NEW YORK — Two Democratic candidates vying to challenge Long Island Rep. Nick LaLota share a key priority: defending democracy from Donald Trump’s attempts to undermine trust in elections and the justice system.
A National Strategy with Local Risks
This strategy reflects Joe Biden’s campaign, which has taken a more forceful tone, focusing on Trump’s hush money conviction and his efforts to overturn the 2020 election. However, some Democrats worry this approach might be risky, particularly in Long Island’s increasingly Republican suburbs. These areas, which were a rare source of trouble for Democrats in 2022, might not resonate as strongly with this messaging.
Candidates and Their Approaches
John Avlon, a former CNN analyst, and Nancy Goroff, a chemist and the 2020 Democratic nominee, are competing in eastern Long Island. Each believes they are better suited to take on LaLota, one of the first battleground Republicans to endorse Trump. Avlon and Goroff emphasize their histories of standing up to Republican threats to democracy, but their strategies differ from other local Democrats. For instance, Rep. Tom Suozzi and Laura Gillen, running against other GOP incumbents, have avoided focusing on Trump.
Voter Concerns in Long Island
There is concern among Democrats that swing-district voters in working- and middle-class parts of Long Island may prioritize issues like cost of living and public safety over democracy. This focus might alienate voters more concerned with immediate, tangible challenges.
Local Political Landscape
Long Island Republicans have embraced Trump more openly compared to their colleagues in other suburban battlegrounds. For example, Rep. Marc Molinaro endorsed Trump quietly, while Reps. Anthony D’Esposito and LaLota openly showed their support. This local political landscape influences how Democratic candidates shape their campaigns.
Endorsements and Campaign Dynamics
Avlon has secured numerous endorsements, including from Reps. Suozzi, Greg Meeks, and Dan Goldman, along with local Democratic committees and labor unions. He announced his candidacy in February, surprising many who saw Goroff as the frontrunner. Goroff, endorsed by EMILY’s List and J Street, highlights her community ties and ongoing voter enthusiasm.
Key Issues and Campaign Messaging
Both candidates stress that democracy is a crucial issue but not their sole focus. Avlon emphasizes protecting abortion access and affordability, while Goroff often addresses the climate crisis. Jay Jacobs, chair of the New York State and Nassau County Democratic parties, notes that while democracy is a key issue in the primary, it may not be the central message in the general election.
Republican Response and Democratic Concerns
Republicans dismiss the Democrats’ focus on Trump. National Republican Congressional Committee spokesperson Savannah Viar suggests that Democrats should focus on issues like border security and affordability. Some Democrats worry that an anti-MAGA message might alienate voters who are sympathetic to Trump but open to voting for Democrats on other issues.
As the primary approaches, the Democratic candidates’ focus on defending democracy will be tested in Long Island, a crucial battleground in the upcoming elections.
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