Libous was a powerful presence in Albany, and was known for his advocacy for New York's Southern Tier. He was also known for his ability to work with members of both parties and for his strong working relationship with Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo. In 2008, Libous rose to the position of Deputy Majority Leader. In 2009, he played a major role in a parliamentary coup when Republicans unsuccessfully attempted to take control of the Senate with the help of two dissident Democrats. Also in 2009, he became chair of the Senate Republican Campaign Committee; in that capacity, he helped the Republicans retake the Senate majority the following year. Libous voted against same-sex marriage legislation that passed in 2011 and also voted against the 2013 gun control law known as the New York SAFE Act. Libous was an outspoken supporter of hydrofracking.