In a once-untouchable area for Brookhaven Republicans, the GOP is making a strong play for the Setauket-Port Jefferson-Stony Brook part of town. On the heels of Ed Flood’s (R-Port Jefferson Station) monumental upset of Steve Englebright in 2022, not only is Anthony Figliola looking to flip the Legislature’s district covering this area, but political newcomer Gary Bodenburg (R-Port Jefferson) is looking to flip the Town’s portion of this area.
Bodenburg’s status as a special education teacher puts him in touch with a uniquely commonplace, yet vulnerable, part of the community. He regularly sees all walks of life, from children who come into school in luxury cars, to children who come into school without a lunch. His role in education has crafted his ability to communicate with all different types of people of different ages, as well as craft solutions that do not necessarily abide by a one-size-fits-all policy. Bodenburg’s tenacity on the campaign trail in the bluest part of Brookhaven is reinforced by his constant work on the campaign trail, as well as impetus to get involved in politics due to the absenteeism of Steve Englebright. After working on a successful Ed Flood campaign last year, Bodenburg is ready to parlay that experience into elected experience of his own.
Bodenburg is in an unenviable position of trying to oust Brookhaven’s lone elected Democrat in a district effectively drawn to the benefit of the Democratic Party. Still, we believe his experience precedes him and his constant work on the trail has rendered him deserving of the post to bring a unique perspective to town government.
The Messenger is proud to endorse Gary Bodenburg for Brookhaven Town Council, District One.
The Messenger’s forecast for this race: Toss Up
