Suffolk County Legislator Ann Welker has endorsed the campaign of Chris Gallant, a candidate challenging Representative Nick LaLota in New York’s First Congressional District.
“At a time when people want leaders who will unite, and not divide, Chris Gallant stands out,” Ms. Welker, formerly of the Southampton Town Trustees, said in a statement endorsing Mr. Gallant, of Amity Harbor. “As an Army Black Hawk helicopter veteran, a volunteer firefighter, and an air traffic controller, Chris knows how to make quick and consequential decisions that impact people’s lives. He also knows that hard work, public service, and commitment to community matter most to the people of Long Island in order to gain their respect.”
“With water quality, infrastructure, and coastal resiliency being critically important, I know Chris understands the importance of advocating for the environment, economy, and public health for Long Islanders in Washington, D.C.,” Ms. Welker said.
Mr. Gallant thanked her on social media Friday, adding, “Together, we’re building a movement focused on service, unity, and delivering real results for Long Island families.”
Others who have endorsed him include Suffolk Legislators Steve Englebright, Tom Donnelly, and Greg Doroski, Shelter Island Town Councilwoman Elizabeth Hanley, former Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele Jr., John Avlon, the 2024 Democratic candidate for the First District, Jimmy Mack of the Southampton Town Trustees, and Anthony Portesy, the chairman of the Brookhaven Town Democratic Committee.
In order to face Mr. LaLota, a Republican first elected in 2022, in the Nov. 3 election, Mr. Gallant must prevail in the June 23 Democratic primary election. He will face Lukas Ventouras of Northport, who is endorsed by the Blue America and Freethought Equality political action committees.
The Democratic candidates will debate on Wednesday at 6 p.m. at the Meeting House in Jamesport and on June 13 at noon at the Smithtown Democratic Committee’s headquarters.
