Republican Bruce Blakeman took over as Nassau County Executive this week.
Blakeman said he wants the county to be “normal again” at a speech on Monday during his swearing-in ceremony. He said he supports COVID-19 vaccinations but has no plans to back the state’s indoor mask mandate.
"Government has an important role in giving people options to create a healthier environment. But government should not act in a heavy-handed way by curtailing important constitutional rights, such as the right of patients and their physicians to make healthcare decisions,” he said.
Blakeman was a former Hempstead Town Councilman. He was elected by just over 2,000 votes in his race against incumbent Democrat Laura Curran.
Blakeman campaigned on promises to increase law enforcement and overhaul the property tax system.
Nassau County Republicans also captured the district attorney and comptroller offices.
"I will be happy to join with our new District Attorney, Annie Donnelly, and our law enforcement professionals to go up to Albany and demand the repeal of the Bail Reform Act," Blakeman said. "Criminals have more rights than victims. Enough is enough"
