Howard Fensterman’s editorial on the electoral win of Tom Suozzi and the resultant consequences moving forward, especially regarding the migrant issue was published in Long Island Press this week. Fensterman’s perspective is summarized below.
In a special election to replace George Santos, Democrat Tom Suozzi won the Third District, which consists of sections of New York’s Queens and Nassau Counties over his Republican opponent Mazi Pilip.
His constituents well know Democrat Suozzi in his New York district. A veteran and skilled leader who has always been willing to work across party lines to find solutions to seemingly intractable problems.
The return of Tom Suozzi to Congress has sparked a thorough examination by analysts in New York and nationwide as they seek to decipher the potential messages for the upcoming national elections. In this nuanced political landscape, Suozzi emerges as a known and skilled leader recognized for his willingness to collaborate across party lines to address complex challenges.
A focal point of recent political discourse has been the defensive stance taken by President Biden and Democrats in response to a Republican onslaught regarding the influx of migrants crossing the southern border, with over 100,000 of them finding their way to New York. Suozzi emphasized the bipartisan credentials he has cultivated in his three previous terms in Congress.
In a notable departure from party lines, Suozzi not only criticized President Biden’s handling of immigration but also backed a bipartisan plan from the Senate called the Emergency National Security Supplemental Appropriations Act or simply, H. R. 815, which is aimed to tighten border controls, enhance asylum procedures, and provide crucial support to allies in Ukraine, Taiwan, and Israel.
A surprising turn of events unfolded when House Republican leaders, who initially advocated for such a solution on immigration, reversed their stance and refused to consider the bill after Trump expressed a preference for inaction.
This stark difference in approach resonated strongly with voters across the border leading to Suozzi securing the district by a noteworthy eight-point margin over his opponent Mazi Philip. His appeal extended beyond party lines, winning over independents and garnering more support from Republicans than his opponent did from Democrats. The significance of suburban districts, once again poised to be the deciding factor in the November elections, underscores the importance of embracing common-sense solutions and seeking common ground on the most challenging issues to propel the country forward.
While many Democrats view Suozzi’s victory as a potential turning point, it’s crucial to acknowledge the enduring strength and vibrancy of the moderate Republican party in Nassau County. The reality is reflected in the fact that all three county-wide offices and town supervisors in Nassau County are Republicans. This robust Republican presence in the face of continued extreme left-wing policies from the New York City Council and the New York State Legislature raises the prospect of more Democratic moderates leaning towards voting Republican in the future. Suozzi’s victory stands as a credit to his leadership and the substantial goodwill he has established through his accomplishments as a two-term County Executive and three-term Congressman.