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New York State Assemblyman Michael Fitzpatrick. Photo by Toni-Elena Gallo

By Toni-Elena Gallo

In a recent meeting at the TBR News Media office for the 8th Assembly District covering Smithtown and parts of Islip, candidate Steve Basileo (D-St. James) and incumbent Michael Fitzpatrick (R-Smithtown) outlined their platforms focusing on housing, taxes, health care, renewable energy, education and school funding. Each candidate presented distinct priorities and approaches, providing voters with insight into how they would address the district’s needs.

Backgrounds and opening statements

Steve Basilieo

Basileo is a newcomer to the district’s political scene. With a master’s degree in public policy from Stony Brook University and experience as a labor organizer, he emphasized his desire to bring fresh ideas and increased visibility to the Assembly office. Basileo recounted that he has canvassed “thousands upon thousands of doors,” noting that many residents feel underrepresented in Albany. He expressed a commitment to social issues, especially reproductive rights and LGBTQ+ protections, stating that his campaign would “reflect the evolving values of this district.” Basileo, who also has experience in constituent services from an internship with Suffolk County Legislator Sam Gonzalez (D-Brentwood), said he aims to foster a more accessible and proactive Assembly presence.

Fitzpatrick has represented the district for over 22 years in the New York State Assembly and previously served for 15 years on the Smithtown Town Council. He highlighted his long tenure as evidence of his deep understanding of district issues, saying, “I believe I have reflected [the community’s] values, their aspirations, their concerns.” Fitzpatrick described himself as fiscally conservative, focused on reducing government costs and treating taxpayer dollars responsibly, likening his role to that of a fiduciary. A financial professional by background, Fitzpatrick has worked in the pension industry and emphasized his experience in managing budgets and understanding complex fiscal policies. He framed his campaign as defending “the core values” of the district, advocating for financial stability and limited government.

Cost of living, housing and taxes

Both candidates addressed the high cost of living, housing shortages and tax burdens but proposed different solutions.

• Basileo advocated for increasing housing supply, citing successful approaches in cities like Minneapolis and Austin, Texas, where additional housing has helped stabilize rents. He supported converting underused commercial spaces into mixed-use developments and expanding accessory dwelling units as long as they meet safety standards. “When you look at the numbers, build more,” he explained, adding that expanded infrastructure would support housing growth.

• Fitzpatrick agreed on the need for more housing options but stressed careful management of infrastructure, focusing on recent sewer investments and transit-focused growth in downtown areas. He expressed reservations about Gov. Kathy Hochul’s (D) proposal to override local zoning rules, saying, “The state wants to push the zoning code — that will not fly here on Long Island.” On taxes, Fitzpatrick emphasized reducing government spending through pension reform, proposing a shift from defined-benefit to defined-contribution plans for public employees to sustainably manage costs.

• Basileo discussed a different approach to government resources, focusing on local services and connecting residents to state resources. He highlighted that an active Assembly office could help secure state funding for essential projects like infrastructure upgrades.

Health care

Basileo shared a personal perspective on health care, explaining that his autism diagnosis has given him firsthand experience with the challenges of accessing reliable care. He proposed enshrining Affordable Care Act protections such as coverage for preexisting conditions into state law to protect New Yorkers from potential federal changes. Additionally, Basileo suggested introducing a public insurance option to offer a lower-cost alternative for residents, aiming to make healthcare more accessible. “It’s an affordable option for people who want it,” he said, positioning health care as a fundamental issue for district residents.

Renewable energy, environment and infrastructure

Both candidates recognized the importance of renewable energy but differed in emphasis.

• Basileo argued that renewable energy, especially wind power, is essential for Long Island. He cited the state’s planned wind training center in Suffolk County as a job creation opportunity and a way to support sustainable energy production. “There’s good job opportunities here,” he said, adding that investment in wind and solar energy would be beneficial economically and environmentally, given Long Island’s vulnerability to climate change.

• Fitzpatrick took a measured stance on renewable energy, acknowledging the promise of green initiatives while emphasizing the need for balanced infrastructure readiness. He cautioned that the environmental benefits should be weighed against costs and said heavy reliance on green energy alone may not fully address the district’s immediate needs.

Immigration and public safety

• Fitzpatrick raised concerns about immigration, focusing on its potential impact on local resources and public safety. He shared a personal story from his time in El Paso, Texas, where he witnessed crime associated with immigration issues, reinforcing his belief that current policies should consider economic and social impacts on communities. Fitzpatrick voiced opposition to public campaign financing and criticized state spending on migrant housing, contending that these funds could address local priorities instead.

• Basileo, though not directly addressing immigration, spoke broadly about his commitment to an inclusive community. He emphasized protections for marginalized groups, reflecting his campaign’s broader theme of social inclusivity and support for community programs.

