Battle Lines Drawn for November Election

Nearly every election is considered “the most important in our lifetime,” and this year is no exception. Control of Congress is at stake, along with statewide offices and the state Legislature. There are also countywide races in Suffolk and judgeships on the line.

The South Shore Press will be closely following Election 2026 with extensive coverage of the issues, candidates and our endorsements. We encourage everyone to exercise their right to participate in our democracy and cast a knowledgeable vote.

While President Donald Trump is not on the ballot, his agenda for America is front and center. If Democrats take control of Congress, Washington could quickly turn toward investigations and impeachment, threatening to mire Washington in political gridlock. As in 2022, when Republicans captured the House, all eyes will be on New York, where key congressional races could help determine control.

Leading Suffolk’s GOP delegation are Reps. Andrew Garbarino and Nick LaLota, House veterans who helped deliver an increase in the SALT tax deduction that benefits high-tax states such as New York. Both are also running on provisions of Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill, including tax relief on tips, overtime and Social Security.

Gov. Kathy Hochul faces an aggressive challenge from Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman. Attorney General Letitia James is up against former federal prosecutor Saritha Komatireddy, while Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli faces Joseph Hernandez, a businessman and investor.

Suffolk legislators provide a bulwark against New York City’s Democrat power base that sees Long Island as a perennial cash cow. Rather than serve as a rubber stamp for the Gov. Hochul and Albany’s growing socialist agenda, the Republicans lead the battle for the suburbs.

Heading the local state ticket are Sens. Anthony Palumbo, Dean Murray and Mario Mattera, along with Assembly members Joe DeStefano, Jodi Giglio and Mike Fitzpatrick. Assemblyman Jarett Gandolfo is seeking the Senate seat being vacated by Republican Alexis Weik.

Countywide, Brookhaven Highway Superintendent Dan Losquadro is running for Suffolk comptroller, while County Clerk Vincent Puleo is seeking reelection. Judicial offices, including state Supreme Court, are also on the ballot.