Tom Suozzi’s re-election campaign: Immigration reform, tax relief, and healthcare for New York’s 3rd district
November 1, 2024
Publication: LI Herald
By: Roksana Amid
Congressman Tom Suozzi, running for re-election in New York’s 3rd Congressional District, isn’t just defending his seat — he’s out to solve the core issues facing his community. He has a straightforward, results-focused vision, emphasizing his dedication to practical solutions over partisan fighting. From immigration to affordability to reproductive rights, Suozzi says his constituents want something simple: real solutions, less bickering, and a shot at a better quality of life.
“Interestingly, immigration and border security are still the top concerns for District 3,” Suozzi said. “People see border issues as urgent and are just exhausted — from rising costs and from the endless bickering. They’re asking for results.” Suozzi, who has built his campaign around practical and collaborative solutions, promises to keep his focus on policies that deliver for his district, and moving away from divisive rhetoric.
One of his primary goals is repealing the state and local tax deduction cap, which he says is a burden for middle-class homeowners. His earlier attempts to do so were blocked in the Senate, but Suozzi is committed to making it a centerpiece if he is re-elected. “If I’m back on the Ways and Means Committee, I’ll be in a powerful position to push for SALT restoration,” he said. The deduction cap, introduced in 2017, is set to expire in 2025, which he says could open a crucial window for tax relief.
Another top priority for Suozzi is curbing prescription drug costs. He praised recent efforts to cap insulin at $35, but expressed frustration that drug prices remain high across the board. “It’s a start, but we need to go further,” he said. He points to new legislation allowing Medicare and Medicaid to negotiate drug prices as a significant step forward, but insists the policy should be expanded. “We pay much higher prices than other countries, and we need to rein in Big Pharma’s influence to keep prices fair for all,” he added.
The cost of living on Long Island remains a concern, and Suozzi acknowledged inflation’s impact on District 3. “Interest rates are finally coming down, and unemployment is low, which is good news,” he said, “but costs are still high, and people feel it every day.” He sees global factors — like Covid-related supply chain issues and rising energy prices resulting from Russia’s war with Ukraine — as critical to managing inflation. “We need to keep supply chains open, watch tariffs carefully, and pursue energy independence to stabilize prices,” he said.
On immigration, Suozzi stresses the need for a bipartisan approach. He has partnered with Republicans on reforms that include securing the border while protecting so-called Dreamers and Temporary Protected Status recipients. “Our immigration system is broken and long overdue for a fix,” he said, calling for a solution that honors the country’s immigrant legacy without sacrificing security.
A longtime advocate for the environment, Suozzi says he is determined to secure more funding for Long Island’s water and sewer infrastructure. “We have unprecedented climate funding thanks to the (Inflation Reduction) Act, and we need a share of that here,” he said. Although he drives an electric car, Suozzi acknowledges the challenges residents face, such as high insurance costs for electric vehicles. “I believe in the green transition,” he said, “but it has to be affordable.”
Foreign policy is equally critical, with Suozzi calling for strong U.S. alliances with Israel and Ukraine and cooperation with Arab allies to counter destabilizing forces like Iran. “We need to stand with our allies while ensuring we don’t escalate tensions,” he said.
Back at home, Suozzi is a proponent of red-flag laws and universal background checks to address gun violence, and believes women’s rights need federal protection. He advocates codifying Roe v. Wade, saying, “Health care should never depend on where you live,” and notes his 100% rating from Planned Parenthood.
Suozzi remains optimistic about working across party lines. “I’ve always believed that the only way forward is together,” he said.