Jeanine Driscoll defeats Marvin Williams in GOP primary, will face Laura Gillen

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Town of Hempstead Receiver of Taxes Jeanine Driscoll is the Republican Party’s choice to face incumbent Democratic Rep. Laura Gillen in November after the Associated Press called the race in her favor over retired Air Force Lt. Col. Marvin Suber Williams in Tuesday’s  primary election.

Driscoll, 59, of Bellerose, said her seven years as receiver of taxes, along with decades of legal, judicial and community experience, have prepared her to serve in Congress.

A central focus of Driscoll’s campaign is tax relief and affordability. She said her work as receiver of taxes has centered on reducing the burden on homeowners by expanding awareness of property tax exemptions and relief programs. During her tenure, the office has introduced services including drive-through payment windows, satellite offices, online payment options and email reminder systems.

"Congratulations to Jeanine Driscoll on her primary victory! A mom, an attorney, and Hempstead Receiver of Taxes, Driscoll knows what it means to fight for Long Island families and put taxpayers first," Maureen O'Toole, a Republican spokeswoman said in a statement.

Driscoll said her daily interactions with residents have given her firsthand insight into the challenges facing taxpayers. She points to rising housing costs, insurance premiums and taxes as key factors driving Long Island’s affordability crisis. Her congressional platform includes expanding tax relief measures, increasing the state and local tax deduction and reducing regulatory burdens on small businesses. She also supports eliminating federal taxes on tips and overtime pay.

An attorney for more than 30 years and a former associate village justice, Driscoll has also been active in local civic and school organizations. She has received the endorsement of the Nassau County Republican Committee and said her familiarity with Nassau County residents and government operations distinguishes her candidacy.

“Long Islanders know Laura Gillen is on their side," Gillen's campaign said in a statement. "She’s focused on lowering costs, protecting taxpayers and delivering results for working families."