Joshua Lafazan for Nassau Legislative District 18

Joshua Alexander Lafazan, of Woodbury, was the youngest Nassau legislator ever. Now 27, Lafazan has proved to be a strong voice for his district.

Lafazan recruited volunteers to shop for seniors during the pandemic and takes pride in getting every county road in his district paved. A misstep this term was legislation he sponsored to add first responders as a protected class under the county’s Human Rights Law, which would allow them to sue protesters for "discrimination." It was vetoed after its constitutionality was questioned by the state’s attorney general.

Lafazan must direct his energy to critical countywide improvements such as bringing its information technology into the 21st century. That's a strength shown by his work on a 24-hour hotline staffed by substance abuse counselors, and development of the "Nassau C.A.R.E.S." app, a searchable treatment database.

Republican candidate Paolo A. Pironi declined to be interviewed.

Newsday endorses Lafazan.

Nassau Legislative District 18 covers Northeast area of Oyster Bay, Cove Neck, East Hills, Glenhead, Woodbury, Brookville.