NEW YORK (TIP): The Trump Administration, yesterday, suddenly and without warning, notified several agencies across Long Island and throughout America of the immediate termination of grants. Several Long Island institutions quickly reported to Congressman Suozzi’s office that nearly $2 million in SAMHSA grants have been cut, and possibly more. Nationwide, 2000 organizations have been cut off from $2 billion in funding.
Congressman Suozzi reached out to the affected organizations. He joined more than 100 colleagues in the House of Representatives, both Democrats and Republicans, on the attached letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Kennedy to express bipartisan outrage at these sudden cuts.
“We strongly urge you to rescind all of the terminations immediately. Too many people across the country are suffering without the necessary resources. We must ensure that SAMHSA programs serve their congressionally intended purpose of getting lifesaving resources to our communities,” the letter reads.
That evening, the cuts were reversed.
“This pattern and practice of cutting programs without warning that not-for-profits are counting on, in the middle of the fiscal year, is unfair, unproductive, and maddening. While I’m relieved these cuts were reversed, we can’t keep doing this,” said Suozzi.
“Without warning, grants were terminated. It’s a reckless and awful move that undermines efforts to deliver drug treatment, alcohol counseling, and mental health care,” said Suozzi. “These programs are how we save lives and help our neighbors and loved ones escape the grip of opioids and other addictive drugs. Cutting off already-awarded grants throws organizations into chaos and puts patients at risk. Addiction and mental health crises do not stop mid-year, and neither should the support systems people depend on.”
Nearly $2 million in funding cuts would have impacted organizations in the 3rd Congressional District. CN Guidance has reported $1,250,000 in cuts to programs to address child trauma, drug addiction, and mental health first aid training. The Family and Children’s Association has reported $125,000 in cuts to mental health first aid training. The YES Community Counseling Center has reported $544,970 in cuts to its Bridge Program to curb addiction in young adults.
Suozzi’s office is in contact with local organizations and will ensure their funding cuts are reversed.
Americans suffered enormously because of the government shutdown—an ordeal that millions across the nation widely believe was both unnecessary and entirely avoidable. For 43 days, the “land of the free and the home of the brave” watched its own people scourged by political brinkmanship: federal workers lining up at food banks, families forced to choose between rent and groceries, airports pushed to the brink, and businesses frozen in uncertainty. But thank God, after weeks of hardship and chaos, the shutdown has finally ended. The relief is palpable—among employers, employees, lawmakers, and every American who felt the tremors of a government brought to a halt.
Yet as the nation exhales, another set of questions rises urgently to the surface: Why did this shutdown happen at all? What did it accomplish? Who gained, who lost—and what does it mean for the American people going forward? The Readers of The Indian Panorama deserve a clear and analytical examination grounded in facts, figures, and the lessons this painful episode has left behind.
How It Began: A Political Showdown With National Consequences
At the heart of the shutdown was a bitter standoff over federal spending, tied to a contentious border-security funding demand. Though disagreements over the national budget are not new, the scale and duration of this shutdown were unprecedented. It became the longest in American history—43 days—surpassing the previous record of 35 days in 2018–19.
The immediate victims were the 800,000 federal employees who were either furloughed or forced to work without pay. Millions more—federal contractors, small-business owners, service workers, and families dependent on federal operations—felt the shockwaves. Approximately 4 million federal contract workers lost income, much of which was never reimbursed. Scientific research projects halted, court proceedings slowed, IRS operations were compromised at a critical tax-season moment, and food-safety inspections were scaled back.
This raised a critical question: Was it necessary to shut down the world’s most powerful government to resolve a political disagreement? To millions of Americans, the answer was clearly no.
The Economic Cost: Billions Lost, Recovery Partial
Shutdowns have always been costly, but the severity of this one left a measurable dent in the national economy. The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) produced a clear, data-driven assessment:
$11 billion in total economic losses.
$3 billion permanently lost—never to be recovered.
Thousands of delayed loans to small businesses by the Small Business Administration,
Hundreds of millions lost by airlines and airport-service vendors.
National parks, operating without staff, suffered millions of dollars in damage from vandalism, littering, and infrastructure wear. In Washington, D.C., restaurants that depend heavily on federal workers reported revenue drops of 30–50%. Across the country, families canceled vacations, postponed purchases, and withdrew from local commerce.
No political objective—whatever its merit—justifies economic losses of this magnitude.
Political Gains and Losses: Costly Gamble for All
Shutdowns are often viewed through the prism of political victory and defeat. Yet this episode revealed something unusual: there were no winners.
For the Administration
The administration framed the shutdown as a strategic necessity to secure funding for a central policy commitment. But public opinion told a different story.
Surveys showed:
53% of Americans blamed the administration for the shutdown.
34% blamed the opposition party.
Presidential approval ratings dropped nearly 4 percentage points during the crisis.
More importantly, the shutdown ended without achieving the policy goal that triggered it. This raised doubts about whether the strategy had ever been viable—or merely symbolic.
For Congress
Congressional leaders projected firmness, arguing that yielding would set a dangerous precedent allowing any President to shut down government to extract concessions. In that sense, Congress succeeded in protecting the constitutional balance of powers.
Yet within this broader struggle, it is important to acknowledge the courage of Democratic lawmakers who chose principle over partisanship to help end the impasse. Among them was Congressman Tom Suozzi, who represents this writer in Congress and who broke from party lines in the interest of the American people. At a time when political polarization seemed immovable, leaders like Suozzi—willing to step across the aisle and support measures to reopen the government—played a meaningful role in easing the suffering of millions. Their commitment to country over political calculation deserves recognition and appreciation.
Still, in terms of public perception, the legislature as a whole appeared dysfunctional. Nearly 70% of Americans expressed frustration with both parties’ inability to compromise and avert the crisis.
For the American People
The greatest burden fell on federal workers and ordinary citizens. The shutdown produced images that shook the nation:
TSA agents working without pay.
Coast Guard families visiting food pantries
Air-traffic controllers filing stress and hardship reports.
Federal prison guards unable to pay utility bills.
Scientists forced to stop critical experiments mid-stream.
These are not abstract policy consequences; they are snapshots of real American lives thrown into turmoil.
Why Americans Believe the Shutdown Was Unnecessary
Public frustration stemmed from a simple perception: there were multiple alternative paths to negotiation that would not have required halting government services. Past administrations—Republican and Democratic alike—have navigated bitter disagreements without shutting the nation down.
Three core arguments shaped public sentiment:
Shutdowns do not work.
Historically, they have rarely produced policy concessions.
Shutdowns inflict severe and disproportionate harm.
The economic losses far outweigh any political leverage gained.
Shutdowns undermine global confidence in American governance.
Allies and markets watch closely. Political chaos weakens the credibility of a nation that prides itself on stability.
The shutdown was widely seen as a political gambit whose costs far exceeded any conceivable benefits.