Education and Foundation Aid formula

Both candidates highlighted education as an essential issue in their platforms, particularly addressing the state’s Foundation Aid formula, which determines funding allocations for school districts.

• Basileo expressed support for revisiting and revising the Foundation Aid formula to ensure that funding is equitably distributed, particularly in districts facing high costs and diverse student needs. He argued that an update to the formula would help alleviate disparities across districts and provide Long Island schools with a fair share of state funding. Drawing on his labor-organizing experience, Basileo emphasized the importance of adequately funding public education to ensure quality resources for teachers and students. “Our schools deserve more resources to meet the needs of today’s students,” he said, advocating for a more equitable funding model that considers the unique challenges of Long Island’s high-cost areas.

• Fitzpatrick acknowledged that the Foundation Aid formula impacts school funding but called for a balanced approach that includes cost control. He noted that high pension and benefit costs for educators strain school budgets and taxpayer resources. Fitzpatrick proposed measures to improve the efficiency of school spending, including pension reform, which he believes would “help school districts manage their budgets without increasing the burden on taxpayers.” He emphasized that education funding should be used effectively and advocated for vocational training programs that align with local job market needs, arguing that practical education can benefit students and strengthen the local economy.

Downtown revitalization

On redeveloping Smithtown’s Main Street, Basileo proposed using state funding to make the area more pedestrian-friendly and economically vibrant. He pointed to successful models in other Long Island towns such as Babylon and Patchogue and expressed a desire for Smithtown to benefit from similar investment. “We deserve that same kind of thing,” Basileo argued, saying that revitalizing Smithtown’s downtown could improve the quality of life for residents and attract more businesses to the area.

Fitzpatrick highlighted specific challenges in redeveloping Smithtown, citing infrastructure constraints as a significant obstacle. He explained that limited sewer capacity has historically delayed downtown growth, though recent grants have helped improve these systems. Fitzpatrick mentioned the town’s hiring of Tritech Real Estate for a redevelopment study as a step toward addressing these issues, explaining that thoughtful planning around sewers and zoning would allow Smithtown’s downtown to eventually “grow and thrive.”

Closing arguments

In his closing remarks, Basileo emphasized his commitment to accessible constituent services and modern social values. He positioned himself as a candidate aligned with the district’s younger, more socially-conscious residents, particularly on issues like health care, housing and renewable energy. He expressed a vision of a proactive, full-time Assembly office focused on inclusivity and advocacy, arguing that “the Assembly presence can be much more than it is now.”

Fitzpatrick concluded by highlighting his long tenure and dedication to fiscal responsibility, focusing on reducing taxes and preserving local autonomy. He argued that his policies align with the district’s core economic and social values, appealing to voters concerned with government spending, local governance and sustainable growth. Fitzpatrick underscored that “experience matters,” asserting that his approach offers stability and prudent stewardship of taxpayer resources.

Summary

The debate provided voters a clear contrast between Basileo’s forward-looking, service-oriented platform and Fitzpatrick’s experience-based, fiscally-conservative approach. Basileo focused on social inclusivity, renewable energy, health care access and housing solutions that would benefit from increased state investment. Fitzpatrick emphasized conservative fiscal policies, the importance of local governance and infrastructure improvements, particularly in managing costs and resources responsibly.

Each candidate offered a distinct vision for the district, with Basileo advocating for a more active role in social and environmental issues and Fitzpatrick supporting traditional economic policies and structured growth. Voters in Smithtown and parts of Islip will need to weigh these perspectives as they decide who best addresses the district’s priorities and future needs.

Summary written with assistance from ChatGPT’s services, with all information vetted by TBR’s proofreading team.

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Rebecca Kassay and NYS Assemblyman Ed Flood. Photos by Toni-Elena Gallo

By Peter Sloniewsky

In a recent debate at the TBR News Media office, New York State Assembly District 4 incumbent Ed Flood (R-Port Jefferson) and challenger Rebecca Kassay (D-Port Jefferson) highlighted their concerns regarding affordability, personal experiences in local and statewide government and their varying views on some hot-button issues. District 4 comprises Stony Brook, Setauket, Old Field, Poquott, Port Jefferson, Belle Terre, Port Jefferson Station, Terryville, Coram and Gordon Heights. 

Ed Flood

NYS Assemblyman Ed Flood

Incumbent Flood, a first-term assemblyman, previously worked as chief of staff to then-Assemblyman Dean Murray (R-Patchogue) and as assistant town attorney for the Town of Brookhaven and, until recent disbarment, ran his own law firm in Port Jefferson. In his opening statement, Flood, born in Port Jefferson Station, described a “mountain of extreme, high taxes” that he feels take away from the “dream” of Long Island life that inspired him to raise his family here. Flood’s platform largely revolves around his intention to “clamp down what we spend our money on,” and he casts himself as a vocal fiscal conservative in Albany. 

