Assemblymember Stacey Pheffer Amato, who has represented the 23rd District for the past decade, has announced her retirement and endorsed Pesach Osina as her successor.
Osina officially entered the race for the New York State Assembly seat covering the Rockaways, Broad Channel, Howard Beach, and South Ozone Park. Pheffer Amato’s tenure in the district has been marked by consistent engagement with local communities, including support during Superstorm Sandy recovery efforts and ongoing involvement with synagogues, schools, and civic organizations.
Pheffer Amato described Osina as someone she has worked with closely over the years. “I’ve collaborated with Pesach for the last decade and believe he will serve the community effectively,” she said, noting his focus on supporting first responders, addressing affordability issues, and prioritizing neighborhood needs.
Osina, a longtime Queens resident with roots in the district, brings more than two decades of public service experience. He has held positions within the Assembly District, the New York City Comptroller’s Office, and, most recently, the New York City Council Speaker’s Office for the past four years. In these roles, he has been known for responsiveness and a results-oriented approach.
During Superstorm Sandy, Osina assisted with community preparation, coordinated emergency responses overnight, and later helped distribute aid, block by block. Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, he contributed to organizing food distribution, improving access to testing and vaccinations, and delivering personal protective equipment to those in need. He currently serves as a Commissioner on the New York City Commission on Racial Equity.
As the 23rd Assembly District transitions to new representation, voters will consider candidates based on their records and ability to address local priorities. Osina has emphasized his commitment to public service and community-focused governance.
