Monica R. Martinez

Democratic

BACKGROUND

• Martinez, 49, of Brentwood, is a registered Democrat and is running on the Democratic and Working Families party lines in the general election. She is seeking a third term.
• She previously represented a different district in the New York State Senate from 2018 to 2020. She also served as a Suffolk County legislator from 2013 to 2018.  Prior to her career in politics, Martinez was a high school teacher and later an assistant principal in Brentwood.
• Martinez received a bachelor’s degree in history from Binghamton University. She also holds a master’s degree in secondary education from New York University, as well as a school administrative degree from Stony Brook University. She attended Brentwood Ross High School. 

ISSUES

• Martinez said that if reelected her top issue is to “minimize the impact” of federal funding cuts on the state’s health care system and residents. She said she plans to prioritize health care funding and allocating additional state resources for those who are uninsured.
• She also said she wants to expand funding for first responders, including police and fire departments. She cited a previous increase in property tax exemptions for the families of first responders who died on the job, saying she wants to continue to pursue those types of initiatives.
• Martinez said another key issue is to “hold the line on taxes.” She said she previously voted to make permanent the 2% cap on annual property tax increases, and that she wants to continue that type of work.