Murray’s Experience Makes a Difference in Albany

State Sen. Dean Murray brings an unusual combination of business experience, public safety advocacy and legislative service to his campaign for another term in the Third Senate District.

First elected to the Assembly in 2010, Murray served six years in the lower chamber before winning election to the Senate in 2022. His experience as a small-business owner continues to shape his approach to state government.

Murray founded an advertising and publishing company in 1997, producing employment, real estate and other specialty publications. His Long Island Fugitive Finder project continues to work with law enforcement, and Murray credits the initiative with helping authorities apprehend more than 2,000 wanted individuals.

The senator’s legislative work includes helping establish I-STOP, New York’s prescription monitoring program designed to combat opioid abuse and prevent doctor shopping. Murray also advocated for the legalization of mixed martial arts and daily fantasy sports, popular activities that have generated new economic opportunities and revenue for New York State.

Public safety remains central to his agenda. Murray champions Nick’s Law, which would strengthen penalties for fatal hit-and-run offenses, and Sarah’s Law, which would prevent murder convictions from being erased when convicted killers die before their appeals are resolved, denying victims’ families the justice secured in court.

He has also introduced legislation targeting Medicaid fraud, arguing that local prosecutors need greater authority to investigate abuses of taxpayer-funded programs. Murray’s concerns extend to the cost of doing business, excessive taxation and what he considers inadequate financial accountability at the Metropolitan Transportation Authority. He supports protecting Long Island’s sole-source aquifer and carefully evaluating the environmental and energy demands of proposed data centers.

Throughout his interview with the South Shore Press Editorial Board, Murray emphasized his belief that Albany’s policies too often overlook crime victims, taxpayers and the difficulties facing entrepreneurs. His opponent, Tony Vargas, did not respond to an invitation to discuss his campaign.

Murray presents voters with a record of legislative experience, proposals for additional criminal justice protections and a continuing focus on government spending and Long Island affordability. The South Shore Press wholeheartedly endorses him.