By Patrick Donachie
Outgoing U.S. Rep. Steve Israel (D-Melville) endorsed former Nassau County Executive Tom Suozzi Monday in the general election campaign to succeed him in the 3rd Congressional District.
Suozzi won the Democratic primary to become the party’s nominee in the race, which includes parts of Nassau and Suffolk counties in addition to Bay Terrace, Whitestone, Glen Oaks and Floral Park.
“I’m endorsing Tom Suozzi today because he has shown that he will be the best candidate to continue my relentless fight in Congress for New York’s middle-class families, veterans and seniors,” Israel said. “Tom has also proven that he is the type of representative we need in Washington – someone who will bring big and bold ideas to the table and have the courage and political skill to solve problems.”
In addition to Israel, Suozzi received endorsements from his challengers in the Democratic primary race, including North Hempstead Councilwoman Anna Kaplan, former North Hempstead Supervisor Jon Kaiman, Suffolk County Legislator Steve Stern and attorney Jonathan Clarke. Israel endorsed Stern during the Democratic primary race.
Suozzi will face a Republican challenger in the fall. State Sen. Jack Martins claims he is the presumptive nominee, though he currently faces a legal challenge that could require a Republican primary to be held prior to the general election, which will be held Nov. 8.
Reach reporter Patrick Donachie by e-mail at pdona
