25°Good evening
Peter King, GOP incumbent candidate for US Congress New York...

Peter King, GOP incumbent candidate for US Congress New York 2nd District. Credit: James Escher

Rep. Peter King of Seaford is unique in the House of Representatives, in the Republican Party and in the support he provides Long Island and New York.

Seeking his 13th term in the House of Representatives, King is one of the loudest and most powerful voices for moderation and bipartisan leadership remaining in the increasingly extreme GOP. His stands against fellow Republicans who fought the Zadroga Act, which provides federal benefits for responders who were sickened after the 9/11 attacks, and much-needed regional relief after superstorm Sandy were important for New York. But his stands against petulant GOP shutdowns of the government and in opposition to an extremist stunt that nearly cut off funding for Homeland Security to protest executive orders on immigration have been crucial to the nation.

Because of his long service and local-legend status, King, 72, will likely win another term. That’s true even though his district holds more Democrats than Republicans and more residents of Suffolk County than Nassau. But he won’t hold the seat forever. And when he leaves, his opponent, Suffolk County Legislature Presiding Officer DuWayne Gregory, a Democrat, may have the inside track.

Gregory, 47, has served in the legislature since 2008, knows the issues facing Congress and his district. An Amityville resident, he’s sensible and knowledgeable on a range of issues, a dedicated public servant who has a bright future. His desire to fight for equal pay for women, affordable college for young people, and better veterans services for men and women who, like him, served in the armed forces, is laudable. But King’s record and clout make him a crucial asset in Washington right now.

Newsday endorses Peter King.

SUBSCRIBE

Unlimited Digital AccessOnly 25¢for 6 months

ACT NOWSALE ENDS SOON | CANCEL ANYTIME