Nick LaLota

Nick LaLota is an American politician and former United States Navy officer serving as the U.S. representative for New York's 1st congressional district since 2023. A member of the Republican Party, he succeeded Lee Zeldin after winning the 2022 election. His district encompasses the eastern half of Long Island, including much of Suffolk County and areas like Smithtown and the Hamptons. Prior to his election to Congress, LaLota served as the Commissioner of the Suffolk County Board of Elections and as chief of staff to the Suffolk County Legislature.

Early life and education

Nick LaLota was born on June 23, 1978, in Suffolk County, New York, and was raised in Amityville. He attended local public schools before receiving an appointment to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. He graduated in 2001 with a Bachelor of Science degree and was commissioned as an ensign in the United States Navy. Following his active-duty service, LaLota earned a Master of Science in Government from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C..

Military service

Commissioned from the United States Naval Academy, LaLota served on active duty from 2001 to 2011, attaining the rank of lieutenant. His service included deployments during the Iraq War, where he served as a surface warfare officer aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS ''Ross'' (DDG-71). His military awards include the Navy Commendation Medal and the Navy Achievement Medal. Following his active duty, he continued serving in the United States Navy Reserve.

Political career

Before his election to federal office, LaLota built a career in Suffolk County government and politics. He served as chief of staff to the Presiding Officer of the Suffolk County Legislature, where he worked on budgetary and constituent services. He was later appointed as a Commissioner of the bipartisan Suffolk County Board of Elections, overseeing the administration of elections in one of New York's largest counties. In 2022, he won the Republican primary for the open seat in New York's 1st congressional district and defeated Democratic candidate Bridget Fleming in the general election.

Electoral history

In the 2022 election for New York's 1st congressional district, LaLota secured the Republican nomination after a competitive primary. He faced Suffolk County Legislator Bridget Fleming, the Democratic nominee, in the general election. LaLota won the election with approximately 55% of the vote, succeeding retiring Republican Lee Zeldin. The race was monitored by national committees including the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee and the National Republican Congressional Committee.

Political positions

LaLota is a member of the Republican Main Street Partnership and aligns with mainstream Republican policy positions. He has emphasized support for the United States Armed Forces, law enforcement, and strengthening border security, including support for the United States Border Patrol. He serves on the House Committee on Homeland Security and the House Committee on Armed Services. LaLota has voiced opposition to tax increases and has focused on issues affecting Long Island, such as supporting the Long Island Sound and addressing concerns about offshore wind power.

Personal life

LaLota resides in Amityville with his wife, Kaylie, and their two children. He is a member of the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. His personal interests and community involvement are often centered on veterans' affairs and local Suffolk County organizations. Category:1978 births Category:Living people Category:Members of the United States House of Representatives from New York Category:New York Republicans Category:United States Naval Academy alumni Category:Georgetown University alumni Category:United States Navy officers Category:People from Suffolk County, New York Category:American military personnel of the Iraq War