Long Islanders stuck with common sense this election

Long Islanders made their voices heard this week. Across Nassau and Suffolk counties, more than 420,000 people turned out to vote. They showed once again that when local government works, our community stands behind it.

The results were clear and expected. Long Islanders supported leaders who have focused on safety and the everyday issues that matter most to our families and communities.

In Nassau County, voters reelected County Executive Bruce Blakeman for continuing to protect taxpayers and support law enforcement. Republicans held every countywide office and kept control of all three town supervisor seats. John Ferretti Jr. in Hempstead, Joseph Saladino in Oyster Bay, and Jennifer DeSena in North Hempstead each earned the trust of their communities by focusing on results, not rhetoric.

In Suffolk County, District Attorney Ray Tierney and Sheriff Errol Toulon Jr. also received strong support for keeping their communities safe. Republicans held the majority in the legislature and won decisive town races from Huntington to Islip to Shelter Island. Suffolk's Republican leadership has delivered for working families, and voters showed they want that record to continue. This year voters, including many independents, backed Republican leaders who focused on results. Once again, common sense prevailed in Suffolk County.

These results remind us of what makes Long Island different. We are practical people who expect hard work and honesty from those we elect. When I travel through the district meeting people in our community, I hear the same concerns. People want safe streets, strong schools, and reliable local government. We are not looking for slogans or division; we want the basics done right.

That is how I approach my work in Congress. As chairman of the Homeland Security Committee, I focus on keeping our communities safe and supporting those who serve them. Whether it is securing funding for coastal protection, improving cyber defenses, or backing our first responders, my goal is to make Washington work for Long Island. That includes fighting for fair taxes. I delivered tax relief for Long Islanders by raising the SALT deduction cap to $40,000. This fourfold increase lets hardworking families keep more of what they earn.

These elections were not about change. They were about trust. Long Islanders stood by the leaders who have earned it. That trust is built over time, upholding our quality of life, keeping taxes low, and showing up when people need help.

Looking ahead to 2026, I believe voters will once again reward steady, results-driven leadership. Long Islanders want government that makes life more affordable and keeps our communities safe. Republicans are delivering on both. When leaders stay focused on common sense and accountability, I expect voters here, and across the country, will continue to choose that path.

Long Island has always taken pride in being independent. We care about our neighbors, our families, and the future of our towns. We know what works, and we stand by it.

This guest essay reflects the views of Rep. Andrew Garbarino (R-Bayport), who represents the 2nd Congressional District.