Joseph McDermott, Suffolk Legislator, 11th Legislative District

DEMOCRATIC

McDermott, 52, the former mayor of Brightwaters, is running on the Democratic, Independence and Working Families lines.

ISSUES:

• He wants to combat the influence of MS-13 and gangs by not only arresting gang leaders and members, but by educating young students who are potential recruits.
• McDermott said he’s also running to get "through-the-roof" taxes under control in the district and said he believes “current officials in this district don’t hold themselves accountable.”
• McDermott is also interested in addressing water quality issues.

By Mark Harrington

mark.harrington@newsday.comMHarringtonNews

Mark Harrington, a Newsday reporter since 1999, covers energy, wineries, Indian affairs and fisheries.