Includes most of Central Islip, Islip above Sunrise Hwy, Brentwood below 495 (LIE), Hauppauge below 495 (LIE)
After 20 years in the Assembly, Philip R. Ramos, 66, of Brentwood is not ready to give up his seat.
Ramos, a Democrat, argues that more funding for education, homelessness, and alternatives to criminal activities to deter gang recruitment is needed in impoverished communities to help prevent crime. The former Suffolk County police officer feels strongly about addressing inequities in the justice system yet realizes adjustments are needed to address flaws in the pretrial discovery process and better education for judges about cases in which defendants should be remanded.
Republican Kevin Surdi, 35, of Bay Shore, is an ER nurse and small business owner who supports removing all vaccine mandates and making lifesaving drugs like EpiPen and insulin free for low-income communities.
Ramos’ rise through the leadership ranks and his advocacy for constituents have earned him another term.
Newsday endorses Ramos.