Democratic Nassau County Legislatures being sworn in during the induction of the 16th Nassau County Legislature.
Photo by Peter M. Budraitis
Nassau County legislators were sworn into office during an inaugural ceremony at the Cradle of Aviation Museum on Thursday, Jan. 8, formally beginning the 2026 legislative term following countywide redistricting.
Republicans hold an 11-8 majority on the 19-member Legislature, with the Democrats flipping one seat. Republicans previously held a 12-7 majority.
Nassau County Legislature swearing in ceremony. Photo provided by Town of North HempsteadNassau County Legislator Minority Leader Delia DeRiggi-Whitton being sworn in. Photo by Peter M. Budraitis
Democrats flipped one seat in the November election, winning District 14. Democrat Cynthia Nunez received 56% of the votes, while Republican Sheharyar Ali garnered just 44%.
Nassau County Republican Legislators being sworn in. Photo provided by Town of North HempsteadLegislators Viviana L. Russell, Scott M. Davis and Cynthia Nuñez. Photo by Chris Portuondodesmith
Democrat Viviana Russell of District 2 and Republican Kayla Knight of District 15 are also new faces joining the legislature this year. None of the three ran against incumbents.
The swearing-in marked the official start of the new term, with legislators expected to address issues including taxes, infrastructure, public safety and affordability in the year ahead.
North Hempstead Town Supervisor Jennifer DeSena, Legislator Mazi Pilip and Council Member Yaron Levy (L. to R.).Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, Legislator Mazi Pilip, North Hempstead Town Supervisor Jennifer DeSena and Council Member Yaron Levy at the swearing in of the Nassau County Legislature. Photo provided by Town of North HempsteadNassau County Democratic caucus with New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli. Photo by Peter M. Budraitis
