In what is becoming an increasingly bitter, partisan battle, Nassau County Legislator Ed Mangano, a Republican, is challenging incumbent Democrat Thomas Suozzi for the county executive’s seat. The race appears to boil down to three key issues: property taxes, a recently imposed 2.5 percent energy tax and the county’s troubled property-tax assessment system. Mangano is challenging Suozzi’s handling of all three issues, while Suozzi fires back that the county has consistently balanced its budget while improving its bond rating, which reduces the interest the county must pay when it bonds money for any number of projects. more

In the race for Hempstead town clerk, incumbent Mark Bonilla, a Republican, is being challenged by political newcomer Anthony Rattoballi, a Democrat. more

Two years ago, Lawrence resident Howard Kopel challenged Legislator Jeff Toback (D-Oceanside) in Nassau County’s 7th Legislative District race. Kopel came up nearly 700 votes short in his bid to unseat the 10-year incumbent. The two will face off again on Nov. 3. more

Republican legislative candidate Howard Kopel’s attempt to gain another ballot line in the Nov. 3 election was thwarted on Sept. 30 when a referee in Nassau County Supreme Court invalidated his petition for the newly created Tax Revolt Party. more

Anthony J. Santino is seeking a fifth term as a councilman for the Town of Hempstead's fourth district, vowing to “continue to manage your tax dollars in tough times.” more

Jean Brett-Leach, the Democratic candidate for councilwoman in the Town of Hempstead 4th District who is running against Councilman Anthony Santino (R-East Rockaway), says she promises to work hard, fix problems for district residents and reduce government spending. more

George Maragos, CEO of a financial services business, is challenging two-term incumbent Howard Weitzman in the race for Nassau County comptroller. Maragos said that the county’s finances have been poorly managed for the past eight years, and he believes his experience can bring needed change. more

Assemblyman Robert Barra (R-Lynbrook) said he’s outraged at what he describes as a ”blatant money grab orchestrated by Gov. David Paterson and his cohorts in the state Legislature.” As part of the 2009-10 state budget, which he voted against, drivers licenses and registration fees will increase dramatically. more