South Shore Press Video Vault: Romaine Backs DeStefano in Assembly Reelection Bid

Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine has thrown his support behind Assemblyman Joe DeStefano’s reelection campaign, praising the Republican lawmaker for his efforts to secure state funding, oppose unfunded mandates, and advocate for Suffolk County taxpayers.

In a campaign endorsement, Romaine emphasized DeStefano’s work on flood mitigation, education, libraries, youth services, and community programs, describing the assemblyman as a dependable partner in securing financial assistance from Albany.

“I'm here today to support my good friend, Assemblyman Joe DeStefano, who has fought very hard against unfunded mandates and for the taxpayers of Suffolk County to bring money home from Albany,” Romaine said.

The county executive specifically highlighted DeStefano’s advocacy for millions of dollars in flood mitigation funding for Mastic Beach, where coastal flooding and storm-related damage remain significant concerns for homeowners and local officials.

Beyond flood protection, Romaine credited DeStefano with advocating for state investments that benefit schools, libraries, youth organizations, and community programs throughout the region.

“Assemblyman DeStefano has advocated for millions in Mastic Beach flood mitigation funding, along with state investments in local schools, libraries, youth services, and community programs,” Romaine said.

The endorsement underscores the importance of cooperation between county government and state lawmakers, particularly as local municipalities confront infrastructure expenses, rising costs, and financial pressures associated with state mandates.

Romaine made clear that having a reliable advocate in the State Assembly is important to Suffolk County's ability to compete for funding distributed through Albany.

“When we need help bringing state funding home from Albany, we turn to Joe. He knows how to fight for us. He's a fighter,” Romaine declared.

The county executive also stressed the value of maintaining that working relationship as Suffolk County pursues additional state assistance for local priorities.

“He's always delivered for Suffolk County, and that's why I'm supporting Joe,” Romaine said.

“I need Joe in the Assembly as a partner to make sure that we get our fair share of state funding.”

Romaine concluded his endorsement with a straightforward assessment of DeStefano’s role in county-state relations.

“When Suffolk County needs help, we go to Joe,” he said.