Letters

It is with pleasure that I endorse John Avlon in the upcoming June 25 primary. Honestly, I think we are fortunate to have John running on the Democratic ticket for the 1st Congressional District. Our district, which encompasses the eastern end of Long Island, including parts of Brookhaven, Huntington and Smithtown.

To me, Mr. Avlon has the qualities voters should very much appreciate. He is bright, articulate, dedicated, attractive and knowledgeable. You the reader may know him from having been an ongoing correspondent on CNN. There, John is regularly discussing leading news topics domestic and internationally — with insight and good understanding. He also has good Washington contacts, which can help influence/pass federal legislation affecting our district. John and his family have had a home in Sag Harbor for a number of years.

Policy-wise — this is where Mr. Avlon stands: will fight to restore reproductive freedom; sees public safety as a civil right; for clean water, clean air and wants to address climate change; improve Long Island infrastructure, including transportation; supports aid for Ukraine and Israel and condemns Hamas; cites affordability and specifically references restoring the SALT tax deductions and child tax credit; believes democracy is threatened by Donald Trump and his followers; supported the recent bipartisan immigration bill that passed the Senate but not the House (bill contains more money for Border Patrol officers, administrative judges, a quick determination of refugee status, more help for states and localities); supports the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare).

In sum, I believe that John sees our democracy threatened under Trump, which is his most primary motivation for running for office.

To me, the above list of beliefs makes strong sense for Mr. Avlon’s endorsement. And this is why I will be voting for John Avlon on June 25. Please join me.

Tom Hadlock

Westhampton