Eric Ari Brown for Assembly District 20

There's one issue Eric Ari Brown puts at the center of his work in the district he represents: antisemitism. He's introduced nine bills on the topic, such as defunding universities that promote antisemitism or "look the other way," and he'd like to push those forward.

Putting such a spotlight on rising antisemitism at a time when it's particularly pervasive is important, not only for Brown's district, which has a significant Jewish population concerned about its safety, but for the state as a whole. But Brown, 58, is just as passionate about the 20th District's other needs, paying particular attention to small businesses and libraries. He's trying to assist the beleaguered Peninsula Public Library, first by getting the library a mobile bus and now by working to improve the institution's governance. Libraries, he said, are "totally forgotten in every which way" by the state.

The Cedarhurst Republican advocates for broader — and more — public hearings in Albany, which he said should come before decisions are made and bills are finalized. "Let's bring it out first. Let's discuss it first. Let's debate it first," he said. 

Cedarhurst Democrat Meir Fischer, too, focuses on antisemitism and hate crimes. Fischer, 24, said he'd like to work with synagogues, churches and mosques to determine exactly what each needs for security improvements and other upgrades, rather than handling the issue from the top down. Fischer also emphasizes the importance of making the public schools in the district whole, before any money goes toward yeshivas or other private schools. "We've got to make sure the public schools are funded properly," he said. Fischer cares about his communities, but lacks the expertise to fully represent them.

Brown has that expertise, but he still wears multiple hats, as he's also deputy mayor and a trustee of the Village of Cedarhurst. He says he puts politics aside, though there have been concerns raised to the contrary. Brown correctly notes that state ethics law allows the dual roles, but his attention must be on assuring his entire Assembly district is well-represented. 

Newsday Opinion endorses Brown.