Dean Murray to represent New York’s 3rd Assembly District

Republican Dean Murray, the incumbent from East Patchogue, made progress for his South Shore district in this term by supporting laws to eliminate zombie homes and tackle the epidemic of heroin and opioid abuse, while pushing for more regulation of mulch facilities in his district.

The 52-year-old pet-magazine publisher made his biggest mark, however, by sponsoring a bill to legalize and regulate internet fantasy-sports betting after websites were shut down by the state attorney general. The law offers protections to players and is projected to bring in $4 million in new state revenue. Murray should use his fan interest in gaming to keep an eye on the state’s expanding gambling business.

Democratic candidate Gregory Schoen, 30, of East Patchogue, is not actively campaigning.

Newsday endorses Murray.