Edward P. Ra for New York State Assembly 19th District
Republican Assemb. Edward P. Ra is running for reelection in New York State Assembly District 19. Credit: James Escher
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As the State Legislature is poised to consider potentially significant changes to the state's Foundation Aid Formula for education, Republican Edward P. Ra has a critical role to play.
Ra, the ranking GOP member on the Assembly's Ways and Means committee, understands the ins and outs of education funding, from assessing the regional cost index and poverty measures to considering mental health services and special education. Ra, who has met with Robert Megna, former state budget director and current head of the Rockefeller Institute of Government, which is undertaking the school funding analysis, said he is prepared to work with his colleagues to "make sure Long Island is not negatively impacted."
Ra, who lives in Garden City South, provides a thoughtful, measured analysis of the region's public transit funding needs. In the wake of Gov. Kathy Hochul's decision to halt the start of congestion pricing, he wanted a series of hearings this summer and fall to assess alternatives and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's fiscal strength.
Ra, who will turn 43 just before Election Day, is equally insightful and careful in his analysis of whether a casino resort should be built at the Nassau Hub, which lies in the 19th District. The district's representative will have an appointment to a key community advisory board. Ra said he sees benefits and concerns regarding the casino resort idea, and would choose someone with "an open mind" who would meet with the surrounding communities to understand all viewpoints.
Williston Park Democrat Sanjeev Kumar Jindal, 47, said he opposes a casino resort at the Hub, as he worries about traffic, safety and the siting of a casino near multiple academic institutions. Jindal, who ran against Ra two years ago, suggested the Hub instead be home to affordable senior housing and recreational services. Jindal is passionate about improving quality of life and opportunities for district residents, but lacks a solid understanding of the state's legislative process and district needs and how to meet them.
Long Island needs Ra's voice, knowledge and leadership, particularly in the education funding battles to come.
Newsday's editorial board endorses Ra.
ENDORSEMENTS ARE DETERMINED solely by the Newsday editorial board, a team of opinion journalists focused on issues of public policy and governance. Newsday’s news division has no role in this process.
