As the November election approaches, Assemblywoman Gina L. Sillitti, representing New York’s 16th District, is gearing up for her re-election campaign. With the political landscape becoming increasingly complex, Sillitti plans to leverage her robust voter base and long-standing commitment to public issues to secure votes.
First elected to the state assembly in 2020, Sillitti brings 20 years of public service experience, having previously served on the Nassau County Legislature and the North Hempstead Town Board. Her tenure has been marked by advocacy for infrastructure projects and securing funding for fire departments and schools, while also promoting cultural diversity within her district.
The 16th Assembly District, located on Long Island’s North Shore, includes Port Washington, Great Neck, Manhasset, and Roslyn in Nassau County. These areas are known for their excellent schools and comprehensive community services, which have attracted a growing number of Asian and Chinese residents in recent years.
Reflecting on her accomplishments over the past four years, Sillitti claims significant achievements in multiple areas. She successfully secured $125,000 in funding for improved facilities at schools in Port Washington and Great Neck, and millions in grants for local police and fire departments to acquire advanced technology and equipment. Additionally, she championed projects to strengthen the coastline in Port Washington and improve the sewer system in Manhasset, obtaining $8 million and $5 million in funding respectively, which fostered local economic development and environmental protection.
As she prepares for the upcoming election, Sillitti expresses confidence in her chances for re-election. She recalls the 2022 elections when the Republican Party made substantial gains in Long Island’s congressional districts, flipping four seats for the first time and solidifying their political strength in the area, significantly influencing the House majority. Nonetheless, Sillitti’s successful re-election amidst this conservative trend stands out.
Sillitti attributes her success to her early public service experience, believing that delivering tangible results and providing real benefits to voters—whether through funding or resources—is vital to earning their trust. “When my Democratic colleagues faced losses, voters still believed I could deliver concrete outcomes for them, which is why I was able to prevail,” she explains.
Addressing the challenges of the current election, Sillitti notes that Republican campaign strategies may resonate with some voters, particularly those employing fear tactics. However, she emphasizes her commitment to addressing real issues, advocating not only for her constituents but also for the broader Asian community. “Focusing on substantive issues and genuinely effecting change for voters is key to garnering support,” she asserts.