Rebecca Kassay

Democratic challenger Kassay highlighted her experiences in local politics and as a small-business owner. Describing a need for “proactive public servants,” Kassay depicted her experiences working with environmental issues as indicative of her effectiveness in uniting layers of government. Moreover, as co-founder of The Fox and Owl Inn, a Port Jefferson small business, Kassay has cast herself as being in a unique position to understand local affordability issues. She served as a trustee of Port Jefferson Village from 2020, including a spell as deputy mayor, before dropping out this year to run for the Assembly. 

Crime issues

Rebecca Kassay

Beyond his fiscal conservatism, Flood highlighted crime issues as a basis of his campaign. In addition to his opposition to bail reform passed in Albany, he made the claim that a decrease in overall crime has been counteracted with a general movement away from punishment for more petty crimes. Without punishment for such crimes, Flood argued, a small group of individuals are motivated to continue committing them. He also argued that the state Legislature is largely unresponsive to his concerns — that due to the Democratic legislative supermajority, Republican concerns over more controversial issues can go unheard and many processes of government can go on in secret. 

This led into a major subject of the debate in governmental transparency. Kassay responded that she had been irritated with Flood’s purported narrative that crime had increased, but that she was willing to increase the number of opportunities for police to interface with legislators in Albany. Moreover, Kassay made a case that her more extensive local government experience had prepared her to better deal with such concerns, and that her platform was better suited to bring more voices to the table. 

Flood’s disbarment as an attorney

This race includes controversy, as Flood was recently disbarred as an attorney. He claimed it was no fault on his part, and that he had almost entirely stopped practicing law due to his work in the Assembly, describing the timing of the process as “funny.” Kassay dissented from that description. 

Candidate intentions

Both candidates presented themselves as largely concerned about affordability, but dissented in their perception of the current Democratic administration in Albany. 

Flood claimed that “Albany has lost its way,” and presented himself as a vocal advocate for Republicans in state government. He said he was already positioned influentially on important committees and a willing bipartisan only interested in the public good.

Alternatively, Kassay emphasized her experience at the local levels of government and in community service, prioritizing better constituent service and looking forward to “greater results” than what she’s already accomplished.

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John Avlon is running for 1st Congressional District

By TBR staff

TBR News Media is endorsing John Avlon (D-Sag Harbor) to represent us in the 1st Congressional District. Mr. Lalota left us no choice since, despite multiple invitations, he did not come in for an interview.

We feel Mr. Avlon has the passion and background to excel in the position.

As a lover of history, he deeply believes in the promises of the American Dream. He urges strong education policy among students to have our next generation understand the importance of becoming civically responsible and politically informed.

One notable moment of our interview with Avlon at the TBR office was that while he feels MAGA Republicans lean dangerously right, he acknowledges left-leaning moments in our country’s history have not been productive. He believes that the only way to make progress is when both sides meet to reach a compromise so that consensus is reached, and that the people are presented with policies that will make their lives better — not more complicated. As stated on Avlon’s website, “We need to build a broad patriotic coalition to defeat Donald Trump, defend our democracy and restore the middle class with commonsense solutions.”

We thank U.S. Rep. Nick LaLota (R-Amityville) for his service in the Navy and Congress. It shows great character, and qualities of leadership, but his passion in Washington appears to have steered him away from community participation. And to reiterate, he declined to join Avlon in our office. We especially thank him for his work with Senator Kirsten Gillibrand on getting funds for our hospitals, a bipartisan bill still to voted on.

The 1st Congressional District historically has been known as a swing district for decades, although it was held by Republican Lee Zeldin from 2015 to 2023. And, while Avlon would be new to government, LaLota has only been a congressman for one term, thus making both choices relatively new to the world of national politics.

LaLota is not a rookie, though. He served as chief of staff to Suffolk County presiding officer Kevin McCaffrey (R-Lindenhurst), and additionally served on the Suffolk Board of Elections. He was also a trustee for the Village of Amityville, New York.

Despite Nick LaLota’s deeply-seated convictions and prior work for Long Island, for the reasons listed above we believe that John Avlon’s conviction for the truth — and willingness to give up his successful career in journalism to make the differences he wants to see in our district — will make him a valuable representative in Congress.

Correction: In our print editions, Senator Gillibrand is referred to as a congresswoman.