Lessons Learned: A Warning for the Future
The episode leaves the nation with sobering lessons.
First, America must acknowledge that governing through brinkmanship is unsustainable. Essential governmental functions cannot be weaponized in political disputes.
Second, lawmakers must consider structural reforms.
Automatic continuing resolutions to prevent shutdowns.
Protection of essential workers from unpaid labor.
Faster dispute-resolution processes.
Stronger bipartisan budget negotiations.
Third, the shutdown highlighted the fragility of public trust in national institutions. When the world’s richest democracy cannot pay its own employees for more than a month, the credibility of its governance comes into question.
A Moment of Relief—But Not Without Reflection
With the shutdown finally over, the nation feels relief—but also anxiety. Relief that paychecks will resume. Relief that airports and national parks will function properly again. But anxiety that another shutdown may loom in the future, should political divisions once again reach a boiling point.
For the sake of federal workers, the economy, and the very reputation of American democracy, this episode must serve as a clear warning: shutdowns do not strengthen the nation—they fracture it.
The longest shutdown in American history should remain exactly that: the longest ever, never to be repeated. The suffering of “the free and the brave” should not become a recurring cost of political ambition. America deserves better—more responsible leadership, more principled negotiation, and a government that never again turns its own people into collateral damage.
NEW YORK (TIP): Long Island’s two Democratic U.S. House members are raising millions of dollars to fuel their 2026 campaigns in competitive districts, while the latest campaign finance reports show little activity by any foes, says a Newsday report
With more than a year to go before the next elections, the Island’s two Republican congressmen also have been building their war chests since January, new Federal Election Commission filings show.
“Raising in the off year is an integral part of campaigning. Now is the time where members can stockpile cash without spending heavily, and that’s especially true in such an expensive media market,” said Jacob Rubashkin, deputy editor of Inside Elections, a nonpartisan political handicapper of races for House and Senate seats.
Rep. Tom Suozzi (D-Glen Cove) has hauled in the most so far among Long Islanders in the House. His campaign committee collected $2.4 million from January through Sept. 30, the 46th highest incumbent dollar total in the 435-seat House this year.
Overall, more than $3.8 million now sits in Suozzi’s campaign coffers, including money he already had, and after spending or disbursing more than $585,000 this year. That cash-on-hand amount also is the highest among the Long Island House members.
No reports have been filed outlining fundraising amounts by any potential challengers for New York’s 3rd Congressional District, from either party.
Freshman Rep. Laura Gillen (D-Rockville Centre) is viewed by several nonpartisan political handicappers as among the most vulnerable House incumbents from either party, nationally. She has raised more than $2 million since January — the 66th highest amount in the House.
More than $1.54 million now sits in her campaign coffers, after spending or distributing $480,485 this year.
Another Democrat running for Gillen’s 4th Congressional District seat, Gian Jones, reported no fundraising since January but showed $9,582 in his war chest and $2,348 in loans owed. A third Democrat, Nicholas Jude Sciretta, reported collecting $7. The FEC did not immediately have fundraising information posted or processed from two others, Brian Miller and Dennis Joseph McGrath, both Republicans.
Across the aisle, Rep. Nick LaLota (R-Amityville) reported raising $1.73 million this year through Sept. 30, the 91st highest amount in the House. LaLota’s main campaign committee spent or disbursed $350,250, and he reported having $2.05 million on hand.
Two Democrats running for New York’s 1st Congressional District seat held by LaLota also filed reports. Christopher Gallant reported raising $222,832 and has $134,950 cash on hand. Democrat Lukas Ventouras reported taking in $19,312, including in a loan of $3,800.
Rep. Andrew Garbarino (R-Bayport) reported raising $1.27 million this year — the 145th highest total in the House. His committee reported having $1.9 million in the bank, after expenditures.
Former Suffolk County Executive Patrick Halpin, a Democrat who is running to seize New York’s 2nd Congressional District seat, reported raising $218,948 and having $171,797 on hand. Another Democrat, Josh Taveras, reported raising $1,105 and having $187 on hand.
While neither Suozzi nor Gillen have significant GOP opposition yet, Rubashkin said both eventually will.
(Source: Newsday)
The bipartisan letter asks the Secretary of State Rubio for a Member’s Briefing on the ongoing recovery efforts in India and Pakistan following last month’s devastating floods
WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): In a rare and powerful show of bipartisan unity, Chair of the Pakistan Caucus and active member of the India Caucus, Congressman Tom Suozzi (D–NY), and his co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Pakistan Caucus Rep. Jack Bergman (R-MI), as well as the bipartisan Chairs of the India Caucus, Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA) and Rep. McCormick (R-GA) joined in a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The letter requested a briefing on the U.S. response to catastrophic floods that recently devastated communities across both India and Pakistan.
This bipartisan letter highlights the devastating toll of the flooding and the personal impact it has had on South Asian American communities across the United States.
“In the aftermath of last month’s horrific floods, I stand with my Indian and Pakistani constituents and admire their resilience in the face of such hardship,” said Congressman Suozzi. “In my capacity as Chair of the Pakistan Caucus, and as an active member of the India Caucus, I am proud to join my Co-Chair, Rep. Jack Bergman, along with the India Caucus Chairs, in sending a joint letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Natural disasters do not recognize borders. This bilateral and bipartisan collaboration shows that, in the face of tragedy, we must stand united in our common purpose to support our communities.”
The letter, sent September 23, requests a briefing for Members of Congress on the status of U.S. assistance and recovery coordination. It notes the destruction of homes, businesses, and cultural and religious landmarks, including the Kartarpur Sahib, a powerful symbol of peace between India and Pakistan.
“As Members of Congress who represent large Indian and Pakistani American populations, we are hearing firsthand from families whose ancestral homes have been lost, whose livelihoods have been wiped out,” the lawmakers wrote. “We are thankful for the immense help provided by the United States government as well as the Indian and Pakistani diasporas.”
Suozzi emphasized that “working across party lines and across borders isn’t just possible, it’s essential. Our communities deserve that kind of leadership.”
Suozzi predicted this layoff reversal in February; has since advocated for this policy change
WASHINGTON, D.C (TIP): Congressman Tom Suozzi, a Member of the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Oversight, which oversees the IRS (Internal Revenue Service), announced today that the agency is reversing their decision to let go of tens of thousands of employees. In an abrupt policy change, the Trump Administration plans to cancel its layoff policy and hire back some of its ex-employees.
Suozzi and his Democratic colleagues had previously pushed for more hiring, arguing that IRS employees not only bring in much more money that they cost by requiring wealthy individuals and businesses to pay their fair share of taxes owed, but that they also provide better customer service, guiding Americans through tax season and year-long compliance.
