John K. Mikulin for New York State Assembly 17th District

For John K. Mikulin, one of his most significant successes continues to be one of his most pressing concerns.

Over three full terms in office, Mikulin said, he has consistently advocated for — and, with help from other lawmakers, obtained — state funding as needed for water treatment and cleanup to address the contaminated plume at the former Grumman facility in Bethpage. But the Bethpage Republican says he will continue pushing to make sure the site is fully cleaned up.

Mikulin, 36, is similarly vocal regarding possible changes to the formula that determines state aid for education. Even districts with enrollment declines must still provide services, he argues, for things like mental health and special needs. He hopes to raise pay for special education teachers, therapists and others who work at group homes or elsewhere in the field. He hopes state incentives will spur housing construction in areas like Bellmore and Hicksville.

On Nassau University Medical Center, Mikulin notes he was able to secure funding for its newly upgraded catheterization lab, a welcome effort. But his argument for state funding for the hospital without addressing its management or governance is too simplistic. Mikulin said the state has to work with the county and NUMC to develop a path forward. But he must be ready to advocate for the proper management of NUMC before more funds are allocated. He can be an important voice for patients and county taxpayers as Nassau and state officials negotiate a path forward.

Democrat Harpreet S. Toor said he has lived in East Meadow since 1994. But he made two runs for New York City Council, in 2010 and 2021, saying he used his office address in Richmond Hill and that of a cousin in Queens, while still supposedly living in East Meadow. Toor, who is Sikh, wants to work on behalf of other immigrant families. "My intent is to make us normal," Toor said. "People should not be turning their heads and looking around when I or somebody looking like me passes by." Toor, 69, is passionate about health care, noting that his wife passed away from breast cancer, and about protecting the right of religious New Yorkers to wear appropriate head coverings and other garb.

Mikulin has always prioritized constituent service to his district. If he can add his spirited voice to larger concerns, both the district and the region would benefit.

Newsday's editorial board endorses Mikulin.