The phrase "upstate lawmakers" refers to the politicians or elected officials who represent and make laws specifically for the northern or inland regions of a state, away from the main urban area. Full definition
Aside from the «three men in the room,» upstate lawmakers in particular will be the ones to watch. (timesunion.com)
That proposal met stiff resistance from upstate lawmakers who represent districts near the Canadian border and from Canadian officials themselves who feared that it would harm cross-border economic traffic. (nydailynews.com)
Much of the push - back against closures, she has maintained, come from union members and upstate lawmakers who want to protect the jobs associated with youth centers. (timesunion.com)