Erin McTiernan moved one step closer Thursday to becoming the new Republican commissioner of the Suffolk County Board of Elections as the board prepares to usher in a new voting era in 2026.

The Suffolk County Legislature’s Ways & Means Committee unanimously adopted a resolution to appoint McTiernan, 41, of Port Jefferson, to the new role. The full legislature can formally sign off on the appointment at Wednesday’s general meeting.

McTiernan, a deputy commissioner, will succeed current Commissioner Betty Manzella, who resigned effective Sept. 8 . McTiernan will begin the top role alongside Democratic Commissioner John Alberts as the board transitions voters to new touch screen machines next year.

McTiernan said in an interview that the county’s Board of Elections will be using the cur

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