Endorsement

Vote for Ed Ra in 19th Assembly District

Posted

In the race for the seat in the 19th Assembly District, the Herald endorses incumbent Ed Ra, of Franklin Square.

Given Ra’s years of experience in the State Assembly — he was first elected to the 21st District seat in 2010, and was re-elected to represent the redrawn 19th in 2012 — it is no surprise that he has a command of the issues the district faces and a very specific plan for dealing with them.

Ra has made himself a familiar face in the 19th, supporting local businesses and recognizing individuals and organizations that work toward the betterment of their community. More specifically, he has supported legislation to enhance school safety, including the “red flag” bill, which would allow parents, police officers, teachers and school administrators to go to court and ask that weapons be removed from the homes of those they have reason to suspect might be a danger to themselves or others.

Ra’s challenger, William Carr, of Williston Park, also has a solid understanding of how government works, and has plenty of good ideas for initiatives that would improve constituents’ lives. He has been an IBEW Local 3 electrician for 22 years and a Williston Park village trustee for six years, and we are impressed with his blue-collar work ethic and dedication to his community. We would have no complaints if he were elected.

Nonetheless, we believe Ra carries more clout for the district in Albany, and can better serve his constituents if he is elected to another term. On Election Day, cast your ballot for Ra.