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Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman Gains National Attention for Controversial Policies

“He’s grandstanding and trying to be a mini-Trump,” New York State Democratic Chair Jay Jacobs said of Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman (right). | Frank Franklin II/AP

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, a New York GOP official, is gaining national attention for his conservative stances, including a ban on transgender athletes and a controversial force recruitment plan. Blakeman’s alignment with former President Donald Trump and media presence are raising his profile within the GOP.

Content: NEW YORK — Bruce Blakeman, the Nassau County Executive, has captured national attention for his conservative policies and close ties to former President Donald Trump. Blakeman, who has been seen alongside Trump at various events, recently attended the Republican National Convention, where he networked with influential GOP figures.

Blakeman’s recent actions include signing a law banning transgender athletes from competing in county facilities, which has sparked legal challenges from the New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU) and New York State Attorney General Tish James. This law has garnered both praise and criticism, reflecting the divisive nature of culture war issues within the GOP.

“We’ve taken some stands in Nassau County that have gotten national attention,” Blakeman said in an interview. “People want to get back to American values, conservative values.”

In addition to the transgender athlete ban, Blakeman has proposed the recruitment, training, and arming of a force that he insists is not a militia. This initiative has raised concerns among local officials and civil rights groups. Delia DeRiggi-Whitton, the Democratic minority leader of the Nassau County Legislature, expressed worries about the potential dangers of untrained individuals carrying firearms.

Blakeman’s critics accuse him of using these policies to bolster his political image. “He’s grandstanding and trying to be a mini-Trump,” said New York State Democratic Chair Jay Jacobs.

Despite the controversies, Blakeman remains steadfast in his actions, claiming they are necessary for public safety and aligning with conservative values. His stance has resonated with some high-profile conservatives, including Caitlyn Jenner, who supports the transgender athlete ban.

Blakeman’s rising profile and frequent media appearances have led to speculation about his political ambitions. However, he remains focused on his current role. “I never rule anything out,” Blakeman said, “but I’m totally focused on being the best county executive I can be.”

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