Joe DeStefano is a Republican/Conservative member of the New York State Assembly representing District 3 since 2019. The district covers portions of the town of Brookhaven, including Bellport and Mastic Beach in Suffolk County on Long Island. A resident of Medford, he was first elected in 2018 after defeating Democratic opponent Clyde Parker 54% to 46%, following the previous incumbent's run for state Senate. In 2026, Suffolk County Republicans nominated him for a fifth term, with his campaign emphasizing affordability, public safety, tax relief , a state spending cap, repeal of cashless bail laws, and opposition to certain climate policies increasing energy costs.

Education and Political Experience

Limited public details are available on DeStefano's formal education from the sources reviewed. His political experience includes serving continuously in the New York State Assembly since 2019 as a member of the Republican Conference, where he focuses on community safety, legislation support, and committee work. He has been active in local GOP efforts and prioritizes issues like fighting "reckless spending" and enhancing public safety in Albany sessions.