New York State Assemblyman Bob Barra will not seek re-election in 14th Assembly District

After a decade as state assemblyman in the 14th District, Bob Barra, a Republican from Lynbrook, announced May 19 that he will not seek a sixth term. He cited health concerns as the reason for his decision.

"I did not reach this decision lightly, or abruptly, but I knew it was time for me to leave," said Barra, whose district encompasses Baldwin, Rockville Centre, Lynbrook, South Hempstead, Oceanside, East Rockaway and Malverne. "It is now time to pass the torch to a new generation of lawmaker."

In his 10 years as assemblyman, Barra pursued legislation to restore state funding for Long Island schools, hospitals and health care centers. He was also instrumental in strengthening sex offender laws and helped pass Father Larry's Law, which toughened restrictions on the purchase of gun licenses and firearms. He sought the legislation after a pastor was murdered in Barra's hometown of Lynbrook in 2002.

Even as a private citizen, Barra said, he will continue to fight for lower taxes, the restoration of property tax rebate checks and job-growth developments like the proposed Lighthouse project, and will help keep his beloved New York Islanders on Long Island. He vowed to provide assistance to his successor, who will be elected in November.

Barra thanked 14th District residents for their support as well as their constructive criticism. He urged them to stay involved in helping to improve their communities.

"Keep up the fight for our families," he said. "I know I will."

Sen. Dean Skelos (R-Rockville Centre) said residents would be losing a great leader, as Barra — who once served as director of Skelos's state Senate office — always fought for the interests of 14th District residents.

"Assemblyman Barra is a tireless advocate for dozens of charitable organizations here on Long Island, and has been recognized for his exemplary work with schoolchildren throughout his Assembly District," Skelos said. "By committing his time and energy to these worthy causes, Bob has proven that one person can make a big difference."

Anthony Santino, a Republican councilman for the Town of Hempstead, recalled how he and Barra "came up together" in Republican politics, even serving on the Hempstead town board for a year together.

"Bob always was an incredibly hard worker on behalf of the district," Santino said. "He was a pleasure to deal with, a consummate professional who really put his heart and soul into everything he did. He will be very, very sorely missed. And he'll leave big shoes to fill."

On May 19, Lynbrook Mayor Brian Curran was nominated by the Nassau County Republican Party to replace Barra in the 14th Assembly District. Nassau Democrats have not announced a candidate for the November election.

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