SCHENEVUS, N.Y. --- Republican Peter Oberacker took the oath of office on Friday beginning his term as Senator of the 51st District. The district serves nine counties including Otsego and Herkimer County.
Senator Oberacker was sworn in at the Town of Maryland courthouse, where his mother, Carol Oberacker served as a town just for over 25 years.
Due to COVID, the swearing-in ceremony was kept small. Only close family and friends were allowed to attend. Oberakcer said after touring the area, he is keen on getting to work.
“Families and individuals along with our small businesses, schools, local governments, and countless community groups have persevered during the COVID pandemic – that is our nature here in upstate New York. Now, as we prepare to open a new legislative session, it is time for Albany to take commonsense steps to truly improve our state," said Oberacker.
One of Oberacker's first actions in office will be co-sponsoring a bill with Assemblyman John Salka that will attempt to fix issues with bail reform. Oberacker also plans on addressing rural broadband as well as other issues.
“Delivering high-speed broadband for all, strengthening our Main Street businesses, investing in our farms, and backing our first responders and frontline health care providers are just a few initiatives I will fight for in my first term," said Oberacker.
Oberacker succeeds Republican Jim Seward, who held the position for 34 years.
