 He was a member of the New York State Senate from 1890 to 1894, sitting in the 113th, 114th, 115th, 116th (all four 28th D.) and 117th New York State Legislatures (26th D.); and was President pro tempore in 1894.In 1890, considering the governor's objections, he made a few changes to the Ballot Reform Bill and had it passed again, and it was finally enacted.He also was largely instrumental for the Electric Execution Bill to be passed and enacted.