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From left John Avlon and U.S. Rep. Nick Lakota. First photo by Toni-Elena Gallo, second photo courtesy Lakota's office

By Toni-Elena Gallo and Lauren Feldman

John Avlon is the Democratic candidate for U.S. representative of New York’s 1st Congressional District in a race against incumbent Nick LaLota (R-NY1). The 1st District comprises eastern Suffolk County, including the northern portion of the Town of Brookhaven, as well as the towns of Huntington, Smithtown, Riverhead, Southold, Southampton, East Hampton and Shelter Island. 

John Avlon

Sag Harbor-based Avlon is a former anchor with CNN and editor-in-chief of The Daily Beast. Known for a centrist, bipartisan approach, Avlon has centered his campaign on countering polarization and strengthening democratic values. Describing himself as a “common-sense Democrat” at his recent TBR News Media interview, Avlon has authored books such as “Independent Nation” and “Wingnuts,” which explore the rise of political extremism in the United States. 

Avlon’s background and values are strongly influenced by his immigrant heritage, which he says instilled in him a deep sense of patriotism. Reflecting on this, he shared, “We were always taught that you don’t take the blessings of America for granted, especially American democracy.” His transition from journalism to politics, he said, is driven by a commitment to truth and civic duty. As a journalist, he explained, “The guiding stars should be, ‘Is it true? Is it factual?’”

Nick LaLota

Incumbent LaLota, who did not attend the TBR interview, grew up with a sense of duty instilled by his family’s background in the police and Navy. Following his own service in the Navy, LaLota returned to Long Island to work in local government. He served in various roles, including as a member of the Village of Amityville Board of Trustees, chief of staff to the Suffolk County Legislature and Republican commissioner of the Suffolk County Board of Elections. LaLota describes himself as a “commonsense conservative” and considers himself as one of the more bipartisan members of Congress, where he took office in 2022.

Key policy positions and goals

Avlon: Civic education is central to Avlon’s platform, particularly in preparing future generations to engage actively in democracy. He emphasizes the need for educational standards that prepare students for civic responsibilities, saying, “If we are going to sustain our democracy, we need to teach the next generation to be active, informed citizens.” He also advocates for term limits, arguing that fresh perspectives would benefit Congress: “I think people should serve for a time. The idea that you’re in politics or, in my opponent’s case, political patronage jobs for the last 15 years — that’s crazy.”

LaLota: LaLota claims his approach to governance includes a strong commitment to transparency and accountability. He has highlighted his record of engaging with local leaders and constituents to provide services effectively while maintaining affordability. 

Climate resilience and coastal protection

Avlon: Climate resilience is a major focus for Avlon, particularly with Long Island’s vulnerability to coastal erosion and extreme weather. He supports tax incentives to assist homeowners with flood proofing and other climate adaptations. Avlon sees Long Island as having the potential to lead in climate technology, noting projects like Brookhaven National Laboratory’s Discovery Park as opportunities to create clean energy jobs. He proposes a billion-dollar investment in property resilience, stating, “For every dollar you spend making a property more resilient before a disaster, it’s six times more expensive after the fact.”

LaLota: LaLota said he is also committed to environmental protection and water quality on Long Island. He has emphasized the importance of preserving the natural landscape, especially regarding water quality, and has secured federal funding to reduce flooding and improve water quality, including $1.4 million for Smithtown and $1.5 million for the Port Jefferson Harbor. LaLota also played a role as part of the New York delegation in the bipartisan effort to protect Plum Island from development.

Long Island economy and affordability

Avlon: Avlon describes affordability as a top concern, particularly as the cost of living remains high on Long Island. His economic focus includes supporting middle-class families and making the region more affordable, a concern he hears frequently from constituents. Avlon is committed to restoring state and local taxes (known as SALT).

LaLota: LaLota has similarly focused on economic issues, particularly the federal SALT deduction, which he views as essential for easing the tax burden on Long Islanders. He has proposed raising the SALT cap to provide relief for middle-class families and has criticized Congress for not addressing the SALT deduction in recent tax bills, calling it “a betrayal of working families.”

Engagement and accountability

Avlon: Avlon pledges to be accessible to his constituents through regular town halls, promising to hold 12 throughout his campaign. He criticizes LaLota for, in his view, failing to hold open forums, stating, “This is a guy who has never held a single open, in-person town hall.” Avlon has also raised concerns about LaLota’s residence in Amityville, questioning whether it reflects a close connection to the district’s community values and issues.

LaLota: LaLota said he values his local roots, emphasizing his commitment to representing the people of Long Island authentically. LaLota has countered claims that he lacks openness by pointing to his bipartisan track record in Congress. He is known, however, to be absent from numerous local meetings.

Broader political context and media accountability

Avlon: Avlon sees this election as a defense of democratic principles and criticizes major media outlets for remaining neutral, calling it a “dereliction of duty.” He is outspoken in his criticism of former President Trump, viewing Trump’s approach as a departure from traditional political norms and a threat to democratic stability.

