Sussman Offers a New Generation of Republican Leadership

At just 27, Will Sussman is presenting himself as part of a new generation of government leadership, bringing an academic background, detailed policy proposals and a determination to address the challenges confronting Long Island.

The Republican challenging Democratic Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay in Brookhaven's Fourth Assembly District has made affordability, public safety and environmental protection the cornerstones of his campaign.

Born in Stony Brook and a Miller Place High School graduate, Sussman studied electrical engineering and computer science at Yale University and MIT. He now teaches mathematics for computer science at Yeshiva University.

His decision to return to Long Island reflects a concern shared by many young residents: the difficulty of purchasing a home and raising a family in the communities where they grew up.

Sussman's positions extend well beyond conventional campaign talking points. He advocates additional sewer infrastructure to protect Suffolk's groundwater, preservation of the Setauket-Port Jefferson Station Greenway and greater scrutiny of development proposals that could threaten the environment.

On data centers, he proposes extending New York's moratorium through 2030, requiring developers to offset their enormous electricity demands and ending taxpayer subsidies for facilities that could strain local resources.

He also questions legislation limiting cooperation between local police and federal immigration authorities, while raising constitutional concerns about automated license plate surveillance.

A former Democrat who notes that the party left him, Sussman describes his political philosophy as centrist, emphasizing fiscal responsibility and a willingness to challenge policies regardless of party affiliation.

His experience testifying before Congress about campus antisemitism adds another dimension to his public-policy background.

Throughout his South Shore Press interview, Sussman demonstrated familiarity with complicated issues, explaining his positions through specific proposals rather than relying on slogans. He has certainly earned our endorsement.

Kassay, his opponent, failed to respond to an invitation to discuss her accomplishments in the assembly.