Michael Giangregorio to succeed Rhoads in Legislature

By MICHAEl MAlASZCZYK mmalaszczyk@liherald.com

Michael Giangregorio has spent years working with local politicians on improving the lives of families affected by autism. Now he will get the chance to continue this work — and improve the lives of all of his constituents — as Nassau County’s newest legislator.

Giangregorio defeated Robert Miles in the race for the vacant seat in the 19th Legislative District in a special election on Feb. 28. The seat became vacant when former Legislator Steve Rhoads won election to the State Senate’s newly drawn 5th District by defeating John Brooks in November.

“To pass the torch to such a qualified, hardworking and passionate legislator who has common sense and deep roots in our community feels great,” Rhoads said. “I know my constituents will be well served with Michael as their legislator. I look forward to working together and fighting to deliver tax relief and safe communities for Nassau South Shore families.” making our streets safe by demanding the repeal of cashless bail,” Carini said. “Our constituents want the same thing — a safe, affordable place to work and raise a family. We will work together to accomplish this goal.”

In addition to an ally in Rhoads at the state level, Giangregorio also could count on an ally at the Town of Hempstead in Councilman Christopher Carini.

Giangregorio and Carini have already worked together on a number of initiatives, including removing graffiti from public areas.

Miles, an attorney for the Legislature’s minority caucus, conceded shortly after the results were in on the evening of Feb. 28 and congratulated Giangregorio on a well-run, issue-focused race.

Giangregorio has been a community advocate for many years.

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“I am excited and looking forward to working with Mike to improve the quality of life of the communities we serve by standing up to the governor’s plan to end local zoning that will allow up to 50 units per acre, supporting our law enforcement, and