New York State Senate District 8

Current seat holder: Alexis Weik.

Josh Taveras

Josh Taveras was born in Bay Shore, New York. Taveras earned a high school diploma from Walter G. O'Connell Copiague High School and a bachelor's degree from Stony Brook University in 2024. His career experience includes working as a store manager.

Campaign site

“I worked my way through retail management, public service, and higher education, eventually earning my degree in political science from Stony Brook University after years of financial and institutional barriers. Along the way, I became deeply involved in civic engagement, labor advocacy, and community organizing because I saw firsthand how policy decisions shape everyday life.” (Ballotpedia Candidate Connection (2026))
“Affordability First Long Island families are being crushed by rising costs, housing, utilities, healthcare, and childcare, while wages lag behind. My campaign is focused on practical solutions that lower everyday expenses and help working people stay rooted in the communities they love.” (Ballotpedia Candidate Connection (2026))
“Progress with Common Sense I believe in progressive values, fairness, dignity, and opportunity, paired with responsible governance. That means investing in public transit, education, and healthcare while being honest about costs and outcomes.” (Ballotpedia Candidate Connection (2026))

Jarett Gandolfo

Jarett Gandolfo was elected to the New York State Assembly on November 3, 2020. The 7th Assembly District includes parts of Suffolk County, including Bay Shore, Brightwaters, Islip, East Islip, Islip Terrace, Great River, Oakdale, Bohemia, West Sayville, Sayville, Bayport, Blue Point, Patchogue, Fire Island and East Patchogue. Prior to being elected to the Assembly, Jarett worked alongside former Assemblyman Andrew Garbarino as his chief of staff.

Campaign site

“As a Director, he guides the agency as it works to improve communities throughout the Town of Islip.” (Ballotpedia Candidate Connection (2020))
“Public Safety, Environmental, Education, Economy” (Ballotpedia Candidate Connection (2020))
“We appreciate NYSDOT’s swift response in completing emergency repairs and reopening the bridge. However, I don’t think anyone is comfortable with the pavement eroding to the point that we can see the water below.” (Official legislative newsroom (nyassembly.gov))