Candidates vying for Suffolk County executive office optimistic ahead of Election Day

Republican Ed Romaine and Democrat Dave Calone both said they were encouraged by their interactions with the people of the county.

News 12 Staff

Nov 5, 2023, 11:12 PM

Updated 398 days ago

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The two candidates vying for the office of Suffolk County executive said Sunday they were optimistic two days ahead of Election Day.
Republican Ed Romaine and Democrat Dave Calone both said they were encouraged by their interactions with the people of the county.
"I'm up, I'm excited. I've had a great campaign, I've met a lot of wonderful people throughout Suffolk County. I've listened to their concerns," Romaine said.
"We feel great. The turnout has been terrific…and we're seeing real enthusiasm around the county," Calone said.
Romaine is a veteran of county and town politics. He says his experience is what would make him the ideal candidate for the position.
"When you know the county as well as I do, and all the communities that make them up and some of the issues – you’re prepared to lead," Romain said.
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Calone is an investment firm CEO and former federal and state prosecutor. He is also the former chairman of the Suffolk County Planning Commission. He says he brings a unique background to the job.
"You have someone with outside experience, former prosecutor who can keep our communities safe, someone who's a business person who's helped create small businesses here in Suffolk County and around the country," Calone touted.
Volunteers with Calone's team gave him an extra push as they canvassed Babylon on Sunday.
Both candidates say affordability in Suffolk County is a key issue for them.
"My focus is on providing jobs and affordable housing," Romaine stressed.
"So we need to make sure we have places where people can afford to live. That's a critical piece," Calone said.
The two are vying for outgoing County Executive Steve Bellone's seat as he is term limited.
This is just the second time in 20 years where an incumbent has not been on the ballot for Suffolk County executive.