Democrats win key races in Long Island elections

Democrats claimed influential seats across Long Island, marking significant wins in Congress, the state legislature and local government. 

Democrat Laura Gillen beat incumbent Congressman Anthony D’Esposito for the 4th Congressional District seat with 51 percent of the votes in a close race, securing her first term in the U.S. House of Representatives.

“The coordinated campaign that we put together, we knocked on 300,000 doors, we made over 600,000 phone calls, and we put together a campaign that was a winning game that we will emulate in the years to come,” Gillen said.   

On the state level, Nassau County Legislator Siela Bynoe won the election for the 6th State Senate District with 60 percent of the votes, defeating Republican Thomas Montefinise. Bynoe has emphasized her history of advocating for her community throughout her campaign, highlighting issues like public health and housing.

“We'll be able to bring more money here into this district for infrastructure, education and all the things that matter the most,” Bynoe said.

A special election will take place in February to fill her seat in the legislature. 

In the assembly, Democrat Noah Burroughs has secured the 18th Assembly District seat with over 80 percent of the votes, defeating Republican challenger Danielle Smikle. 

Burroughs has focused his platform on school safety, incentives to encourage local business growth to help reduce homeowners' tax burdens and working with other leaders to make homes more affordable for families.

“Working as a team is the only way that these things begin to work,” Burroughs said, “and that is how we need to continue to move forward.”

Prop 1, an amendment that adds protections against discrimination to the state constitution, also passed.