Keiserman ready to take all her work to Albany

From education reform, protecting reproductive rights and the environment, Kimberly Garber Keiserman has set her priorities for a potential first term in the state Senate.
The Port Washington resident has been an active advocate in her local school district, gaining a deep understanding of the budgetary constraints and operational challenges that campuses across Long Island face.
“I experienced many different school systems” moving around a lot growing up, Keiserman told reporters during a recent Herald Roundtable session. “I’m very well aware of the difference between a well-funded school system and a not well-funded school system. Full funding of public schools will be a top priority, ensuring that districts get their fair share of foundation aid.”
Access to post-secondary education — especially for low-income students — is another key focus for Keiserman. Serving on the board of an organization that promotes a two-year college model, Keiserman aims to explore ways to increase access to college and vocational training programs, providing mentorship and support for students facing various barriers.
Her journey into politics was fueled by the 2016 election of Donald Trump. Disturbed by his attacks on various groups and democratic institutions, Keiserman joined the Port Washington Democratic Club and quickly became a central figure in grassroots organizing.

“I was just so horrified by his attacks on women, immigrants, people of color, the free press, and democracy itself,” she said. “I felt like I need to be part of the fight for democracy and decency.”
Her efforts in supporting a coalition to oust expelled U.S. Rep. George Santos through the Concerned Citizens of NY-03 group are what she describes as a testament to her dedication and effectiveness in political activism.
“We thought we’ll be working together for a few weeks, to get this guy to resign,” Keiserman said. “But it ended up being a lot more work than we expected it to be. It was a great experience, but I wish it didn’t take 11 months.”
In addressing environmental issues, Keiserman stressed the importance of protecting the North Shore’s sole source aquifer from pollution and overuse. She advocates for funding studies, public education on sustainable practices, and policy changes to improve water quality and quantity.
“We need to be thinking of water as a precious and limited resource, especially here on Long Island,” she said. “We need to be ensuring that those who have polluted our aquifers through industrial practices are paying for the remediation that has to be done.”
If she succeeds in the June 25 primary and ultimately defeats Jack Martins in the general election, one of Keiserman’s first actions would be to join the bipartisan pro-choice Legislative Caucus, emphasizing her commitment to protecting and expanding women’s reproductive rights. She supports codifying these rights into the state constitution, and ensuring comprehensive reproductive care, including pre- and post-natal care.
Despite being a newcomer when it comes to running for public office, Keiserman believes her lack of prior political experience is offset by her extensive advocacy work and community involvement. She aims to provide a strong, effective voice for Long Island in Albany.
“People should vote for me because I will be a fighter for reproductive rights, education, the environment, and sensible gun laws,” Keiserman said. “I think that I’ve demonstrated that I have the ability to flip the seat.”