At several Ways and Means hearings and in a handful of statements earlier this year, Suozzi warned against continued chaotic mass layoffs of crucial employees. He pointed out that, as had been done at several agencies already, the federal government would inevitably scramble to bring workers back. He predicted the same fate for the IRS and now, fortunately, those predictions have come true.
Suozzi even pointed out this pattern in his questioning of Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and, in February, authored an Op-Ed about the chaotic approach DOGE was taking to rid the government of waste and fraud, specifically at the IRS. In it, he wrote:
“DOGE dysfunction reveals itself at the IRS, where thousands of probationary workers are set to be laid off in the middle of tax season — despite earlier instructions that tax workers couldn’t accept buyouts until after the filing deadline. The abrupt firing of dozens of employees from the National Nuclear Security Administration, under the guise of efficiency, put national security at risk. The agency, responsible for overseeing the U.S. nuclear stockpile and counterterrorism efforts, was left scrambling. In a stunning reversal, the administration attempted to rehire many employees it had dismissed, only to face difficulties due to hastily revoked access to federal systems.
DOGE’s bull-in-a-china-shop execution — clumsy and careless — is causing more damage than actual reform. Lawsuits invoking Civil Service law and union contracts could end up costing the federal government more than the attempted cuts.”
Congressman Suozzi also hosted an in-person budget briefing in March of 2025. One of the featured speakers was a Long Island woman who was laid off from the IRS under the DOGE plan. Not only was she processing backlog cases—collecting money for the federal government—all the way back to 2022, but she was also 7 months pregnant, dependent on the health insurance she received from her employer.
Congressman Suozzi is applauding the news that the IRS is planning to halt its layoff program and hire back fired employees. He hopes the Administration can learn from this policy reversal, and he is calling for a more thoughtful approach going forward.
“Mass IRS layoffs were a bad idea from the beginning,” said Congressman Suozzi. “We knew it would create chaos. That is why I’ve been cautioning a methodical, thoughtful approach. I agree that we need to cut out waste and fraud, but as I’ve said since we began the budget process, we need to use a scalpel, not a chainsaw. We need to pass a bipartisan budget and do it the right way.”
Commends India and Pakistan for Peaceful Cooperation: “A powerful symbol of unity and reconciliation”
Tom Suozzi in the Gurdwara Sahib Diwan Hall
WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): Congressman Tom Suozzi (D-NY), a member of the Congressional India Caucus and a champion of interfaith understanding, made history during a recent bipartisan Congressional delegation trip to Pakistan by becoming the first sitting Member of the United States Congress to visit the sacred Kartarpur Sahib via the Kartarpur Corridor.
The Kartarpur Corridor, a historic initiative jointly undertaken by India and Pakistan, allows Sikh pilgrims from India visa-free access to the final resting place of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism.
“Kartarpur Sahib is a powerful symbol of peace, unity, and reconciliation. In a world too often divided by conflict and mistrust, this sacred site reminds us of our shared humanity,” said Suozzi. “It’s nothing short of miraculous that two countries, often at odds, came together in mutual respect and reverence for Guru Nanak Dev Ji to open this corridor.”
Tom Suozzi in conversation with a Sikh gentleman
Suozzi’s visit to Kartarpur came during a congressional delegation to Pakistan, where he met with civil society leaders and government officials. While in Punjab, Suozzi stood at the border between India and Pakistan, reflecting on the power of connection that flows through the border divides. The corridor, opened in 2019, has become a deeply symbolic site for reconciliation and reunion.
“To see Indian and Pakistani citizens embrace across a border that for decades separated families was one of the most emotional experiences of my life,” Suozzi said. “I commend both governments for creating this humanitarian bridge.”
Kartarpur Sahib holds deep historical significance as the place where Guru Nanak Dev Ji spent the final years of his life preaching the values of compassion, equality, and unity. His message continues to inspire Sikhs and non-Sikhs alike across South Asia and around the world.
In a spur of the moment event, Suozzi met several of his own constituents from Hicksville, Syosset, and Bellerose who had traveled to Kartarpur to pay their respects.
“Whether on Long Island or in Kartarpur, our shared values transcend borders,” said Suozzi. “I will continue working to strengthen U.S. partnerships with both India and Pakistan, promote religious freedom, and support the vibrant South Asian communities that enrich New York’s 3rd Congressional District.
Tom Suozzi with a mixed crowd of Indians and Pakistanis at the Gurdwara Sahib
The TAKE IT DOWN Act and the Romance Scam Prevention Act are Bipartisan Efforts that Target Internet Con Artists Preying on Women, Children, and Seniors
WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): Congressman Tom Suozzi (D–NY) is co-leading two bipartisan bills to combat the growing scourge of online exploitation: the TAKE IT DOWN Act, actively supported by First Lady Melania Trump, and the Romance Scam Prevention Act. Together, these bills address two deeply disturbing trends—the nonconsensual spread of intimate images, including AI-generated deepfakes, and the manipulation of vulnerable individuals through online dating scams.
“The publication of sexually exploitative images – including AI-generated deepfakes – and the exploitation of online dating app users are both emblematic of the dark side of the digital age,” said Suozzi. “As Americans increasingly turn online, lawmakers on both sides of the aisle must crack down on con artists everywhere they appear. Social media companies and online applications must alert people when a fraudster targets them and punish scammers when they succeed.”
“I applaud the First Lady for bringing attention to these issues,” Suozzi continued. “The Problems Solvers Caucus will work with her across party lines to pass the TAKE IT DOWN Act to address these reprehensible acts.”
The TAKE IT DOWN Act, which Suozzi co-sponsored, is endorsed by both the entire Problem Solvers Caucus, of which Suozzi is co-chair, and Suozzi himself. The Problem Solvers Caucus is a group of 50 Members of Congress—split between Democrats and Republicans—committed to finding common ground and working together to solve the country’s most complicated problems. By endorsing this legislation, the entire Caucus has committed to voting for it when it comes to the floor.
The bill criminalizes the publication or threat to publish nonconsensual intimate imagery—whether real or AI-generated. It also requires websites to remove such content within 48 hours of notification by a victim. The legislation specifically targets the explosion of AI deepfakes used to create fake pornographic images of women and minors, many of whom are being harassed and traumatized by images they never consented to.
Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) have introduced companion legislation to the TAKE IT DOWN Act.
The Romance Scam Prevention Act, co-led by Suozzi, mandates that online dating platforms inform users when they have interacted with someone banned for fraud. This empowers potential victims with vital information before they may face financial or emotional exploitation. It also mandates that dating services provide clear warnings against sending money or financial information to other users. The Federal Trade Commission reported that “romance scams” resulted in the loss of $1.1 billion in 2023 alone.
Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and John Hickenlooper (D-CO) have introduced companion legislation to the Romance Scam Prevention Act.
Suozzi, a member of the House Ways and Means Committee and Co-Chair of the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus, has consistently pushed for legislation that defends personal dignity and to close loopholes that allow abuse. He emphasized that these measures put decency, privacy, and accountability at the forefront of modern digital life.
