Emérita Torres

Political Party: Democratic

District: New York State Assembly District 85

Emérita Torres is a lifelong Bronx resident of Puerto Rican heritage who represents the 85th Assembly District, which includes Hunts Point, Longwood, Soundview, Clason Point, and Harding Park. She was elected to the New York State Assembly in 2025 and brings over 20 years of progressive experience in public policy, diplomacy, and advocacy to her role.

Torres's journey began in humble circumstances—her parents relied on public assistance programs and rent-stabilized housing, making her the first in her family to graduate from college. She grew up witnessing economic hardship, which has fueled her commitment to breaking systemic barriers and ensuring equitable access to opportunity.

Education

Torres earned a B.A. in History from New York University and a Master's in Public Policy from the Harvard Kennedy School of Government. She is a Term Member of the Council on Foreign Relations, a Truman National Security Fellow, and has been recognized by New America as a Latinx National Security and Foreign Policy leader.

Political Experience and Notable Achievements

Before her election to the Assembly, Torres served as Vice President of Policy, Research, and Advocacy at the Community Service Society, New York's leading anti-poverty organization. In this capacity, she spearheaded data-driven campaigns that included:

• Expanding New York's half-price MetroCard program
• Advancing tenants' rights and homeownership opportunities
• Reforming the city's rental assistance programs
• Co-leading efforts to address the cost-of-living crisis through the National True Cost of Living Coalition

Torres brings a decade of experience as a U.S. diplomat with the Department of State, serving in Brazil, Pakistan, Colombia, Washington D.C., and the United Nations. During her diplomatic career, she advised U.S. Ambassadors and cabinet-level officials on policy strategy, managed multi-million dollar grant programs, and engaged in multilateral negotiations. She received three Meritorious Honor Awards and a Superior Honor Award for her diplomatic service.

Additionally, Torres served as Director of Policy Research and Programs at The Soufan Center, where she addressed national security challenges including disinformation, terrorism, and authoritarianism. Her advocacy led to the sanctioning of the first white supremacist group in U.S. history.

Torres has also served on the boards of the Bronx River Arts Center and the Women's Housing and Economic Development Corporation , advancing initiatives in arts, housing, and economic development. She was recently elected State Committeewoman in her home district in the Bronx.