GW Law student John DeVito may soon make history as the youngest member of the New York State Senate. The 25-year-old won the state's Democratic Party nomination to represent the Third District in Long Island during the primary election held in September. He clinched 40-percent of the vote, defeating two well-known Democratic challengers.
Mr. DeVito is a proponent of getting young people involved in the political process at the local and national level. He believes that millennials deserve a seat at the table in determining the future of New York. His platform is based on tackling key issues such as education reform, tax relief for middle class families, environmental protection, and creating more jobs in the 21st century. The openly gay candidate says he also vows to be a strong advocate for LGBT rights and to take on corruption and special interest influence in New York's state capital if elected.
DeVito has a financial disadvantage in comparison to his Republican opponent and incumbent, Tom Croci. As of last month, he had $45,000 in campaign funds compared to Croci's $131,000. However, DeVito is hopeful that winning the primary will help him close the gap and yield more campaign funds.
Mr. DeVito has taken a leave of absence from the rigors of law school to focus on his grassroots campaign. The outcome of the race will be determined on November 8.