This compares to neighboring assemblyman Phil Palmesano sponsoring 137 bills in the same time.

[3] He was named a National Science Foundation IGERT Fellow and has published more than 20 scientific papers and symposia.

The seat had become vacant after former Assemblyman Tom O'Mara ran successfully for the New York State Senate.

[4] On June 3, 2020 Friend, along with David DiPietro, were the only two assemblymen to voted against the Digital Fair Repair Act.

[5] Friend resides in Big Flats with his wife Renée and their four children: Brianna, Joshua, Ashley, and Elijah.