NY Primary Election 2020: Skyler Johnson, 20, Eyes Senate Race

SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY — Voters on Long Island will head to the polls Tuesday to cast their ballots for state and federal offices in New York's primary election.

That includes the 1st Senate District, where a slate of Democrats are hoping to join the race against Republican candidate, current New York State Assemblyman Anthony Palumbo, for the seat held by retiring New York State Senator Kenneth LaValle for 44 years.

Democrats Skyler Johnson, Nora Higgins, Laura Ahearn, Tommy John Schiavoni, and Valerie Cartright are facing off in Tuesday's Democratic primary.

The election is slated for Tuesday, June 23. Under Gov. Andrew Cuomo's order, all registered voters in the state must receive a mail-in ballot application to apply for a postage-paid absentee ballot amid the coronavirus. All ballots postmarked by June 23 will be counted.

District: The 1st New York State Senate district covers the five East End towns and the eastern portion of Brookhaven Town.

Patch has reached out to all the candidates in the primary election. Here are their responses:

Skyler Johnson

Age as of Election Day (Nov. 3)

20

Town of residence

Mount Sinai

Position Sought

State Senate

Party Affiliation

Democrat

Family

Clayton, Debbie, Aidan. My family own a martial arts school in Port Jefferson Station. My little brother joined my campaign team and fights hard for us to win.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education

Associate's Degree from Suffolk County Community College

Occupation

Student

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

N/A

Campaign website

Skylerforsenate.com

Why are you seeking elective office?

The people who are currently holding office are not properly representing us. We have no young people in New York State government, preventing a true multi-generational perspective from taking root. These same elected officials do not pass proper social reform when it comes to issues such as women's rights or LGBTQIA+ rights, and they drag their feet on passing legislation to fix our healthcare or end the housing crisis.

The single most pressing issue facing our nation/state/community is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Healthcare in one of the most pressing issues facing New York. With about 1 million people without healthcare in New York even before the pandemic hit, it is crucial that we pass the New York Health Act, which will guarantee every person in New York has healthcare. Doing this will strengthen the economy of New York State and protect the health of our residents.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I'm the youngest candidate in this race, and in most races nationwide. I have the ability to bring disenfranchised voters into the fold, and connect with people across generations. My unique understanding of policy will be crucial to winning the general election and legislating effectively.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

I have comprehensive plans for about 17 different issues. These include housing, education, the environment, indigenous rights, transit, and much more.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I'm an activist and an organizer. I can bring people together quickly. Just recently, I organized a rally for the Black Lives Matter movement, bringing nearly 1K people together to fight for equality.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Be yourself. While this sounds simple, politics is known for molding people into something they aren't. I have never lot myself in this campaign, and I will continue to fight for what is right.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I'm a young candidate. However, my policies were designed with the help of experts and to create a better future for the people of New York. I encourage you to read my website and learn more about what I plan to do in New York.