Fitzpatrick and O'Keefe Face Off on Taxes, Health Care in 8th District

Voters in the 8th Assembly District will choose between incumbent Mike Fitzpatrick and challenger Lynn Trupiano-O'Keefe on November 3. The two candidates present distinct economic plans for the district, with Fitzpatrick focusing on spending control and O'Keefe emphasizing expanded state services for residents.

Fitzpatrick, a Republican seeking a 13th term, cites a state budget increase from $93 billion to $277 billion during his tenure as evidence of excessive spending. He argues that New York must lower its tax burden to remain competitive. The Hauppauge native also proposes rebranding the State University of New York system as the University of New York to build a stronger national brand. He has discussed this idea with Governor Kathy Hochul and views it as a way to support economic growth in communities like Stony Brook.

O'Keefe, a Democrat and longtime Kings Park resident, centers her campaign on the New York Health Act. She supports a single-payer system funded by payroll taxes that would cover dental, vision, and long-term care. The former nuclear medicine worker argues that this approach would reduce premiums and administrative costs for families and employers. She points to her own adult children, three of whom still live with her, as examples of the financial pressure keeping young people on Long Island.

Both candidates address housing, but their methods differ. Fitzpatrick supports transit-oriented development near rail stations in Smithtown, St. James, and Kings Park to increase density. He believes this strategy supports local businesses and allows young residents to stay in the area. O'Keefe proposes a pilot program for housing aimed at young workers and veterans. She suggests using vacant buildings at the former Kings Park Psychiatric Center for these projects, working with vocational schools and nonprofits.

The candidates also disagree on public pensions. Fitzpatrick criticizes proposed changes to Tier 6 pensions as financially unsustainable for taxpayers. O'Keefe opposes privatizing these benefits, stating that public employees need reliable retirement security. Fitzpatrick argues for structural spending cuts to prevent future tax hikes, while O'Keefe prioritizes funding for public schools and local services.

O'Keefe has criticized Fitzpatrick for insufficient communication regarding his legislative work. She said residents need more information about funding secured for the district. Fitzpatrick maintains that fiscal discipline protects residents from new taxes. He noted that he has worked on legislation to protect retail employees from retaliation and supports speed cameras on Route 347 for safety.