Mattera and Singh Clash on Senate Race Strategy for Long Island
The Republican incumbent cites a construction background, while the Democratic challenger argues for a partisan shift in Albany to secure funding.
By Natalia Costa ·
State Sen. Mario Mattera and challenger Harjot Singh present competing visions for the 2nd Senate District as the Nov. 3 election approaches. The two candidates diverge on how to handle affordability, infrastructure, and energy policy in a state government controlled by Democrats.
Mattera, a Republican, relies on his six years in the state Senate and a 45 year career with Plumbers Local 200. He spent 23 years as a business agent for the union and served seven years on the Suffolk County Water Authority board. He describes himself as an elected official rather than a politician. He points to road improvements and sewer expansion projects in Smithtown and Huntington as evidence of his record.
The incumbent defends his opposition to what he calls excessive state spending. He argues that New York’s Democratic leadership has left Long Island shortchanged. Mattera serves as the ranking Republican on the Senate Energy Committee. He has advocated for natural gas infrastructure and opposed heavy reliance on wind, solar, and battery storage. He supports electrifying the Long Island Rail Road’s Port Jefferson Branch but wants local governments to control decisions on data centers.
Singh, a Democrat and Dix Hills resident, entered the race to provide a stronger voice for local residents. He immigrated from India in 2004 and studied law at Boston University. He operates legal practices in Hicksville and Richmond Hill. He calls himself an ordinary citizen and argues his party affiliation will help him secure funding from Albany’s Democratic majority.
The challenger identifies affordability as the district’s top concern. He cites rising costs for housing, insurance, groceries, and energy. He says younger residents are leaving Long Island because they are being priced out. Singh proposes tax credits for first-time homebuyers, child care assistance, and smaller starter homes. He also wants more housing options for seniors who wish to downsize.
Singh opposes locating data centers on Long Island due to concerns about water resources and energy capacity. He supports a mix of future energy sources, including renewables and potentially nuclear power. Both candidates agree that infrastructure investment is essential. Singh argues that securing state funding for LIRR electrification and sewer improvements will be easier with a Democrat in the seat.
The candidates agree on the goal of keeping families on Long Island. Mattera emphasizes his experience in securing projects, while Singh argues that new representation will bring additional resources to the district.
