Michael Vanunu for Nassau Legislative District 12
Michael Vanunu, of Merrick, is the Democratic candidate in this district. Credit: James Escher
Find out the candidates Newsday's editorial board has selected on your ballot: newsday.com/endorsements2026
The 12th District includes the southwestern part of the Town of Hempstead including Bellmore, Merrick and a small part of Wantagh.
The 12th Legislative District faces a choice this year — between two Michaels from Merrick.
When Republican incumbent Michael J. Giangregorio, 61, ran for his first full term in 2023, Newsday Opinion hoped he would "add new ideas and vigor." Instead, Giangregorio says little.
Giangregorio, who has a son with autism, introduced Nassau County's Blue Envelope Program, which allows neurodivergent drivers to have a blue seat belt strap to alert police officers. That's a positive initiative, but Giangregorio shows little separation from the administration when more independent oversight is needed.
Democrat Michael Vanunu, 40, is a worthy alternative. Vanunu, an attorney, says he assessed the county budget and calls it "a big house of cards." He's critical of Liberty Water and supports municipalization, promising he will be diligent about raising his voice in every forum to get the conversion done. He's well-versed in the county's challenges and the legislature could use his energy.
Newsday Opinion endorses Vanunu.
ENDORSEMENTS ARE DETERMINED solely by the Newsday editorial board, a team of opinion journalists focused on issues of public policy and governance. Newsday’s news division has no role in this process.
