Election 2012

17th Assembly District endorsement — McKevitt

Posted

Tom McKevitt, 41, of East Meadow, is running for his fifth term in the 17th Assembly District. His challenger is Kevin Brady, 25, of Levittown, a member of the Working Families Party.

The Herald is endorsing McKevitt for another term. We think he has an extremely strong grasp on his district’s issues, and a very specific plan on what he wants to accomplish, particularly with his plans on mandate relief and lowering taxes on small businesses.

Now that the 17th District includes the majority of East Meadow — which McKevitt calls home — we expect he will be better able to serve his constituents. McKevitt is also a member of the East Meadow Kiwanis Club and the Chamber of Commerce.

We believe that Brady is a strong candidate. Often, young, first-time challengers are labeled as inexperienced and too idealistic, but we think Brady also has a strong grasp of the issues, and has great perspective for his age. We were particularly impressed with his dedication to helping military veterans.

Nonetheless, we believe McKevitt carries more clout in his district, and can better serve his constituents if he is elected to another term.

Brady would make a good elected official someday, and we hope he stays involved in public service.

McKevitt’s track record and clear vision of the issues make him the best choice to lead the 17th Assembly District, and that is why the Herald has chosen to endorse him for re-election.