Both bills have garnered bipartisan support and reflect a growing consensus in Congress that the law must keep pace with technology to protect the American people.
GLEN COVE, NY (TIP): Tom Suozzi (D – Long Island, Queens) celebrated Pakistan Day (3/23) by welcoming 113-year-old Sardar Khatoon to the United States at a ceremony at Shaheen Restaurant in Hicksville.
“Yaum-E-Paksistan Mubarak!” Suozzi declared. “This is a very exciting day because we now have, in our presence, the second oldest person in the United States of America.”
Suozzi, who serves as the Co-Chair of the bipartisan Pakistan Caucus, advocated for Ms. Khatoon and her family, who struggled with the visa process for over five years. Her family had been in the United States for 35 years, with Ms. Khatoon unable to join them. In December of 2024, after facing medical issues, Ms. Khatoon’s family reached out to Suozzi’s office for assistance in expediting the process. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of Suozzi and his staff, including personal calls between Suozzi and the U.S. Ambassador to Pakistan, Ms. Khatoon’s visa was issued on March 6, 2025. She arrived at New York’s JFK Airport on March 12, happy, healthy, and greeted by her loving family. She will reside with her family in Jericho, New York.
Pakistan Day, celebrated every March 23, commemorates the adoption of the first Constitution of Pakistan in 1956 and the passage of the Lahore Resolution in 1940. Born on January 1, 1912, in Larkana Sindh, Pakistan, Ms. Khatoon is 4 years older than the Lahore Resolution and 44 years older than the Constitution.
“It’s only appropriate that on Pakistan Day, we are all here to celebrate this family, who after a long time has finally been able to come together here in America, only because of the great relationship we share between the United States and Pakistan,” Suozzi said.
During Sunday’s ceremony, Congressman Suozzi was joined by Mr. Abdul Latif, an attaché of the Pakistan Embassy to the United States, and members of the Pakistani community, including Ms. Khatoon’s family, in celebration of Pakistan Day. Suozzi presented Ms. Khatoon with a U.S. flag that was flown over the Capitol, along with a citation.
Through a translator, Ms. Khatoon said. “God Bless. I love America.”
GLEN COVE,NY (TIP): Congressman Tom Suozzi (D – Long Island, Queens) will celebrate Pakistan Day by welcoming 113-year-old Sadar Khatoon to the United States at a ceremony at Shaheen Restaurant in Hicksville. On Sunday, March 23.
Suozzi, who serves as the Co-Chair of the bipartisan Pakistan Caucus, advocated for Ms. Khatoon and her family, who struggled with the visa process for over five years. In December 2024, after facing medical issues, Ms. Khatoon’s family reached out to Suozzi’s office for assistance in expediting the process. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of Suozzi and his staff, Ms. Khatoon’s visa was issued on March 6, 2025. She arrived at New York’s JFK Airport on March 12, happy, healthy, and greeted by her loving family.
Born on January 1, 1912, in Larkana Sindh, Pakistan, Ms. Khatoon will reside with her family in Jericho, New York.
During Sunday’s ceremony, Congressman Suozzi will be joined by members of the Pakistani community in celebration of Pakistan Day, a national holiday commemorating the Lahore Resolution, passed on March 23, 1940, and the adoption of Pakistan’s first constitution. At the ceremony outside Shaheen Restaurant, Suozzi will present Ms. Khatoon with a U.S. flag that was flown over the Capitol, along with a citation.
WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): Rep. Tom Suozzi (D-NY), on Thursday, February 20, led two letters to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) and the Government Accountability Office (GAO). These letters request investigations into whether DOGE’s access to payment systems has compromised sensitive and confidential taxpayer information.
The letters also express concern that members of the DOGE team were granted access to the Treasury Department’s payment systems on January 31st, 2025, in a “read/write” capacity and “may have occasionally included screenshots of payment systems data or records” in correspondence with other DOGE employees.
Suozzi’s letter mimics the exact same language used by Republican Ways and Means Chairman Jason Smith when he wrote a similar letter on February 16th, 2023, raising the same concerns about unauthorized use of private taxpayer data. Fourteen Ways and Means members joined Suozzi’s letter as co-signers.
“A lack of transparency has resulted in widespread confusion regarding the safety of taxpayers’ sensitive private data,” the members collectively wrote. “The American people still have no idea of the extent of DOGE’s access to and use of confidential taxpayer information. This must be addressed to ensure it complies with 26 U.S.C. § 6103.”
“The American people deserve full transparency when it comes to the security of their private information,” Suozzi also said. “The fact that DOGE employees may have had unauthorized access to sensitive taxpayer data is deeply troubling. We need answers on what data was accessed, how it was used, and whether taxpayer confidentiality was compromised.”
GLEN COVE, NY (TIP): Congressman Tom Suozzi (D-Long Island, Queens) recognized and honored high school students from New York’s Third Congressional District for their achievements in life science, computer science, and mathematics in the Regeneron Science Talent Search and the Congressional App Challenge.
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory hosted the ceremony, during which Suozzi was introduced by Dr. Bruce Stillman, President and CEO.
“Amidst what seems like only negative news, the good news shines brightly. Despite representing just 0.2% of the U.S. population, New York’s Third Congressional District boasts 8.3% of the Regeneron Science Talent Search Scholars,” said Suozzi. “The Third Congressional District has consistently produced the brightest young talent the nation has to offer. This achievement is a testament to these students’ hard work and dedication and the exceptional high schools they attend. These students represent the future of our community and our country, and I am proud to honor their remarkable accomplishments.”
Of the 300 high school seniors from across the country who advanced in the first round of the annual Regeneron Science Talent Search, 49 are from Long Island, and a very impressive 25 are from the 3rd Congressional District.
Two students, Emma Wen of Great Neck North High School and Sandeep Sawhney of Herricks High School, have advanced and have been named finalists in the competition. They are among the 40 finalists nationwide who will compete in March for the more than $1.8 million in awards provided by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals of Tarrytown, NY.
The students honored by Congressman Suozzi represent twelve high schools in the 3rd Congressional District: Cold Spring Harbor High School, Great Neck North High School, Great Neck South High School, Herricks High School, Jericho High School, Manhasset High School, Mineola High School, North Shore High School, Plainview-Old Bethpage High School, Paul D. Schreiber High School, Syosset High School, and The Wheatley School.
Suozzi also recognized the winner and runner-up of the Congressional App Challenge, an annual competition sponsored by the U.S. House of Representatives in which high school students use a programming language to create an application for a PC, web, tablet, mobile device, or other device.
First place was awarded to Aditya Varma of Syosset High School. Aditya’s app, “Rent Your Driveway,” is a game-changer for drivers and homeowners alike. It makes it easier to find private driveway parking near essential locations like schools, hospitals, and train stations. It’s a practical solution that efficiently addresses a common problem.