LaLota: LaLota continually highlights his bipartisan voting record, citing instances when he voted against his party, such as his opposition to a tax bill that he believed unfairly burdened Long Island families.

Personal motivation and vision

Avlon: Avlon’s decision to enter politics, leaving a successful journalism career, is driven by a deep sense of civic duty. He sees this election as “the good fight” and frames it as a critical moment for the future of American democracy. As a father, he wants to be able to tell his children that he did everything possible during this challenging time. The abortion issue and reproductive freedom are important to his campaign.

LaLota: LaLota claims he is motivated by his dedication to Long Island and his commitment to public service, inspired by a family tradition of service. 

Nick LaLota did not participate in the debate or TBR’s election interview process. All information shared about LaLota in this story is based on research from available sources rather than direct responses from the candidate, and has been vetted by our proofreading team.

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New York State Senator Anthony Palumbo

Palumbo represents the interests of his constituents

TBR News Media is endorsing incumbent Anthony Palumbo (R-New Suffolk) for reelection to the 1st New York Senate District seat. 

Despite being a member of the legislative minority, Palumbo has been nothing short of a productive legislator. His platform is largely defined by pro-taxpayer policies, a strict fiscal conservatism in opposition to perceived governmental wastefulness, and strong advocacy for law enforcement. Moreover, Palumbo is strictly opposed to controversial bail-reform laws passed under Gov. Kathy Hochul’s (D) administration. 

TBR News Media reached this endorsement largely due to Palumbo’s experience in the position and relative effectiveness in government — he is a seasoned legislator and punches above his weight in a state Senate which is defined by a Democratic supermajority. Palumbo has done well to represent the interests of his constituents, and TBR believes that he will continue to do so. 

Moreover, Palumbo represents a degree of political moderation which is palatable at the state level and has allowed him to better represent Long Island families. Even as a freshman assemblyman, Palumbo passed influential tax legislation to save Long Island families money and has continually fought to ensure that Long Island receives its fair share of school aid and infrastructure funding. 

That being said, his opponent, Sarah Anker (D-Mount Sinai), is an absolutely qualified candidate with a remarkable record of public service. TBR would like to express hopes that Anker remains a public servant and visible to the community — her devotion has not gone unnoticed. Despite her track record on the local level, Anker simply does not provide the degree of seniority presented by Palumbo that provides the basis of this endorsement. Our community will continue to benefit immensely from her past and present service. 

In the meantime, we will stand behind the incumbent.

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Sarah Anker and NYS Sen. Anthony Palumbo. Photos by Toni-Elena Gallo

By Peter Sloniewsky

In their recent debate at the TBR News Media office, State Senate District 1 candidate Sarah Anker (D-Mount Sinai) and incumbent Anthony Palumbo (R-New Suffolk) highlighted their diverse experiences, local and statewide issues, and emphasized their relatively moderate stances. Senate District 1 covers the East End towns of Southampton, East Hampton, Riverhead, Shelter Island and Southold as well as part of eastern Brookhaven Town along the North Shore to Stony Brook.

Legislative service and issues

Sarah Anker is running for New York State SenateL District 1.

Firstly, Anker and Palumbo both spent time focusing on their history of legislative service. Anker served for 13 years as a Suffolk County legislator until she was term-limited. Beyond that, Anker emphasized that she had been, and still is, an active citizen, describing herself as a “community advocate.” This background supported Anker’s enthusiasm for hyper-local issues, which have highlighted her time as a county legislator. 

Correspondingly, Anker’s platform is based upon local issues. Stating that, “The most important part of being a legislator is the needs of your constituents,” Anker spoke extensively on issues like traffic safety and water management, often with specific examples and detailed background. She also focused on solving the opioid crisis on Long Island. 

Palumbo served as a Suffolk County assistant DA before being elected state assemblyman 2013-20. Palumbo is the Republican Deputy Floor Leader in the New York State Senate alongside his roles as the ranking member of the Codes and Judiciary Committees. Palumbo’s platform was largely based in state politics considering his extensive time there, and he took note to emphasize his highly productive track record in office. 

Palumbo’s platform is largely defined by pro-taxpayer policies and fiscal conservatism in opposition to government wastefulness. Additionally, in line with his stances on property tax issues across Long Island, he spoke about support for new homebuyers from the state. A centerpiece of his platform, however, is his support for criminal-justice reform on the state level — Palumbo is strictly opposed to bail reform and views it as a misguided Democratic agenda item. 

Staller development at Port Jefferson Station

New York State Senator Anthony Palumbo

Both candidates also discussed the Staller proposal for Port Jefferson Station development in different terms. Anker stated she felt that the community had been under involved in the process — that “we want more people to come and stay here,” but that the proposed buildings were obtrusive and it was most important to preserve the suburban character of the area. 

