The 17th District includes Hicksville, Bethpage and parts of Farmingdale and North Massapequa.

In her nearly 16 years in office, incumbent Rose Marie Walker has been a steady, popular presence. The Hicksville Republican has tentatively moved forward on issues like housing in Hicksville. But each step forward comes with a step back.

That was apparent when Oyster Bay Town initially rejected a Bethpage mosque's expansion. After receiving Islamophobic and anti-mosque commentary from constituents, Walker, 74, strongly opposed the mosque's plans. The planning board's subsequent denial discussed a grandmother concerned about traffic and safety, later identified as Walker.

Walker's words and actions spoke volumes. Walker did not meet with the editorial board.

Attorney Ryan J. Johnson, 33, is c

See Full Page