Stephanie Sze of Manhasset High School was the runner-up. Stephanie’s “College Buddy” app streamlines the college search process, helping high school students discover the best options based on their unique interests. By empowering students to make informed decisions about their future, “College Buddy” plays a crucial role in shaping their educational journey.
Suozzi’s office received applications from 28 students representing 11 high schools in New York’s Third Congressional District, the largest number in the seven years that Suozzi has sponsored the Congressional App Challenge.
WASHINGTON, D.C. (TP): Congressman Tom Suozzi (D – Long Island, Queens) released the following statement regarding the ceasefire-hostage deal between Israel and Hamas:
“Today’s news of a six-week ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas is bittersweet. While I am overjoyed about the potential release of some hostages, I am heartbroken that my constituent Omer Neutra, and so many others, will not return home alive. The Neutra family’s advocacy helped make this deal possible. May his memory continue to be a blessing.
I applaud President Biden, President-elect Trump, and their teams for working together to finally get a deal done to release hostages from Gaza. Their collaboration put politics aside to save precious lives.
I will continue to advocate for the return of all hostages, and to ensure Gaza is no longer ruled by a terrorist group. Am Yisrael Chai!”
WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): In 2007, then-Nassau County Executive Tom Suozzi barred federal immigration agents from the county after their raids seeking gang members here illegally — conducted without local police — also barged into homes of innocent U.S. citizens.
As President-elect Donald Trump calls for mass deportations of criminals without legal U.S. immigration status, now-U. S. Rep. Suozzi (D-Glen Cove) has offered support for those raids — but also advice.
“It’s really important that this is coordinated at the local level,” Suozzi told Newsday. “I think that corrections, jails, maybe even probation and parole should play a very heavy role in coordinating with the federal government.”
Just days before Trump’s Jan. 20 inauguration, many Democrats last week backed a Republican bill that would expand the required deportation of people living in the country illegally who are accused of lesser theft crimes like shoplifting, and would give states the right to sue the Homeland Security secretary for immigration enforcement failures.
WHAT NEWSDAY FOUND
Over the past year, Democrats have backed tougher border and immigration policies promoted by U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi of Glen Cove, who won a special election in February after talking about the need for a secure border.
Just days before President-elect Donald Trump’s Jan. 20 inauguration, many Democrats last week backed a Republican bill that would expand the required deportation of migrants accused of lesser theft crimes like shoplifting. Trump has said that after his inauguration he will declare a national emergency and issue executive orders to shut down the border and begin deportations.
Suozzi and first-term Rep. Laura Gillen (D-Rockville Centre) joined 46 other House Democrats — as well as Long Island Republican Reps. Andrew Garbarino of Bayport and Nick LaLota of Amityville — in voting for the Laken Riley Act, and 32 Senate Democrats voted with Republicans to take that bill up for debate.
‘Get the criminals out’
Trump has said that after his inauguration he will declare a national emergency and issue executive orders to shut down the border and begin deportations. At a rally at Madison Square Garden in the closing days of the presidential race, he declared, “On Day One, I will launch the largest deportation program in American history to get the criminals out.”
But he has not said exactly what those orders will entail, other than an initial focus on public safety and national security threats. Republicans successfully made a crackdown on the flow of noncitizens across the border a winning political issue for Trump and Republicans in Congress. Garbarino and LaLota, like most Republicans, declined to discuss Trump’s deportation plans.
Suozzi and Gillen both told Newsday last month that they back efforts to remove criminal noncitizens, but have concerns about how it will happen.
Over the past year, Democrats have backed tougher border and immigration policies promoted by Suozzi, who won a special election in February after talking about the need for a secure border and tough immigration enforcement while treating migrants humanely.
“Democrats have consistently supported robust border security and the enforcement of our laws — including immigration enforcement,” said Debu Gandhi, senior director at the Center for American Progress Action Fund, a Democratic-linked advocacy group.
“We keep on hearing over and over again that their focus is going to be on deporting criminals first, right?” Suozzi said. “And I’m 100% supportive of that, OK? And I will work with the administration to accomplish that and to work on keeping our community safe.”
Need for training
But Suozzi’s experience with federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids nearly two decades ago shapes his advice to the incoming Trump administration.
“I’ve been in government long enough to know that government doesn’t always do things well. Sometimes they make mistakes,” Suozzi told Newsday recently in an interview. “If untrained federal officials come knock down the door of a house where a criminal used to live and now a family that has nothing to do with criminality is living there, well, that’s going to hurt their reputation tremendously,” he said.
He urged proper training of new immigration agents and close coordination between them and local law enforcement to make sure that the deportation raids hit the right targets.
Gillen also said she supports tougher enforcement.
“We need to reform our immigration system. We need to reform our asylum system. We need to secure our border,” Gillen said. “We need to make sure that people who come here illegally and commit crimes are not permitted to stay here.”
But she said she also is concerned about her constituents who are here on temporary protected status, known as TPS — many of them Haitians, whose TPS status ends in 2026.
“We have a large Haitian community in my district,” she said. “The situation in Haiti is extraordinarily dangerous and violent. And I want to make sure that the people who have come here lawfully are able to stay here.”
Dr. Dipak Nandi, MD, is a testament to the power of dedication, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in healthcare. Born with a passion for improving lives, Dr. Nandi’s journey began at the prestigious All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi, India from where he graduated in 1981. Renowned globally for its rigorous training and academic excellence, AIIMS provided Dr. Nandi with the strong foundation he needed to embark on his extraordinary career. Armed with a vision to make significant contributions to the healthcare sector, he moved to the United States, where he began redefining the boundaries of neuropsychiatry and healthcare management.
Clinical Excellence
Over the past four decades, Dr. Nandi has established himself as one of New York’s leading neuropsychiatrists. His clinical practice is marked by a deep commitment to patient care and an exceptional ability to diagnose and treat complex neurological and psychiatric disorders. Patients and colleagues alike admire his compassionate approach and innovative treatment methodologies. Dr. Nandi’s expertise is underscored by his board certification and status as a diplomat of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. This unwavering dedication to his field has cemented his reputation as a trusted and respected figure in neuropsychiatry.
Entrepreneurial Ventures
While Dr. Nandi’s clinical achievements are remarkable, his entrepreneurial spirit sets him apart. He has been a pivotal figure in the healthcare outsourcing industry, leveraging sophisticated IT-enabled services to streamline critical processes like insurance claims, telemedicine, and revenue cycle management. Through his innovative mindset, Dr. Nandi has improved operational efficiencies for healthcare providers, allowing them to focus on delivering exceptional patient care rather than navigating administrative complexities.
Dr. and Mrs. Nandi with India’s Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.
