While visiting Rochester Friday, Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul praised the late Assemblyman David Gantt.

She says he did a lot for the Finger Lakes region, and inspired Rochester Mayor Lovely Warren to pursue a career in public service.

"It's a real loss to all of us," Hochul said. "I cannot imagine the assembly without David Gantt's influence and the pride with which he carried himself in representing his district. He's been in office since 1983 in this capacity. First African American elected out of Monroe County, so he paved the way for a lot of other individuals and that'll always be a part of his legacy."