The phrase "veteran legislator" refers to an experienced and long-serving politician who has been in office for a significant amount of time. Full definition
A 2011 law ended pensions for any lawmakers first elected to the State Legislature after that time, but didn't apply to the vast majority of veteran legislators who have long enjoyed a re-election rate of better than 90 percent. (newsday.com)
If the results hold up after the absentee votes are counted, the GOP won't even need the support of veteran legislator John Parete (1038), who appears to have kept his seat running as an independent candidate representing the northwestern part of the county in a tight three - way race with Democratic nominee Kathy Nolan (1018) and Republican Cliff Faintych (748). (hudsonvalleyone.com)
Not that holding the majority means much in the larger scheme of county affairs, but already veteran legislators are jockeying for chairman and other leadership positions next year. (hudsonvalleyone.com)