The swing US congressional district, vacated by former Republican Congressman George Santos following his expulsion last December, has been clinched by Democrat Tom Suozzi. His victory over rival Mazi Pilip on Tuesday night denies Republicans an opportunity to bolster their slim majority in the House of Representatives.
Suozzi’s win comes amidst Santos’s removal from Congress over fraud allegations, making the race a closely monitored bellwether for the upcoming November elections. With 87% of the estimated votes tallied, Suozzi secured 54%, while Pilip trailed with 45%.
In his victory speech, Suozzi emphasised unity and bridging political divides, underscoring the need to find common ground and deliver for the American people. The election marks Suozzi’s return to Congress after an unsuccessful gubernatorial bid in 2022, where voters replaced him with Santos.
Campaigning under the slogan “Let’s Fix This,” Suozzi embarked on a well-funded effort, positioning himself as an experienced leader familiar to voters. Pilip, the Republican candidate, conceded the race, acknowledging Suozzi’s victory.
The win was hailed by Democratic Mayor Eric Adams of New York as good news for the city, highlighting the importance of the race amidst high-profile issues such as immigration, the Israel-Gaza conflict, and abortion.
Both candidates poured millions into the campaign, reflecting the district’s diverse electorate spanning from Queens to Long Island’s western suburbs. Despite registered Democrats outnumbering Republicans, polls suggested a tight race throughout the short campaign.
Pilip, an Ethiopian-Israeli immigrant and former IDF member, emphasised immigration and unwavering US support for Israel. Suozzi, positioning himself as an ally of Israel, countered progressive Democratic views on aid reduction.
Pilip blamed Suozzi and Democrats for New York City’s migrant influx and border crisis, appealing to the district’s Jewish voters. Suozzi reassured Jewish voters of his support for Israel, countering progressive Democratic stances.
The race outcome underscores the district’s pivotal role in national politics, setting the stage for November’s elections as Suozzi prepares to seek a new term.
