Saladino Wipes Out Gorman in 12th Assembly District

The final votes were tallied at 3:15 a.m., and Republican incumbent Joseph Saladino officially beat Democratic opponent Kevin Gorman with 27,635 votes to Gorman's 8,775 for New York State's 12th District Assembly seat.

"I am deeply humbled and very appreciative of the support that I have received," said Saladino. "I am looking forward to getting back to Albany and working closely with Sen. Hannon and Sen. Fuschillo to represent and protect Long Island's taxpayers." 

First elected to the assembly in a special election in March 2004, Saladino led the race with 75.88 percent of the vote.

"I want to thank Supervisor Venditto, Supervisor Murray, Majority Leader Peter Schmitt and all the volunteers who worked so hard to help bring this victory," he said. "What this says is that people have had it with the high taxes and letting criminals like sex predators walk free and it is time to get Albany under control." 

Saladino will continue to serve Levittown, Island Trees, Bethpage, Massapequa, Plainedge, South Farmingdale, North Wantagh and the Incorporated Village of Massapequa Park. 

Saladino has 16 years of government experience, including his most recent position as as director of operations for the Town of Oyster Bay. Some of his top priorities in the assembly are the passage of legislation to keep taxes low, improve education, preserve the environment and protect children's safety, particularly against sex offenders.

"My first effort is to pass the Property Tax Payers Protection Act, legislation that would get spending under control," said Saladino. "I just want to thank everyone for showing such confidence in me I am very appreciative and very humbled by all the support."

Gorman still has not realized his goal of holding an elected office. Before running for the 12th Assembly District seat, he unsuccessfully ran for Hempstead Town Supervisor, Hempstead Town Clerk and the Nassau County Legislature. 

"He won, so I am just going to congratulate him on winning," Gorman said of Saladino.