Libertarian Christian Padgett Is 1 Of 2 Challengers Running Against Suffolk County Clerk Vincent Puleo

SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY — Political newcomer Christian Padgett, a Libertarian, is one of two challengers looking to unseat Suffolk County Clerk Vincent Puleo in his bid for re-election on Nov. 3.

Patch has reached out to Puleo's campaign team.

This is what Padgett had to say in his Patch election questionnaire:

How old will you be as of Election Day?: 61

Does your campaign have a website?: No

What city or town do you live in?: Port Jefferson Station

What office are you seeking?: Suffolk County Clerk

Party affiliation: Libertarian

Education: Associate's degree from SUNY Farmingdale, Class of '85.

What is your occupation?: Retired letter carrier

Do you have a family? If so, please tell us about them:

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?:

Have you ever held a public office, whether appointive or elective?: No.

Now we'd like to ask a few questions about your reasons for running for election and your general views on politics and government. First, why are you seeking this office?: To offer voters a choice against an incumbent who is running unopposed. To bring light to the rampant patronage that costs Suffolk taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing constituents is: For those using the county clerk's office, its efficient service. Generally, it's affordability.

What needs to be done to address water quality issues on LI?: Protecting the aquifer that provides our drinking water is of utmost importance, and I will leave it experts on how to best do that.

What do you think can be done to help improve our infrastructure, highways, etc.?

How would you plan to help local business owners, who are struggling because of high rents, inflation, and labor shortages?:

How are federal issues impacting local government?:

What is your stance on how ICE enforcement has impacted local communities?:

What are the major differences between you and the other candidate seeking this post?:

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?:

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?:

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?:

What is the best advice anyone has ever given you and why?: