Who we're endorsing: For New York State Senate

Given Long Island's varied terrain and array of communities, it makes more sense for voters to compare and consider the pluses and minuses of individual candidates for New York State Senate rather than to dwell on how their ballots may affect party majorities across the state.

Democrats, for example, generally support the majority’s goals of passing, for the second time, an Equal Rights Amendment which would allow voters to decide next year whether the state Constitution should be amended to protect the right to an abortion and prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender, nationality and disability. Such rights would not be subject to infringement by a new law or court ruling.

Republicans continue to raise concerns about recent crime spikes by demanding changes to cashless bail and other recent measures passed as part of a national movement toward reducing incarceration for lesser crimes. They say it gave some individuals more incentive to commit violent acts.

Other important issues where candidates assume varying positions include vaccine mandates, environmental protections, climate change challenges, and the role of taxes and regulations in driving people out of New York.

Examine the differences in candidates' stances. And decide with whom you agree.

Not sure of your district? Find out here.

Below, see our picks for New York State Senate.