The drive between my office and home has been treacherous for my tires over the past couple of years, with the potholes and broken stretches of blacktop causing them to whine in protest. I was taking all sorts of detours through adjoining neighborhoods to avoid them.
So, imagine my relief when a transportation ground crew appeared a couple of weeks ago and proceeded to repair and repave the roads. The route is now smooth enough for roller skating.
This could have been a metaphor for the coming election.
After mounting anxiety among the populace and near hysteria about what voting would be like and what would lie ahead by the media, it is such a relief that nothing violenthappened. It was only an exercise in demonstrating the will of the governed.
Yes, half the population is keenly disappointed that its candidate did not win and make history, and the other half is ecstatic that its candidate did win and did make history. But an amazing calm has descended.
Polls almost all across our nation were crowded but enabled orderly voting. There were a few bomb threats phoned in, largely attributed to Russian interference, which delayed our voting process in a minor way, but there were no scenes of perilous conflict.
We Americans did what we are supposed to do during elections. We voted—in greater number than usual—then went about our usual business and awaited the results.
The only uptick in normal activity was in the stock market, which soared wildly at the prospect of calm and stability. There was no factual basis for any claims of chaos. And no one so far seems to be challenging the results.
We can let out our collective breath.
This election should not pass from sight without our plaudits for the poll workers. When I entered my polling place about 10:45 a.m. on Tuesday, I was greeted cordially, directed to the proper table to register, then to another for the ballot and given a short explanation on how to fill it out.
When I emerged, ballot in hand, from the booth, I was further directed to one of the voting machines, then I left with a receipt and a sticker some kind soul had supplied that read, “I voted.” As I left, I was thanked a couple of times for voting by poll workers.
It occurred to me that we, the voters, should be thanking them. Despite the severe concerns expressed in the lead-up to the election about the safety issue for those workers, they showed up, graciously did their jobs, safely put in a long day, then returned to their homes.
They supported the ultimate key for democracy to happen: the vote.
So thank you to the many men and women, all across America, and those in our individual polling places, for your help. And thanks to those who came to protect them.
Many people had an enormous stake in the election.
Beyond the policies, the ideas, the rallies and all the other hoopla around the hotly contested Election of 2024, people contributed significant amounts of money to back their favorite candidate or candidates.
OpenSecrets predicted that the 2024 federal election cycle would be the costliest on record, at $15.9 billion.
That’s a lot of advertisements funded by people who felt compelled to offer their financial support to candidates they thought would be the best for them, their counties, their states and the country.
So, what did we get for all that money?
Well, for starters, we had advertisements that decried the unqualified or awful nature of the other candidate. Sure, I suppose there’s some value in that.
But as a die-hard Yankees fan — a fitting phrase this year after the Bronx Bombers committed the kind of errors my son described as U8 mistakes — I’m not sure I’d want my team to spend so much time and effort trash talking, beating up or insulting their opponents.
Yes, I get it. Sports and politics aren’t the same, and yet, we the fans, supporters and general public invest in people in these arenas, hoping for the best from them.
Talking about how bad the competition is doesn’t make you better. It can scare people into voting for you, I suppose, but that doesn’t seem like a particularly honorable way to win. It also doesn’t set the tone for our children, who watch these advertisements or hear the words from would-be political leaders and wonder why they should exercise restraint on the playground after they’ve heard political leaders call each other names or insult each other.
I suppose all those horrible words and a readiness to “fight” is far preferable to the historic human way of changing government regimes. In previous generations and in non-democratic societies, people shed blood to create a new government or bring in new leaders.
In theory, every four years, We the People can go to the ballot box and alter the direction of the country with our vote.
That brings me back to the money. Beyond the contribution to our candidate, what do we get back for the money we spend?
To borrow from Wall Street, what’s the return on our investment? Can we ask to speak with some of these leaders? Can we send ideas to improve the way government works?
No matter who wins any election, that person has a duty and responsibility to represent everyone, including those people who didn’t vote for them and their adversaries in the election cycle. The once and future president, whether he likes it or not, represents his constituents and his adversaries.
Getting elected doesn’t just give them power: it places enormous responsibility on their shoulders.
They came to us, electronic palms outstretched, asking for money and we gave it to them, despite concerns about our economic future, our desire to save for ourselves and our children and our need to invest in ourselves.
