A Republican from New York, who came close to beating Democratic Rep. Tom Suozzi in 2024, is now looking for a rematch for a House seat that includes Nassau County and some parts of Queens.
Michael LiPetri, a former state representative, lost to Suozzi by a narrow margin of 3.6 percentage points and announced on Tuesday his intention to seek the Republican nomination again.
Although he’ll face a primary, he has support from local Nassau Republicans on Long Island, notably Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, who is also running for governor as a Republican.
LiPetri plans to emphasize President Trump’s leadership as part of his campaign strategy.
“Under President Trump, we cut taxes on tips, Social Security, and overtime pay, and we increased the SALT tax cap to help hardworking New Yorkers,” he stated.
He also aims to transform the campaign into a referendum on New York City’s Democratic Socialist Mayor Zoran Mamdani.
“We need to flip this seat to put an end to Mamdani’s madness and lawlessness from spreading to Long Island,” he expressed in a statement.
“If you want safer streets, more money in your pocket, and common sense over chaos, vote for Republican Mike LiPetri for Congress in November.”
Blakeman referred to LiPetri as “one of us,” stating, “He embodies our values, is committed to supporting law enforcement, and aims to reduce costs for hardworking taxpayers.”
Suozzi’s campaign has not issued a comment on the matter.
However, Suozzi has sought to separate himself from Mamdani, suggesting that democratic socialists should break away from the Democratic Party entirely.
Suozzi is supportive of former Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo.
LiPetri likely faces a primary challenge from attorney Greg Huck but is expected to have strong backing from party supporters, including Nassau Republican Party Chairman Joseph Cairo.
Huck has a different perspective, saying, “I’ve already garnered support from significant grassroots America First organizations in the NY-3 district and will collaborate with them to get this on the ballot.”
He looks forward to a vigorous exchange of ideas in the campaign, aiming to defeat Suozzi, who he considers burdened by his wealth acquired in Congress. “We can do better,” he concluded.
The nonpartisan Cook Political Report has characterized the race as likely leaning in Suozzi’s favor.
