Candidate Profile: Howard Kopel For Nassau Legislator

LAWRENCE, NY — Election Day is fast approaching and Patch is giving you a look at the candidates on the Nov. 2 ballot.

Nassau County's 7th Legislative District features Republican incumbent Howard Kopel, who seeks a seventh term.

The 7th L.D. covers Rockville Centre, Oceanside, Hewlett, Lawrence, Cedarhurst and East Rockaway.

Kopel is being challenged by Lisa Daniels.

Patch reached out to both candidates to hear where they stand on important issues affecting the community.

Here are Kopel's responses.

Howard Kopel

Age (as of Election Day)

70

Position Sought

County Legislator

Party Affiliation

Republican

Family

Esther, my wife of more than 47 years, 4 children and 13 grandchildren

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education

Law School

Occupation

Title Insurance Executive 36 years

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

none

Campaign website

www.legislatorkopel.com

Why are you seeking elective office?

I am an advocate for sensible and responsible government finance, and for maintaining our suburban way of life.

The single most pressing issue facing our (board, district, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

I am known as a fiscal conservative and I have consistently voted against wasteful government spending that has driven up our taxes.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I have 26 years of relevant business experience that informs my positions, as well as a 12-year record and a leadership position in the Legislature as Deputy Presiding Officer. This enables me to be a most effective advocate for my constituents and for all Nassau taxpayers.

How do you think local officials performed in responding to the coronavirus? What if anything would you have done differently?

I think that the current administration was slow off the mark, and expended federal funds intended for Coronavirus relief in inappropriate ways.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

There are too many projects planned leading to overcrowding in the area. I support development, but only if it is supportable by the infrastructure and maintains the environment. I will also push for the completion of the Nassau Expressway by New York State to relieve dangerous congestion.

I will continue to lead the fight for responsible government finances.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

My 12 years speak for themselves. I have successfully scuttled some wasteful programs and I have never been afraid to vote against my own party when that is appropriate and in the interests of my constituents.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Do the right thing, and let the chips fall where they may.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

It has been a tremendous honor to serve the residents of the 7th District, and I hope to continue to provide service and leadership, if voters continue to trust me with this important job.