Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon Celebrated at Farewell Party

Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon marked the end of her eight-year tenure representing the 119th Assembly District as family and local veterans gathered for a farewell party at the 72 Tavern & Grill on Thursday night, WKTV reported.

Deciding not to seek re-election, Buttenschon concluded her time in office. Her son, Jerrad, reflected on watching his mother’s career unfold.

“To see what she’s accomplished and to see now what, when I look back, everything she’s built on and has grown to is just absolutely insane and amazing.”

said Jerrad, a teacher in Rome, who told WKTV that observing his mother’s dedication inspired him to put extra effort into his own daily work.

Reflecting on her time in the Assembly, Buttenschon shared mixed feelings about stepping away.

“I know I’m going to miss it, truly. Met a lot of great people… The support I’ve had has been overwhelming from so many different areas, I just have to say thank you. It’s been so fulfilling,” she told WKTV.

Throughout her tenure, Buttenschon focused heavily on veteran advocacy. Several local veterans attended Thursday’s gathering to discuss ongoing challenges facing former service members, including Joe Friaccola, Commander of CNY Chapter 490 Order of the Purple Heart; Thomas Buono, President of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 944; Jack LoMedico, Utica councilman; and Larry Badger, Vice President of Vietnam Veterans Chapter 944.

Friaccola pointed to the rising number of veteran suicides and the pressing need for expanded resources for homeless veterans. Buono emphasized the ongoing struggle for better healthcare access.

“Marianne’s been with us for forever. She’s done everything we ever asked her to do and she’s done over and above. She’s always there for us no matter what.”

Buono said he hopes her successor gives “us 50% for veterans what Marianne did.”

Buono said that Buttenschon consistently supported legislative priorities and helped secure grants for veterans. Discussing national politics, Buttenschon stressed the importance of bipartisan collaboration.

“My one bit of advice to anyone that’s running is to remind them it’s not about you; it’s about the people you represent,” she said.

Jerrad said that his mother continued working for her constituents right up until the final stretch of her term.

“She’s a giver. She’s somebody who fights for what’s right. I can’t even count on fingers and toes how many people have come to me that said, Democrat or Republican, my mom has done everything for everybody,” he told WKTV.