How else could we have spent that money? Could we have taken classes that enabled us to find other jobs? Could we have sent that money to charity to provide for the basic needs of people who are struggling to survive?
Now that donations helped fill many of those seats, those politicians, on day one, should make sure they listen to people, should affect positive changes and policies, and should work to ensure that they reward the public with effective leadership.
Let’s hope that money backed the right candidates, which can and should benefit the entire country.
Is it too much to ask that, one day, we all see a reasonable return on these investments?
TBR News Media is endorsing Paul Damato (R, C) and John Zollo (R, C) for the two judges vacancies on the 4th District Court in the Town of Smithtown.
Both men’s dedication to the Smithtown community makes them an asset to a position that oversees a variety of cases, including but not limited to civil disputes, family matters, small claims and housing issues, all of which will directly affect their neighbors.
Their combined strong suits, which run the gamut from Zollo’s empathetic approach to justice, to Damato’s extensive experience in property evaluation, tax law and even serving as the Village of Port Jefferson assessor — will make for balanced and substantiated rulings.
Paul Damato. Photo by Toni-Elena Gallo
Damato is a man who has chosen a field of law that requires great patience and know-how, and his knowledge of legal study is impressive. Additionally, Damato views the judiciary as requiring a “balance of technical precision, and fair application of law,” further emphasizing that his decisions will be grounded in his comprehensive study of primary and secondary legal sources. His comfortability with property-related cases sets him apart from his peers, as Damato truly derives pleasure from the practice of legal intricacies.
Zollo’s posts as assistant county attorney, Suffolk County, as well as town attorney for Smithtown, have prepared him for the procedural handling of local government issues, civil litigation and community centric cases. His understanding of legal ordinances has provided Zollo with the type of “inside” knowledge he needs to properly serve his town. He has viewed his various positions as a way to connect with his community, one person at a time, and Zollo’s strong standing within local circles allows him insight into the individualized needs of local residents. He prides himself on approaching each one of his cases with compassion and respect, feeling that his duty is that of a public servant — not an authoritarian. He shared that being a judge “is not just about knowing the law, it’s about understanding people, and what they need from the law.”
In addition to both men’s numerous attributes, it is important to note that Damato has extensive leadership experience. He served as president of an attorney appraiser and architectural engineer association. As an academic, he has taught legal education courses at the law schools of St. John’s University and Fordham University.
With Maria Scheuring’s decision not to come in, we have no choice but to exclude the Democratic nominee from our consideration. However, Scheuring does not lack in experience, and is a seasoned lawyer, with over two decades of experience. She is a trial and appellate attorney with experience in matrimonial, family and guardianship law, who started her career as an assistant district attorney in the Bronx. Additionally, Scheuring founded two law firms in which she has represented a broad range of clients, including corporations, musicians and major insurance companies. She later served as an associate attorney in NYC firms, focusing on plaintiff’s no-fault litigation, workers compensation, social security disability and high-stakes corporate defense work for municipalities and international companies. She ran a 2021 campaign for Town of Smithtown supervisor, losing to Ed Wehrheim (R),
Consequently, we feel that John Zollo and Paul Damato are the best judges choices for the 4th District. They are intelligent, personable and, most importantly, veterans in the legal field. They have what it takes to serve their district with dignity and admiration for not only judicial, but also the Smithtown community.
TBR News Media is endorsing incumbent Michael Fitzpatrick (R-Smithtown) for NYS 8th District assemblyman.
As a member of the state Assembly for over 22 years, and a former member of the Smithtown Town Council for 15, Fitzpatrick is trusted by his community. He is a veteran politician, who possesses a youthful zest for his job, and clearly has no intention of slowing down. He also brings helpful seniority to his position.
Fitzpatrick has been working, and wants to continue working, to bring infrastructure such as sewers to vulnerable areas, and feels that with responsible growth, we can increase housing options on Long Island that are not only more affordable, but will keep people here, and living in the suburban environment they are accustomed to.
Fitzpatrick supports green energy initiatives, but is not as focused on environmental policy as his Democratic rival Steve Basileo. Additionally, promoting a more ecomonically sound and fiscally responsible state is one of his chief concerns. He totally opposes abortion.
