Nassau Democrats celebrate historic victory as Joe Scianablo wins Hempstead Town supervisor race
The win makes Scianablo just the second Democrat elected Hempstead Town Supervisor in more than a century.
More Stories
Nassau Democrats are celebrating a historic election victory after reclaiming the Town of Hempstead supervisor's office.
Joe Scianablo declared victory Tuesday night after defeating Republican incumbent John Ferretti, who took office in 2025.
The win makes Scianablo just the second Democrat elected Hempstead Town Supervisor in more than a century.
"People are sending a clear message in this town that they want a government that represents them," says Scianablo. "I promise to represent everyone in the Town of Hempstead, even those who didn't vote for me."
Scianablo says he has already spoken with Ferretti and expects a smooth transition of power.
"I have spoken to John Ferretti. He congratulated me and he assured me that there'd be a seamless transition," says Scianablo.
The last Democrat to win the office was Laura Gillen in 2017. Gillen recalled the challenges she faced when she took office.
"I came here and it was really, really challenging to be the first Democrat in 112 years. They were not happy to see me when I got here," says Gillen. "I do worry about that the board is very different now than it was. The councilmembers are different than when I was there, so maybe this board will be a little bit more friendly. I hope that's the case."
Hofstra Executive Dean of Suburban Studies Larry Levy said Scianablo will need to work closely with the Republican-majority Town Board to advance his agenda.
"He really has one vote on the town council, and he can propose anything he wants. But he needs the votes of the Republican majority, and he'll have to find a way to persuade them that working together on a few priorities is good for everybody," says Levy.
News 12 requested an interview with Ferretti multiple times on Wednesday but was told he was unavailable.
