Zeldin Reiterates Themes of Independence, 21st Century GOP

To the Editor:

From the moment I first considered public service, I made the following pledge: In the spirit of America's treasured tradition of independence, I would always remain true to my core values and governing principles. I also made a commitment to never paint myself into a corner, because of loosely defined party guidelines.

To the people of Eastern Suffolk, you have my word: I will never be the puppet who blindly obeys party mandate, a role my opponent currently plays to the hilt. If elected Congressman, I will embrace the role of representative and always vote in the best interests of the First Congressional District.

For a variety of reasons, I need steadfast support from every available channel en route to making this happen. For victory in November, I face the challenge of unseating an incumbent, a daunting task no matter how ineffective his track record proves. This task must begin by galvanizing core support from our base.

That is why, after months of reflection, I now call for Suffolk County's GOP chairman, Dr. Harry Withers, to step down. I deeply respect Harry for his years of service to academia and the community, but think the consensus dictates that it is the appropriate time for him to move on and allow the party to advance.

The New County Republican Party leadership should have an active press operation, a state of the art website, a young full time Executive Director, adequate fundraising to support Republican candidates, and more. Most importantly, all endorsed candidates should have the unyielding, tireless support of the Chairman.

Our party's town leadership has been working hard for their candidates and their communities and I commend all of their efforts. The Republican Party must take this opportunity to reenergize, return to our roots and reestablish ourselves for the challenges Long Islanders face in the 21st Century.

The County GOP has faced a series of setbacks and it is time for an infusion of fresh blood and new ideas. Long Island Republicans can either continue to turn a deaf ear to our shortcomings, or make changes, to stem the tide of failures. For me, the decision is clear.

For Election Days to come, this change in leadership will also send a message loud and clear: Long Island's Future Truly Begins Now!

Sincerely,

Lee M. Zeldin

Candidate for Congress

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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.