Rebecca Kassay for New York State Assembly 4th District
Democrat Rebecca Kassay is running for election in New York State Assembly District 4. Credit: James Escher
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Two years ago, the red wave that swept Long Island claimed the seat of Democratic Assemb. Steven Englebright, who had served since 1992.
Port Jefferson Republican Edward A. Flood, previously an assistant town attorney for Brook-haven Town, beat Englebright by less than 700 votes.
But Flood has had few accomplishments in two years even for a minority member, pointing to grants he got for the Gordon Heights Fire Department and the VFW in the district and a Flax Pond cleanup with Democratic Assemb. Steve Stern. Flood falls back on tired generalities, saying residents’ quality of life has deteriorated and blaming bail reform. Last month, Flood was disbarred as an attorney due to “conduct involving dishonesty, fraud, deceit or misrepresentation,” per the Second Appellate Division. Flood, 42, blamed the decision on missing paperwork.
This year, 4th District voters have a promising alternative in Democrat Rebecca A. Kassay. A trustee and deputy mayor for Port Jefferson Village, Kassay, 35, owns a bed-and-breakfast in the village, giving her insight into hurdles faced by small business owners.
Importantly, in her village role, she has spotlighted environmental concerns, with a particular and appropriate focus on flooding and flood mitigation. Kassay recognizes that constant sand replenishment to fight erosion and protect roads, homes and infrastructure is not sustainable. With Brookhaven’s landfill closing, Kassay said she’d prioritize reducing waste, including moving forward on efforts to make producers of packaging responsible for its reuse or recycling.
Kassay understands tweaks should be made to criminal justice reforms, while noting that crime is declining. She speaks with authority about sewer and infrastructure needs and hopes to repurpose blighted commercial areas into “walkable, vibrant communities.”
Kassay promises that serving as a lawmaker would not just be a full-time job, it would be her “lifestyle.” The district would benefit from that kind of attentive representation.
Newsday’s editorial board endorses Kassay.
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.
