MASTIC, NY (04/16/2008)(readMedia)-- Death and taxes, the saying goes, are the two things you can always count on. Today, I'd like to add a third thing to that list: The voters can always count on me to tell it like it is.

Recently, my opponent wrote a letter questioning my integrity and I will not accept this challenge to my character. I cherish the core values of the U.S. Army. Because of my service words like honor, integrity and character are forever intertwined into my DNA and will always govern my decision making.

Likewise, I am well aware of the direction and focus of my campaign and will continue to distance myself from politics as usual while reengaging disenfranchised voters. I can think of no better day than Tax Day to take a few moments to set the record straight to the people of Long Island—the most heavily taxed citizens of the United States.

These are the facts:

• Long Island's unreasonable cost of living is among the highest in America and climbing;

• Last month, Congress passed a proposal which would lead to a $683 billion tax increase;

• This amounts to THE LARGEST TAX INCREASE IN AMERICAN HISTORY;

• The Congressman representing New York's First C.D. voted for this increase;

• Under this plan, Long Islanders will pay more than $3,000 more/year in taxes; and

• I would not have voted for this increase.

My concerns are twofold. First, I'm concerned about my opponent's complacency. In the letter where he failed to accept blame for raising taxes, he bragged about holding the line on taxes. This is false.

Second, my opponent must admit to raising taxes instead of hiding behind semantics and politico-speak. Any way you slice it, sending Uncle Sam $3,000 more each April 15 IS a tax increase. Those who passed this legislation are employing backdoor tactics like repealing the tax cuts of 2001 and 2003, cutting the child tax credit and resurrecting the death tax.

Fellow homeowners and young families of Long Island, we need leaders we can trust, leaders who have our best interests at heart. No matter what the typical politicians want you to think, rest assured that I will always share your challenges and recognize your concerns.

Long Island’s future begins now,

Lee Zeldin

Zeldin served as an aide to State Senator Kenneth P. LaValle. The Shirley resident studied at the University at Albany, graduated from Albany Law School, and earned his commission through Army ROTC. He was a paratrooper, prosecutor and magistrate with the 82nd Airborne Division and XVIII Airborne Corps. In the summer of 2006, he was a JAG attorney deployed to Iraq. He is currently an attorney at Raiser & Kenniff on Long Island.

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For more information on Lee’s campaign please visit us at www.zeldin08.com

Paid for by Lee Zeldin for Congress

Posted Wednesday April 16, 2008 at 01:11 pm by Lee Zeldin for Congress