Francis X. Becker Jr., state senator, 9th dist

Francis X. Becker Jr.

REPUBLICAN

BACKGROUND: Becker, 65, of Lynbrook is running on the Republican and Conservative party lines. He is president of Becker & Associates Planning Services. He previously served 10 terms in the 6th District of the Nassau County Legislature. Becker studied business finance at Nassau Community College and Hofstra University. He is a certified financial planner. He is married with three children.

ISSUES: Becker said he wants to create the position of water czar for the state to conduct studies and find ways to preserve Long Island’s water and aquifers from salt intrusion. He said Nassau County needs to fix the assessment system to find solutions for erroneous assessment and unfair tax distribution. He said the state needs to reduce spending in Albany and said he has fought to reduce spending in Nassau County to keep it affordable for residents. Becker said he wants incorporated villages in Nassau County to get a share of sales tax revenue from the state to retain revenue they generate and help offset village property taxes. Becker said the state needs to do more to address the opioid crisis, particularly on Long Island, to find creative solutions for families and young people.

By John Asbury

john.asbury@newsday.comJohnAsbury

John Asbury is a breaking news and general assignment reporter. He has been with Newsday since 2014 and previously worked at The Press-Enterprise in Riverside, California.