He’s dozing off, Tom.
A Republican competing for the nomination, alongside Rep. Tom Suozzi, a Democrat from Long Island, took a jab at the incumbent for appearing to fall asleep during President Trump’s speech on Tuesday night.
“What can I say? Tired Tom is definitely not the right fit for this role,” quipped Mike Ripetri, who had a narrow defeat against Suozzi in the 2024 general election.
“Sleepy Mr. Suozzi has indicated he only stays awake when trading stocks, raising taxes, or sidelining law enforcement. Luckily, I have the stamina to advocate for my community and I can stay up past 10 p.m.,” added LiPetri, a former state representative.
Rep. Tom Suozzi (D-N.Y.) was spotted biting his nails as President Trump urged him to run as a Democrat to focus on the concerns of Americans.
Republican candidate Greg Huck, also seeking the party’s nomination, encouraged residents of the 3rd Congressional District to speculate on what was happening in “Taxman Tom’s tired mind” when he apparently took a public nap.
“Nothing” is an acceptable response, the Hatch campaign humorously noted.
The winning entry will receive 10 free trips around Manhattan, though it used to be complimentary; now, it costs $90 because of daytime congestion fees.
“How many more photos do I need to take of this guy?” joked Huck.
“Tom Suozzi has made millions as an insider in Congress, then dozes off during the State of the Union! It’s disrespectful not just to his constituents, but to everyone who funds his position. Shameful,” he added.
Suozzi minimized the incident in a short statement on X after the event.
“I’ve always struggled to stay awake for reruns,” he dryly remarked about Trump’s speech.
His opponents accuse him of advocating for higher federal taxes on the rich and promoting profitable stock portfolios.
Suozzi dismissed the Republican critiques.
“One thing’s certain: Congressman Suozzi will be well-rested while continuing to advocate bipartisanship for New York families, addressing rising costs, securing our borders, reforming immigration, and restoring SALT benefits to protect our environment while combating extremism,” stated Kim Devlin, Suozzi’s senior campaign advisor.
