U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi, the Democratic nominee running for re-election in New York’s Third Congressional District, officially kicked off his campaign with support from over a dozen local mayors and unveiled a five-point “American Affordability Plan” aimed at the forces squeezing Long Island and Queens families.

Suozzi, along with 16 village mayors (five independents, five Republicans, and six Democrats), announced his official re-election campaign at a press conference in Mineola on Tuesday, Sept. 8. Suozzi said his campaign will focus on three central promises: make life more affordable, work with anyone of goodwill to solve problems, and fight the political division that is tearing the country apart.

“Five policies from this administration are making life more expensive, and I have a five-point plan to fight back, lower costs and help people keep more of what they earn,” he said.

Suozzi said his “American Affordability Plan” offers practical steps to cut everyday costs, reduce waste, grow the economy and put more money back into the pockets of working families. He said his plan involves cutting what he calls “irresponsible tariffs” and bringing jobs back to the United States, phasing out the Iran War while also keeping the U.S. safe, paying down the national debt and lowing interest rates, make it easier for energy projects to be approved, and to make healthcare more affordable.

Several village mayors backed Suozzi during the press conference, calling the incumbent a representative who cares about his constituents.

“My residents are sick and tired of politicians who are always fighting instead of trying to get things done. That’s why I am endorsing Tom Suozzi, because ‘he sees things our way,” Mineola Village Mayor Paul Pereira, an Independent, said Tuesday.

“Having the support of local mayors means more to me than I can say,” Suozzi said.

Suozzi is facing off against Republican candidate Mike LiPetri, who has framed his campaign around what he called common sense, economic opportunity and public safety. LiPetri has been publicly endorsed by President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and U.S. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson during their trips to Long Island over the past few months.

Suozzi was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2016, serving for three terms before unsuccessfully running for governor in 2022. He then returned to Congress in 2024 to fill a House seat after George Santos was removed from office.