Dr. Nandi’s ventures have set new benchmarks in healthcare outsourcing, particularly through the adoption of advanced IT solutions. By optimizing revenue-related processes and enhancing telemedicine services, he has significantly improved the financial stability of healthcare practices while ensuring timely and effective care for patients. His entrepreneurial efforts have earned him several prestigious awards, recognizing his ability to seamlessly blend medical expertise with business acumen. These accomplishments have not only contributed to the sustainability of healthcare providers but have also enhanced patient outcomes across the board.
Contributions to Society
Dr. Nandi’s impact extends far beyond his clinical and entrepreneurial achievements. As a member of the United States India Business Council (USIBC) and the Board of Directors for the Nargis Dutt Memorial Foundation, he has played a crucial role in fostering international collaboration and supporting oncology treatment in the Indian subcontinent. His philanthropic efforts reflect his unwavering commitment to addressing healthcare disparities and giving back to society. Through his work with the Nargis Dutt Memorial Foundation, Dr. Nandi has been instrumental in providing critical resources for cancer treatment and research, benefiting countless individuals and families.
Dr. Nandi interacts with Senator Chuck Schumer
Dr. Nandi’s contributions also include his active involvement in celebrating cultural values and festivals such as Diwali. Working alongside Jennifer Rajkumar, he has championed efforts to highlight the importance of this festival in promoting cultural unity and awareness within the broader community. His endeavors emphasize the intersection of culture and healthcare, demonstrating his dedication to fostering inclusivity and shared understanding.
A Legacy of Innovation and Dedication
Dr. Dipak Nandi’s most notable attribute is his unwavering focus on innovation. Throughout his career, he has been dedicated to finding groundbreaking solutions that redefine the healthcare landscape. Whether through the adoption of cutting-edge technologies or the development of more efficient workflows, Dr. Nandi has consistently driven positive change in the industry. His ability to navigate the complexities of the healthcare system with vision and purpose makes him a true pioneer.
In a world where the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, Dr. Nandi’s work stands as a beacon of hope and progress. His relentless pursuit of excellence, coupled with his commitment to societal betterment, inspires those around him to strive for greater heights. By streamlining critical processes and advocating for innovative approaches, Dr. Nandi has not only transformed the operations of healthcare providers but has also improved the quality of care delivered to patients.
Awards and Recognitions
Dr. Nandi receiving the Distinguished Physician Award from AAPI-QLI L to R: Mrs. Mehra, Congressman Tom Suozzi, Mrs. Nandi, Dr. Dipak Nandi, Raj Bhayani, Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar, New York State Senator John Liu, Dr. Tarun Wasil, Dr. Inderpal Chhabra, Dr. Tajender Jinna.
Dr. Dipak Nandi, a distinguished neuropsychiatrist and entrepreneur, has been honored with several prestigious awards recognizing his significant contributions to healthcare and his leadership within the Indian-origin physician community in the United States.
Distinguished Physician Award by the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI): This accolade honors Dr. Nandi’s exceptional contributions to healthcare and his role as a trailblazer for physicians of Indian origin in the U.S
Highlight of the Evening Awardee: Celebrated alongside Ms. Kalpana Patel, Ms. Anuradha Kumar, and Dr. Jyoti Chakote, Dr. Nandi was recognized for outstanding contributions to medicine, business, and community service, serving as an inspiration to the community and more
These accolades underscore Dr. Nandi’s unwavering dedication to excellence, innovation, and service.
Inspiration and Vision
The family jubilates Dr. Nadi’s honor
(Photo D 5 here)
Dr. Nandi’s story is one of perseverance, vision, and a heartfelt desire to improve lives. His ability to bridge the gap between clinical practice and entrepreneurial innovation serves as an inspiration to healthcare professionals worldwide. He actively participates in mentoring programs, sharing his insights and experiences with aspiring doctors and medical students. His vision is to create a healthcare ecosystem that seamlessly integrates technology, compassion, and efficiency to deliver optimal patient outcomes.
The Nadi family
Dr. Dipak Nandi’s journey from a promising medical student in New Delhi to a revered neuropsychiatrist and entrepreneur in the United States is a testament to what can be achieved through dedication and innovation. His relentless pursuit of excellence has not only transformed the way healthcare providers operate but has also enhanced the quality of care received by patients. As a physician, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, Dr. Nandi exemplifies the power of vision and commitment in making a lasting impact on society. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and influence future generations of healthcare professionals and leaders.
WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): This week, the House of Representatives passed three bipartisan pieces of Congressman Tom Suozzi’s (D – Long Island, Queens) legislation. These three commonsense bills, the Securing Our Northern Borders Act, the SHIELD Against CCP Act, and the Increasing Baseline Updates Act, were passed in resoundingly bipartisan fashion. These bills will, respectively, address the security of our Northern Border, counter threats to homeland security posed by the Chinese Communist Party, and promote fiscal responsibility. “This week, we passed three of my bipartisan commonsense bills. When Republicans and Democrats come together, we can deliver real results for the American people. This spirit is precisely what America needs right now,” Suozzi said.
The Securing Our Northern Borders Act, co-led by Congresswomen Claudia Tenney (R-NY), was included and passed as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for 2025. This bill will establish a Department of Homeland Security Northern Border “Mission Center,” which would coordinate the implementation of the DHS Northern Border Strategy.
“We must secure both the Northern and Southern Border Strategies to protect our communities,” said Suozzi. “This Mission Center would serve as the central hub for coordinating efforts to enforce immigration laws and combat illegal drug trafficking along our northern border. We need to secure our borders, reform the outdated asylum system that hasn’t been updated since the 1980s, and modernize the legal immigration process, all while ensuring that we treat people with dignity and respect.”
The SHIELD Against CCP Act, co-led by Congressman Dale Strong (R-AL), would establish a Department of Homeland Security working group to identify, evaluate, and counter threats to homeland security posed by the Chinese Communist Party.
“The Chinese Communist Party is intent on promoting authoritarianism by weakening America from within,” Suozzi said. “Add to this theft of our intellectual property, threats to our critical infrastructure, and trying to intimidate US citizens through transnational repression. We must act.”
Suozzi’s third bill passed this week, the Increasing Baseline Updates Act, was co-led by Congressman Blake Moore (R-UT). This legislation would require the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) to provide two annual updates to its baseline, and mandate that the President submit specific budget data to Congress to allow for accurate policymaking and oversight.
“I was trained as a CPA; I am concerned about our budget and deficits. I know the importance of accuracy in budget estimates. If Congress and the public can get better data, we will be in a better position to fix our budgets.” Suozzi explained. “This bill will help tighten congressional procedures and result in more fiscally responsible policies.”
“While these bills may not be glamorous or generate major headlines, their passage this week by the House of Representatives proves that when Republicans and Democrats unite, they can deliver real results for the American people. This is the cooperative spirit that Washington urgently needs,” Suozzi concluded.
