Rockaway Election: Osina Wins Assembly Seat

Pesach Osina will take a seat in the New York State Assembly after defeating Republican challenger Tom Sullivan in the 23rd District race on Tuesday, Nov. 3. The Far Rockaway Democrat secured the position previously held by Stacey Pheffer Amato, who served the district for ten years. Osina’s victory ends a months-long campaign across the Rockaway peninsula, Broad Channel, Howard Beach, and Ozone Park.

Osina declared his win at The Alibi in Ozone Park shortly after 9:30 p.m. Supporters cheered and chanted his name by 9:45 p.m. as the results solidified. With more than 97% of scanners reporting, Osina had accumulated 17,863 votes, or approximately 52%. Sullivan received 16,492 votes, or roughly 48%. Sullivan briefly held a lead of a few votes during the early stages of the count before falling behind.

Voting patterns in heavily Orthodox Jewish areas of Far Rockaway showed a split-ticket dynamic. Voters in these sections backed Republican Bruce Blakeman for governor while supporting Osina for Assembly. In districts where half of the scanners had reported, both candidates garnered over 95% of the local vote. This alignment allowed Osina to maintain a consistent lead in those specific neighborhoods.

Osina enters office after two decades in government roles. He previously worked in the Assembly District 23 office, the New York City Comptroller’s office, and the New York City Council Speaker’s office for the past four years. He won the Democratic primary earlier in the year, defeating Howard Beach attorney Mike Scala by a margin of approximately 61% to 39%.

Outgoing Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato described the transition as a bittersweet moment. She noted that the trust built with constituents over her tenure was her most valued achievement. Pheffer Amato called Osina sincere and humble, stating that his background as a connector suits the diverse needs of the peninsula. Her term concludes at the end of the coming month.

Former Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder, who served the district before Pheffer Amato, attended the victory celebration. He recalled Osina helping open his district office in 2011 and leading recovery efforts after Hurricane Sandy in 2012. Goldfeder emphasized that Osina’s commitment to service transcends party lines. He stated that Osina proved his dedication during the hurricane and its aftermath.

Osina addressed the crowd with a message of unity for the district. He pledged to visit every community in the 23rd District to listen to concerns firsthand. He stated that his goal is to continue the legacy of past representatives and ensure the area receives the resources it requires. Sullivan’s supporters were included in his promise to represent all constituents.