NYS Assembly District 1 Preview: Fred Thiele Vs. Peter Ganley

SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY — Incumbent New York State Assemblyman Fred Thiele, a Democrat who has served the 1st Assembly District since 1995, is being challenged by Republican Peter Ganley in the Nov. 8 general election.

The candidates:

• Fred Thiele (Democrat)
  
• Peter Ganley (Republican)
  

In 2020, Thiele defeated Heather Collins, a Republican, by a vote of 40,689 to 29,133.

Thiele has served as Suffolk County legislator from 1988 to 1991, Southampton Town Supervisor from 1992 to 1995, and New York State Assemblyman from 1995 to the present time.

"My career has been dedicated to improving the quality of life on the East End of Long Island. For example, I authored the Peconic Bay Community Preservation Fund, which has protected more than 10,000 acres of land across the East End. I wish to continue that work particularly in the areas of the environment, water quality, public transportation, affordable housing, and education," he said.

Ganley, of Cutchogue, who formerly served on Rep. Lee Zeldin's staff, spoke to Patch about his reasons for running. "I am running for NYS Assembly to improve and protect my community. I am running to be an independent voice and advocate for the East End of Long Island. I am running to cut reckless taxes and spending, preserve and protect our environment, increase public safety, repeal cashless bail, implement term limits and change the culture of corruption in Albany."

Assembly District 1 covers the East End towns of East Hampton, Southampton, Shelter Island, and Center Moriches, as well as some of eastern Brookhaven Town.