Michael Mills officially kicked off his campaign for New York State Senate District 54 with a rally at Commons Park, promising to give the Finger Lakes region a stronger voice in Albany.
Mills, a Democrat and current Canandaigua City Council member, made the announcement Friday surrounded by supporters. The election will be held in November 2026.
In his remarks, Mills criticized Albany for overlooking the financial contributions and unique challenges of the Finger Lakes region.
“The past decade of service to the Finger Lakes made clear that people in Albany aren’t aware of our region’s financial impact and unique challenges,” he said. “Our district deserves a seat at the table and a qualified representative who will be heard.”
Mills brings nearly 30 years of public policy experience, with work spanning federal, state, and local levels. He owns a communications consulting firm and has worked on issues ranging from energy efficiency to healthcare access and small business development.
Locally, he has served on the Town of Canandaigua Economic Development Committee, as vice chair of the Ontario County Chamber of Commerce Board, and as executive director of the Geneva Business Improvement District.
Mills outlined four core priorities for his campaign:
- Economic opportunity and jobs: He pledged to expand career training in trades, agriculture, hospitality, and senior care.
- Improving affordability: Mills said he would push for investments in housing, childcare, and local business support to lower the cost of living.
- Essential services and safety: He emphasized the need for funding in emergency response, clean water, Medicaid, and reliable roads and bridges.
- Environmental protection: Mills vowed to fight against the exploitation of the Finger Lakes and protect local lakes and natural resources.
New York’s 54th Senate District includes Livingston, Ontario, and Wayne counties, along with parts of Monroe County and is currently represented by Republican Sen. Pam Helming.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].