Who we're endorsing: For New York State Assembly

Of the state Assembly's 150 members, 107 — more than two-thirds — belong to the long-dominant Democratic majority. But out of Long Island's 22 Assembly members, 12 — more than half — belong to the chamber's clout-challenged Republican minority.

That power scenario is unlikely to change in any significant way on Nov. 8. For Nassau and Suffolk county voters, this election provides a chance to look past party alignment and choose incumbents, challengers, or those vying for open seats based on whom the candidates are and how they define their positions on pressing local issues.

Parties run tickets, but coattails aren't guaranteed — and every election is different. Some who vote for the top elected positions but don't proceed down the ballot to the other races sacrifice a chance for some local impact.

On Long Island, that can mean nuanced distinctions on subjects where Assembly members can wield and echo community influence — school finances, approaches to housing development, criminal justice policies, economic development, income and business taxes, ways to fund mass transit, the possible conversion of LIPA to a public utility, responses to the ongoing drug scourge, vaccine mandates, and voting regulations. Not to mention issues unique to each district.

We offer our recommendations of those candidates best able to stand up for Long Island, and encouraging voters to take time to consider them.

Below see our endorsements for New York State Assembly Districts 1 to 12. To find out what district you reside in, click through our interactive maps here.