Alternatively, Palumbo thought that Staller should receive the benefit of the doubt as a multigenerational, experienced developer. He framed the question simply: “We’re really asking what the state can do — the state can stay out of it.” Additionally, to him, debate over the project was emblematic of wider issues in New York’s focus on tenant-centered policy. 

Political moderation

Despite these differences, the candidates agreed on most issues and spent time emphasizing their relative political moderation. Anker noted that Palumbo’s mailers cast her as a progressive while she self-describes as “one of the most moderate and fiscal-conservative Democrats you can find,” with experience winning “seven times as a Democrat in one of the most Republican districts out of the legislative districts in Suffolk County.” Moreover,

Palumbo focused on what he depicted as commonsense issues which are more moderate than his widely-assumed agenda as a Republican. 

Long Island school costs

Both candidates also advocated for a reexamination of Long Island school costs. Palumbo advocated for consolidation, and claimed that immigrants were taking advantage of public schools. However, the center of his point was that he would look to reduce an “abundance of administration and staff while not compromising the education of the kids.” Anker also advocated to reexamine administrative pay, and claimed she was looking into an “alternative” way of funding schools to lessen the strain on homeowners. 

Criticisms and consensus

Both candidates took a few digs at their opponent. Palumbo attacked Anker’s record as a “full-time legislator,” claiming that she reported income from two independent business ventures while also a legislator — a claim that she did not directly respond to. He also criticized what Anker described as her proudest legislative achievement — a hotline for school shootings instituted after the Sandy Hook attack — as an “unfunded mandate” that doesn’t solve any parts of the underlying issue. 

Anker criticized Palumbo’s track record as not being local enough. She pointed at his policy proposal for a community preservation fund as something that had already been attempted in the Town of Brookhaven, and used his efforts on a bill to assist the Montauk Native Americans to describe him as lacking focus, even as Palumbo called himself “a Brookhaven guy.” 

Overall, both candidates reached consensus on a good number of issues but found room to criticize each other on lines beyond their partisan differences.

Election Day is Nov. 5. Early voting is still available through Sunday, Nov. 3. See www.suffolkcountyny.gov for Suffolk County locations and times.

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TBR News Media is endorsing Sen. Mario Mattera for this year's election. File photo by Raymond Janis

By TBR Staff

This election cycle, TBR News Media is endorsing incumbent Mario Mattera (R-St. James) for New York’s 2nd Senate District. Mattera has served in this position for two terms  and has been proven true to his word.

His track record displays his commitment to his constituents. From assisting with Smithtown-area sewer projects to helping restore Foundation Aid for schools across the state, Mattera is respected for his ability to get his boots on the ground and fight against the issues that plague our communities.

Mattera’s strong approval for both Proposition 2 on this year’s ballot, as well as his position as ranking member on the state’s Energy and Telecommunications Committee, shows a concern for environmental issues. He is a proponent of carbon capture technology and green hydrogen development, which serve to mitigate emissions in power plants and waste facilities.

His efforts to keep our communities employed is quite impressive. Mattera’s championing of legislation that requires project labor agreements for projects worth over $10 million has been extremely beneficial in increasing employment rates, as the agreement stipulates that these public works only employ local laborers.

Craig Herskowitz (D) is a very intelligent man and seems to genuinely care about the community in which he lives, as well. His thoughtful and curious demeanor is refreshing, and his clear respect for the incumbent was palpable. While his policy ideas are well-intentioned, he simply lacks the seasoned experience of the incumbent. Giving up his post as a judge to commit himself totally to this campaign is admirable, and if his spirit and willingness to learn is any indicator of his future, this is not the last time we will hear of him.

Correction: In our paper editions, it was stated that Sen. Mattera supports Proposition 1. That is incorrect; he supports Proposition 2.

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NYS Senator Mattera (left) and challenger Craig Herskowitz (right) met at the TBR News Media office to discuss topics related to State Senate District 2. Photos by Toni-Elena Gallo

By Peter Sloniewsky

In their recent meeting at the TBR News Media office, New York State Senate incumbent Mario Mattera (R-St. James) and challenger Craig Herskowitz (D) clashed largely over issues of criminal justice reform and immigration while also emphasizing their relative comradery. 

NYS Senator Mario Mattera

Mattera is running for his third term in State Senate District 2, which covers Smithtown, Huntington, Northport, Commack and Melville. He presents himself with a deeply local focus, having been a union leader and plumber prior to his time in public service. He describes his tenure in Albany as being “vocal” on the Senate Energy and Telecommunications, Labor and Transportation committees, as well as emphasizing a focus on environmental issues like carbon capture technologies. 