Recognizes Excellence: Dr. Loui Kavoussi,Dr. Krishna Gujarvarti, Dr. Dipak Nandi, Dr. Sunil Mehra honored
MELVILLE, NY (TIP): The American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin of Queens and Long Island (AAPIQLI) concluded another remarkable year, celebrating its members’ contributions to medicine and the community at its 28thannual convention. Representing 1,000 physicians, AAPIQLI serves as a hub for professional networking, academic excellence, and cultural preservation.
Dr. Raj Bhayani, Chairman of Board of Trust congratulated Dr. Inderpal Chhabra and his team for the leaps forward with the 2024 Gala.
The event was attended by close to 500 guests, including several prominent special guests: Representative Tom Suozzi, State Senator John Liu, and Assemblywoman Jennifer Rajkumar. In their addresses, these dignitaries praised the Indian physician community for their unwavering commitment and dedication to improving the health and well-being of New Yorkers.
A highlight of the evening was the announcement of special endowment funds sponsored by the Bagla family and the Katyal family, totaling over $200,000. These generous contributions will support AAPIQLI’s initiatives to foster academic excellence, community engagement, and professional development among its members.
Congressman Tom Suozzi has for long been a darling of the Indian American Community. If the community has showered its love on him and ensured his victory as a Congressman, the Congressman has ensured to participate in as many community events as possible.
A Year of Achievements
In 2024, AAPIQLI hosted many events that enriched the professional lives of its members while fostering camaraderie within the Indian American Physician community. Among the highlights:
• Monthly Educational Meetings: These sessions provided a platform for discussing advancements in medical fields such as Oncology, Orthopedics, and Diabetes care.
Dr. Loui Kavoussi, a Urologist at the forefront of innovation, holds his award.
• Cultural Celebrations: Vibrant Holi and Baisakhi festivals br
ought families together, while the Diwali/Bandi Chhor Diwas celebration featured memorable performances, delicious cuisine, and community honors.
• Research Day: The annual event highlighted groundbreaking research by young scientists, reflecting the community’s commitment to innovation in medicine.
Recognizing Excellence
During the Diwali celebration, AAPIQLI honored exemplary leaders for their contributions: • Dr. Loui Kavoussi – Urologist at the forefront of innovation. • Dr. Krishna Gujavarti– Behavioral health expert and philanthropist. • Dr. Dipak Nandi – Neuro-psychiatrist and entrepreneur in healthcare management. • Dr. Sunil Mehra– Renowned pulmonologist and community leader.
Dr. Dipak Nandi, Neuro-psychiatrist and entrepreneur in healthcare management receiving his award. Seen in the picture, among others, from L to R: Congressman Tom Suozzi(second from the left) Mrs. Nandi, Dr. Dipak Nandi, Dr. Raj Bhayani, NY State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar, State Senator John Liu, Dr.Tarun Wasil, AAPI President, Dr. Devendra Shrivastava.Renowned pulmonologist and community leader Dr. Sunil Mehra is honored. L to R: Dr. Sunil Mehra, Dr. Dalbir Chhabra, New York State Senator John Liu and Dr. Inderpal Chhabra, President AAPI-QLI.
Dr. Krishna R.S. Gujarvarty is being honored. L to R: Dr. Devendra Shrivastava, President-Elect, AAPI-QLI, Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar, Congressman Tom Suozzi, Dr. Tarun Wasil, Dr. Smita Lodha, Mrs. Gujarvarty, Dr. Krishna R.S. Gujarvarty, Dr. Raj Bhayani, New York State Senator John Liu, Dr. Inderpal Chhabra, Gagan Gulai, Convention Co-chair (partially visible)Vision for the Future
AAPIQLI President Dr. Inderpal Chhabra outlined a forward-looking vision focused on academic excellence, supporting young professionals, and building a thriving community. “We aim to create opportunities for learning and growth that inspire the next generation of Indian American physicians,” said Dr. Chhabra.
Acknowledgments
Dr. Chhabra expressed gratitude to the organization’s trustees, committee members, and volunteers for their tireless efforts. Special thanks were extended to Dr. Raj Bhayani for his leadership and to Dr. Dalbir Chhabra for her unwavering support.
About AAPIQLI
AAPIQLI is dedicated to supporting physicians of Indian origin through networking, education, and cultural engagement. The organization aims to foster professional excellence and strengthen bonds within the community.For more information, please contact:
For more information, please contact: Inderpal Chhabra MD FACP
President
GLEN COVE, NY (TIP): U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi was re-elected to New York’s 3rd Congressional District Tuesday, November 5 night, defeating Republican challenger Mike LiPetri by 2.5% in the face of a red wave led by Donald Trump across the country, who won Nassau County by nearly 5 percentage points.
National attention was drawn to Long Island as its congressional races were determined to be key in deciding which party would assume control over the House of Representatives. This included New York District 3.
In Nassau County, both Democratic candidates – Suozzi and 4th District candidate Laura Gillen – were elected to the House. “We’re pretty confident at the margins that we have, that we have elected two Democrats for the Congress,” New York State Democratic Party Chairman Jay Jacobs said.
Suozzi secured his win in a sweep of all three counties the congressional district encompasses, according to state Board of Elections data with all districts reported. In Nassau County, Suozzi received 129,130 votes, 47.71%, while LiPetri got 127,719 votes, 47.19%.
In Queens, Suozzi received 35,461 votes, 51.82%, and LiPetri got 29,893 votes, 43.69%.
In Suffolk County, Suozzi received 12,597 votes, 52.15 , and LiPetri received 10,553 votes, 43.69%.
Overall, Suozzi received 177,188 votes while LiPetri fell behind with 168,165.
“The people sent a clear message that they are sick of the partisanship, they are sick of extremism,” Suozzi said in a press release following his victory. “They want us to work together to solve tough problems like securing the border and reinstating the SALT deduction. I am grateful the voters in Nassau, Suffolk, and Queens are sending me back to Congress so I can continue to fight for bipartisan common sense solutions to help make people’s lives better.”
This race follows the special election held for the seat in February to fill the vacancy left by former Republican Rep. George Santos, who was expelled from Congress after evidence suggested he had violated federal laws. He has since pleaded guilty to two counts of wire fraud and identity theft in August and awaits sentencing.
Suozzi ran in the special election against Republican Nassau County District 10 Legislator Mazi Pilip.
Suozzi previously served as the District 3 representative from 2017-2023. He opted not to run for re-election in 2022 and instead made a gubernatorial bid but lost in the primaries to now Gov. Kathy Hochul.
His top issues in the race were immigration and public safety, restoring SALT, defeating terror and bridging the partisan divide.
“I think that we all recognize that the people in the United States of America and the people in my congressional district are sick and tired of the extremism,” Suozzi said. “They’re sick and tired of attacking each other all the time. They want us to work together and get things done.”
