Assemblyman James Conte announced last week that he is seeking re-election to the New York State Assembly for a ninth complete term.

Conte, who first won election to the State Legislature in a special election 16 years ago on March 15, 1988, made the announcement in front of family, friends and supporters at his annual St. Patrick's Day Brunch.

"Since being elected to the Assembly, I have had many tremendous personal and professional experiences to be thankful for. Among them is my marriage, the birth of my three children and receiving the ultimate gift of life - a kidney transplant," Conte told the crowd. "I have also many numerous friends and allies to help our efforts to rebuild and restore our great Empire State."

At his fundraiser, Conte introduced Huntington resident Stephanie Fuller, whose personal story of being video-taped by her landlord, led the assemblyman to champion a new law making the unlawful video-taping of someone without their knowledge or consent a felony in New York State.

"I am so proud that my own assemblyman not only listened to me but helped me to personally tell my story to the governor and other legislative leaders," Fuller said. "Because of Assemblyman Conte's leadership, other women and children can be spared the humiliation and degradation that I endured, not only by my landlord but again in the courts."

"For 16 years I have represented the residents of the 10th Assembly District," Conte said. "I have tried to bring the suburban point of view to Albany. Our residents want to preserve our quality of life. We each want good schools, great neighborhoods and quality employment opportunities to help raise our families. I want to continue to be their voice in Albany."