Herskowitz, born in Huntington and raised in Northport, is not a stranger to public service either. After working on Capitol Hill and later attending law school, he worked on narcotics and drug issues for the FBI and the U.S. Department of Justice Criminal Division before joining JPMorgan Chase. Throughout the COVID pandemic, Herskowitz worked in crisis management. Prior to running for office, he was a New York City administrative law judge but has since resigned. 

The main point of their discussion was largely centered around bail reform legislation passed by Gov. Kathy Hochul (D). Mattera drew on his endorsements from law enforcement across Suffolk County and listed a number of alleged local and national cases of bail reform leading to additional crime, attributing a perceived rise in crime rates to such reform. 

Craig Herskowitz

Alternatively, Herskowitz emphasized his personal experience in criminal justice work to dismiss Mattera’s rhetoric as a “lot of fear tactics.” He suggested that the state alternatively invest in mental health resources, to which he attributed most failures to appear in court. He added that bail reform has been a benefit and would not be repealed in any way that the Republicans would hope for. That being said, Herskowitz did acknowledge a weakness in Democratic messaging on the subject. 

Mattera also established concerns with the treatment of illegal immigrants in New York state and in New York City, referring to them as a “sanctuary state” and “sanctuary city.” He cited financial statistics meant to emphasize the heavy expenditure of both levels of government on such migrants and drew on his past experience as a union leader to say that “if we need people in the workforce … there’s a reason we have green cards.” 

However, Herskowitz emphasized that most illegal immigrants simply overstay visas and that demonizing migrants coming here for a better life is a “nonstarter.” He added that most migrants are honest people and that immigrant labor has been a huge boost to the economy. He also pointed out that it’s a largely federal issue and that the main stoppage has been on the Republican end.

Both candidates, however, agreed that Long Island and New York as a whole require more federal funding. Mattera especially emphasized the importance of Foundation Aid for education and his own efforts in preserving it. 

In a welcome relief from divisive political climates, both candidates concluded the debate with positive words about one another. Herskowitz said that he respected Mattera’s work as a labor leader, while Mattera said that “when I win, I’m going to take him out to lunch.” 

Election Day is Nov. 5. Early voting is still available through Sunday, Nov. 3. See www.suffolkcountyny.gov for Suffolk County locations and times.

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AI generated photo of voters at the ballot box. Pixabay photo

By Daniel Dunaief

With the rematch between President Joe Biden, 81, and former President Donald Trump, 78, no longer a possibility, local and national Democrats are tapping into a renewed political energy.

After President Biden announced that he was ending his bid for a second term and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris, democrats not only contributed a record amount of money to the likely presidential candidate, but also showed more interest in local races.

“People are excited to be a part of something bigger than themselves,” said John Avlon, who is running against Nick LaLota to join the House of Representatives for New York’s 1st Congressional District. “We’ve seen an increase even over typical levels in both volunteerism and donations in the last 24 hours.”

Avlon suggested that the feeling on the ground has changed fundamentally, with Democrats becoming more “fired up” about the prospects in the White House and in the House of Representatives, where toss-up seats like the first congressional district could determine which party has a majority.

A potential repeat of the contested 2020 election had made many democrats uneasy, particularly after a disastrous debate performance by Biden, who validated concerns about his age with awkward silences and uninspiring replies.

The likely ascendance of Vice President Harris, who received endorsements even from those considered potential candidates for president and who has secured enough delegates to be the Democratic nominee, has generated attention and interest among the voting public and has raised the prospect for greater voter turnout in an election that is just over 100 days away.

The change at the top of the ticket provides a “good opportunity to engage voters even beyond the Democratic party,” said Rebecca Kassay, the Democratic candidate for state Assembly District 4, who is running against Republican Ed Flood. She feels the focus on politics from the president to local elections has given her more of an opening to speak with independents and unaffiliated voters and get their thoughts on local issues.

The increased energy and interest around politics, where people in supermarkets, restaurants, gyms and coffee houses are suddenly eager to discuss the changing landscape at the national level, has provided a “great opportunity for local candidates to not have to worry about exciting democrats,” which gives them a chance to reach out to unaffiliated voters and republicans who might consider voting for a democrat, said Keith Davies, Suffolk County Democratic Committee campaign manager.

Davies added that candidates don’t have to spend as much time fielding questions about President Biden’s cognitive abilities.

To be sure, Avlon acknowledged that the political winds, at a local and national level, are bound to blow in different directions as the election approaches.

“There will be good and bad days ahead,” he said. “We shouldn’t over index any one moment.”

Kassay added that the national winds can blow one way or another, with little local control.

Nonetheless, local democratic leaders suggested that this unprecedented decision by an incumbent president, occurring so close to the election, and the immediate effort to rally around Harris and to come together before the Democratic National Convention creates positive momentum.