He is passionate about pension reform, and investing in our SUNY system — particularly Stony Brook, our state’s flagship university — and stronger vocational training options for those who would prefer going into a trade. Basileo is a highly intelligent man, with a strong foundation in public policy, and possesses exceptional interpersonal skills. His background in labor organizing, as well as interning with Suffolk County Legislator Sam Gonzalez (D-Brentwood), shows his dedication to helping those in need of assistance and support.
Having political aspirations so young puts him in a league above many others his age, and his understanding of our state’s governmental structure and function are such that we hope he stays in the political arena.
For these reasons, we are endorsing Mike Fitzpatrick. He has an impressive track record, a history of results and is trusted by his constituents, as well as us.
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
Bothcandidates 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.
By next week we will have elected a new President of the United States. Hopefully, whoever is elected, he or she will use language that unites us and language that divides us. The new president must be a bridge builder not a wall builder.
One of the many things that has been buried in the rubble of negative rhetoric is a respect for the human dignity of every human person. We must hold our president to a higher standard of respect for all people.
Respecting the human dignity of all people means recognizing and valuing each human person’s inherent worth and rights; regardless of one’s background, beliefs or human circumstance; it involves treating everyone with kindness and compassion; acknowledging their feelings and perspectives; always advocating for their rights and freedom.
This kind of respect for one’s human dignity is grounded in the belief that every person has a unique story to tell; deserving of acknowledgment and empathy. It encompasses promoting equality, combating discrimination and ensuring that everyone has access to equal opportunity and the resources that they need to thrive.
Ultimately, we must be committed to building a more just and inclusive society, where everyone can live authentically with dignity and no fear.
Our social justice lens has been blurred in recent years due to the intense polarization of our nation. I think our moral compass needs to be reset. Religion, sadly, has been used as a weapon rather than a profound reminder of the human dignity of every human person; one that is inclusive and that all of our holy books affirm.
The next generation of leaders have tremendous potential and possibility. I see it every day in the students and graduate students I am privileged to teach. My fear for them is that they have very few role models to look up to, to prepare them for the future.
They possess little or no civic responsibility. Many of them believe their vote does not count so why bother! However, some are seeing the value of getting involved and giving voice to the issues that are important to them. They need to hear and see that positive change is possible. Sometimes it just takes one voice to shed light on an issue of deep concern and change does happen.
Hope is a profound and positive emotion characterized by a belief in the possibility of a better future. This year my students have renewed my sense of hope for the future. I listen to their dreams, I hear them speak of a deep sense of purpose. They are resilient. They want to make the world a better place. I really believe they can.
Father Francis Pizzarelli, SMM, LCSW-R, ACSW, DCSW, is the director of Hope House Ministries in Port Jefferson.
TBR News Media is endorsing Rebecca Kassay (D-Port Jefferson) for NYS District 4 assemblymember.
She is a dedicated member of the Port Jefferson community and has been engaged in local affairs for years, serving as the village’s deputy mayor,
Her personable approach has connected her with the people of her community, and she genuinely cares about the concerns of each individual resident. Kassay’s belief in “proactive public servants” will serve her well as a woman of the people, so to speak. A local business owner who said that she and her husband opened a bed and breakfast “to make ends meet,” she appears to genuinely show passion for the Island’s affordability crisis. Kassay strongly emphasizes her commitment to being present in the communities in which she would work and has indicated she will refuse to be a figurehead in Albany.
While Ed Flood (R-Port Jefferson) may be the incumbent, his recent disbarment as an attorney is disconcerting. In addition, he is known to have been absent from civic association meetings and the events of local groups, quite often sending representatives in his place.
Kassay’s strong connections with local officials, as well as her desire to incorporate more members of our police departments, give her the balanced and nuanced approach we think is necessary to quell citizens’ concerns on the crime and safety fronts.
She also has great concern for the environment, being an environmental scientist. Kassay’s role as Port Jefferson’s Conservation Advisory Council, further displays her strength as a worker, and her dedication to our environmental well-being. Ultimately, she believes that her expertise can help tackle two of Port Jeff’s biggest issues: flooding, and the revitalization of our towns.
All in all, we feel Rebecca Kassay is the person for Assembly District 4. She said that while “this job is partly about being in Albany and passing legislation and looking at the budget, it takes being here at home and personally being out here to continue building relationships. The people deserve a representative who is going to be in this position [full time].” We couldn’t agree more.
We thank Ed Flood for his service, but ultimately feel Rebecca Kassay will serve our Island more effectively.
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.
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.
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 termsand 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.
