chapter. We are wishing her the very best on her next journey and look forward to seeing her continued service in the future.”

The Bronx Democratic Party also gave its reaction to the news, writing, “After almost a decade of service to the people of the 77th Assembly District, Assemblywoman Latoya Joyner has announced her resignation. We would like to thank Assemblywoman Joyner for her unwavering commitment and tireless efforts in representing the Bronx’s 77th Assembly District.”

 

The statement continued, “Assemblywoman Joyner has made a lasting impact on both Albany and the local community. Her advocacy spanned critical issues such as affordable housing, education, and domestic violence. Importantly, she also chaired the labor committee and secured important wins for working people.

 

During her tenure, Assemblywoman Joyner was a staunch supporter of rent regulation and tenant protection and previously advocated for a freeze on the 33,000 rent-regulated apartments in her district. Assemblymember Joyner also championed increased funding for the Bronx Children’s Museum and secured security upgrades for NYCHA developments.”

 

It continued, “Assemblywoman Joyner’s impact on education is evident through her support for Educational Opportunity Programs (EOP) and the reinstatement of the New York Legal Educational Opportunity Program (LEO). She also utilized her legal expertise to help unrepresented individuals reach settlements on various issues.

 

A product of New York’s public educational system, Assemblywoman Joyner earned her law degree from the University at Buffalo Law School. She served as a community liaison in the district office of Assemblywoman Aurelia Greene and contributed to Community Board 4 and the Neighborhood Advisory Board.”

 

The party wrote that New York Gov. Kathy Hochul will have 10 days to announce e special election date in the 77th Assembly District. “We look forward to the continuation of Assemblywoman Joyner’s legacy through the selection of a nominee via the county committee,” the statement continued.

 

The party concluded, “Assemblywoman Latoya Joyner has been a dedicated public servant, and we wish her the very best in her future endeavors.”