A new energy

Local democratic politicians appreciated Biden’s efforts to build infrastructure, to lead a coalition to repel Russia’s aggression in the Ukraine and to continue to build jobs in a post-Covid economy.

“There was so much hand wringing because people were saying, at the same time, that Joe Biden did a great job,” but they weren’t confident in his ability to lead for another four years, said Brookhaven Town Councilmember, Jonathan Kornreich. Biden “made this rather courageous decision” to end his campaign.

The effect has been to inspire the democratic political base.

“Everybody who I talked to is energized,” said Steve Englebright, Suffolk County Legislator for the 5th Legislative District. “The implication is that we’ll have enthusiasm and interest, and that will translate into strong turnout.”

Englebright suggested that the number of democratic voters has wider swings in turnout than the number of republican voters, with democrats varying by as much as 30 percent, or more.

Democrats around Suffolk County not only expect higher voter turnout, but also anticipate that more voters would listen to the candidate platforms and make informed decisions.

“There’s a new sense of optimism and that’s palpable,” said Englebright. “That’s going to translate into more people participating and getting involved.”

Higher voter turnout also means that residents can vote on two propositions that will be a part of the 2024 ballot in New York.

The first would add protection against various forms of discrimination, such as sexual orientation, gender identity and pregnancy, to the state constitution. The second would extend and revise the Suffolk County Drinking Water Protection Program. This proposal would establish a Water Quality Restoration Fund, that would be supported by a sales and use tax of 1/8 of a percent.

Female candidates

Democratic leaders were also excited to support the second woman to run for president, after Hillary Clinton’s unsuccessful 2016 campaign against Trump.

“I see the ascension of a democratic candidate at the top of the ticket, who is a woman of color, a woman of substance, in terms of her accomplishments, as validating the idea that women are equally ready” to serve in any political office, said Englebright.

Kassay is excited to be on the same ballot with other women, including Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, state Senate District 1 candidate Sarah Anker and Harris.

“I’m energized and inspired to be running with our first potential female president,” said Kassay. “That, for me, is an honor and historic.”

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By Toni-Elena Gallo

With President Joe Biden’s decision to end his reelection campaign, major players in the Democratic Party, including the president, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, have officially endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the 2024 Democratic presumptive presidential candidate.

As a result, TBR News Media had a question for locals: “How will this change impact the race to the presidency?”

— Photos by Toni-Elena Gallo

Kaylee and Emily, Ronkonkoma

Both girls expressed shock, but excitement, at the decision.

“I couldn’t believe it, I just found out,” Emily said.

Kaylee thinks that Harris’ presidential bid has given hesitant voters an “opportunity” to vote for a candidate possibly more competent than Biden, and more competent and likable than former President Donald Trump (R).

“Kamala running has made this election more competitive and serious than before,” she added.

Kaylee also voiced that she thinks Harris will “surprise people” during the upcoming debates with her intelligence.

Vic and Sheila Meneghini, Ronkonkoma

Grandparents to Smithtown school district students, Vic and Sheila Meneghini expressed the opinion that if “Kamala stays the nominee, there won’t be much of a difference [in voter choice] because of her alignment with Biden.”

They think that more women may vote, as Harris has the chance to be our first woman president.

The couple, additionally, shared that voting for Harris will probably be more enticing than voting for Biden, if you are a Democrat, which will affect some change, regarding voting turnout.

Vic, however, doesn’t think there’ll be much movement in voting, “as people have already made up their minds” if they are going to vote Democrat or Republican.

Vic and Sheila declined for their picture to be taken or other personal information to be included.

Eric and Cole, Massachusetts and New Hampshire

Eric, a Stony Brook University visitor, is “glad someone [who is of advancing years] isn’t going to be in office anymore. But, I don’t really have a big political view.”

As someone in his 20s, he would appreciate younger presidential options.

In addition, Eric feels people are likely to vote for the wrong or shallow reasons — because they view the election as a popularity contest, don’t like the candidates as people, and vice versa.

He wants to see people focus “on the issues,” as he is a “middle-class guy” who wants to live a decent and prosperous life.

Neither candidate “is doing anything to help me, right now,” he said.

Cole echoed his friend Eric’s sentiments, saying, “It is interesting to have a different face, who is not as old, and will stir the pot a little bit. But whatever these candidates do is not really going to affect my day-to-day life much at the end of the day.”

David, Long Island

David thinks that this change will encourage “more women and people of color to vote.”

Also, he expressed that making Harris the Democratic nominee “will give the [party] a better chance of beating Trump,” but he does not foresee any major developments coming in the wake of Biden’s decision.

David declined for his picture to be taken or other personal information to be included.

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