LONG ISLAND, NY — Incumbent Republican Assemb. Doug Smith appears to lead the race for the 5th Assembly District with 59.11% to his Democratic challenger, Michael Reynolds' 31.95%, according to unofficial results from the state's Board of Elections.
In a post to Facebook, Smith thanked friends and neighbors "for the incredible honor" of choosing him again for the state's Assembly.
"Growing up here and now raising my own family in this community, I am humbled to be entrusted with the responsibility of representing your families, values, and hopes for a brighter future," he said. "This victory is a testament to our shared commitment to making Long Island a great place to live, work, and raise a family."
He also thanked his opponent, Reynolds, for "putting himself forward as a candidate for public office and for offering ideas to make our community a better place."
"I’m eager to continue advocating for our community in Albany and to work tirelessly for a safer, more affordable New York," he said. "Thank you for your faith in me and for allowing me the privilege to serve. Here’s to all that we’ll accomplish together."
Incumbent Smith, of Holbrook, has served in the assembly since 2019. In 2022's election, he garnered 67 percent of the vote in his district.
Reynolds, of Lake Ronkonkoma, is a political newcomer who works in the private sector as a vice president of operations.
He told Patch that he is grateful for "the support of the community and the people who volunteered" to help with his campaign.
"I had fun knocking on doors and talking to folks about their concerns and how I could be of service," he said. "Doug Smith is well known and respected by the community and I wish him well."
The 5th Assembly District stretches from Islandia, Lake Ronkonkoma, and Lake Grove in the west to the Selden and Farmingville area in the east, and includes a portion of North Patchogue.
Source: https://patch.com/new-york/medford-ny/nys-5th-ad-election-results-doug-smith-vs-michael-reynolds
