In a highly anticipated special election, Mazi Pilip, an Ethiopian-Israeli immigrant and vocal critic of the Biden administration's border policies, is vying to replace former GOP Rep. George Santos. Pilip, a relative political newcomer serving as a Republican county legislator, is challenging her Democratic opponent, former Rep. Tom Suozzi, who previously held the seat from 2017 to 2023.

During a recent debate, the two candidates sparred over key issues, including immigration and abortion. Pilip called out Suozzi for supporting open borders during his time in Congress and attributed the border crisis to policies implemented by the Biden administration. She stressed the importance of securing the border and establishing a plan to address the situation, expressing concern about unvetted individuals entering the country and potential threats to national security.

Pilip shared her support for legal immigration, highlighting her personal experience as an individual who immigrated to the United States legally. She emphasized that responsible immigration is essential and criticized the current approach, citing the smuggling of drugs and firearms across the border.

If elected to Congress, Pilip pledged to support the impeachment of Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, holding him accountable for failing to protect the American people. However, a recent vote to impeach Mayorkas fell short, leaving Santos' seat vacant after his expulsion from the House in December.

Suozzi countered Pilip's criticism by proposing solutions to the border crisis, pointing to a Senate bill that addresses border security, asylum seekers, and providing aid to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. He accused Pilip of lacking solutions and emphasized the need for comprehensive immigration reform.

According to a Siena College poll conducted for Newsday from February 3 to February 6, Suozzi currently holds a slight lead over Pilip among likely voters, with 48% supporting Suozzi and 44% supporting Pilip. The special election, scheduled for February 13, is closely watched as both candidates vie for control of New York's 3rd Congressional District.

Early voting began on February 3 in the district, allowing constituents an opportunity to cast their ballots for their preferred candidate. As the election date approaches, the contest between Pilip and Suozzi continues to draw attention, and the outcome will likely have significant implications for the district and the country.