LiPetri is an attorney and former state Assembly member who served from 2019-2021 as the 9th District representative. LiPetri campaigned on the top three issues of affordability, securing the border and reducing crime in the 3rd District.
The 3rd Congressional District ranges from parts of northeast Queens across the North Shore, Mineola, Westbury and parts of Floral Park to the south, Farmingdale and Hicksville to the east in Nassau County and Lloyd Harbor and Huntington Bay in Suffolk County.
GLEN COVE, NY (TIP): In the seven months since Congressman Tom Suozzi (D-Nassau, Queens) won the February special election to regain his 3rd Congressional district seat, his two district offices in Queens and Nassau have delivered record-breaking constituent services.
In the first 200 days, Suozzi staff have assisted nearly 1,000 families with casework, resulting in a constituent savings windfall savings of $1,470,702.
“I have always tried to be an ‘ombudsman’ representative, representing the interests of my constituents and maintaining a quality office staff tasked with advocating for constituents faced with administrative difficulties, especially those caused by federal agencies,” explained Suozzi.
Suozzi has two office locations at 51 Glen Street in Glen Cove and another at 242-09 Northern Boulevard in Douglaston, Queens. “If you can’t get an answer from a federal agency in a timely fashion, or if you feel you have been treated unfairly, our office may be able to help resolve a problem or get you the information you need,” Suozzi said.
Suozzi constituent caseworkers provide assistance to residents with a wide range of federal issues.
Issues with Social Security applications, checks, and benefits are common. There are also problems with Medicare, passports, small business loans, and other federal loan programs. The office also helps with grant applications and gets constituents access to Capitol tours and tickets.
Suozzi maintains a specific staff member to work with veterans on any issues they may have. Suozzi also assists young men and women seeking to apply to military academies.
“We never forget the Vet in our offices,” boasted Suozzi.
The office can also send constituents congressional commendations or presidential greetings, help people purchase flags flown over the Capitol, and help college students and recent graduates secure summer, fall, and spring semester internships.
Some recent successful casework stories include working with the State Department to get a Glen Head family’s young son from Azerbaijan to America for a life-saving heart operation and helping a disabled Hicksville retired police officer with his overdue $27,000 income tax refund.
A 93-year-old Bethpage woman needed help with her SSI Social Security payments, and a Port Washington woman who had lost her passwords was unable to log in to her own financial accounts.
An 85-year-old Whitestone man needed replacement naturalization papers after his home was destroyed by fire in November 2021. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) had replaced the papers but sent them to the wrong address, and office staff helped to get the paperwork to the correct address.
Oyster Bay town officials wanted to purchase some USPS excess property to provide access to nearby youth athletic fields and sought a meeting to facilitate the transaction. The Post Office bureaucrats in Washington balked, and Suozzi’s office set the wheels in motion by scheduling a Zoom meeting.
Another highlight of constituent response was when a Nassau County family received a posthumous Purple Heart in Sea Cliff this past Memorial Day for their late Navy veteran relative.
“Helping Queens and Long Island families is one of my priorities in Congress,” concluded Suozzi.
WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): Congressman Tom Suozzi’s (D – Nassau, Queens) bipartisan legislation passed unanimously in the Budget Committee. The “Increasing Baseline Updates Act” – Co-led by Republican Blake Moore (R-UT) – would require the Congressional Budget Office and The President to provide more annual updates to budget productions and technical data to Congress. The bill, H.R. 9716, would finally amend the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974. “This is another in a series of bipartisan, common-sense bills I have sponsored during the session. Today in the Budget Committee, we demonstrated that, by working together, Republicans and Democrats can still get results,” Suozzi said.
“I was trained as a CPA; I am concerned about our budget and deficits. I know the importance of accuracy in budget estimates. If Congress and the public can get better data, we will be in a better position to fix our budgets.” Suozzi explained. “The latest CBO baseline anticipated that taxpayers will accumulate more than $22 trillion in deficit spending over the next ten years. If we are going to tackle our nation’s debt, we have to get serious about knowing where our problems are and what we can do to fix it.”
CBO’s baseline is a set of detailed projections of federal spending, revenues, deficits or surpluses, and debt for the current year and the following decade. Those projections inform policymakers about budgetary trends and the nation’s fiscal condition under current law. “The bill will enhance CBO’s objectivity, and frequent updates will ensure that CBO’s budget and economic outlooks are without bias,” Suozzi explained.
CBO typically aims to release at least two baselines a year. Delays in the appropriations process can cause CBO to miss its target of three baselines. The Budget Committee strongly supports releasing three baselines in order to complete its own budget enforcement and oversight responsibilities. Baseline projections supply the Congress with information about the budgetary outlook over the coming decade under current laws and a benchmark to use in determining whether proposed legislation is subject to various budget enforcement procedures.
“This bill will help tighten congressional procedures and result in a more fiscally responsible policy,” Suozzi concluded.
WASHINGTON, DC (TIP): Congressman Tom Suozzi (D – Nassau, Queens), on September 18, released a statement in response to a social media post from the former president where he reverses his position on the cap on State and Local Taxes (SALT):
“I am happy that the former president is saying that he has finally reversed his devastating decision in 2017 to cap the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction. It has been a body blow to my constituents for the past 7 years. If he is truly serious he should urge 100 Republicans in the House and 25 in the Senate to join me to restore the full SALT deduction now!!”
WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): Congressman Tom Suozzi (D – Long Island, Queens) introduced a bipartisan resolution recognizing the importance of the U.S.-India relations ahead of the 50th anniversary of the first BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Hindu temple in the United States on August 4, 2024.
“Introducing legislation to commemorate the 50th anniversary of BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in the United States is an honor. This legislation not only acknowledges the historic milestone of the Mandir but also celebrates the invaluable contributions made by BAPS and its volunteers to our community over the past 50 years,” stated Suozzi. “Additionally, the legislation underscores the shared values of freedom, democracy, the rule of law, and religious pluralism between the U.S. and India while celebrating the enduring friendship between our two nations.”
Congressman Suozzi, a long-time friend and supporter of the Indian American community, proudly represents New York’s 3rd Congressional District. The district, which extends from northeast Queens to Nassau County, including Hicksville, one of the most heavily concentrated populations of Indian residents on Long Island, is home to a large, active, and diverse community with roots in South Asia.
The bipartisan resolution, H.Res. 1394, “Celebrating the principles of democracy, religious pluralism, human rights, and the rule of law shared by both the United States and India, the strong people-to-people ties between the United States and India, and the success of the Indian diaspora in the United States,” currently has 37 co-sponsors. This resolution also celebrates the religious pluralism of India, and the prosperity of the Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Buddhist, Christian, and Jain communities.
“India is the world’s most populous democracy in the world and an important strategic partner of the United States,” said Congresswoman Young Kim (R-CA), lead co-sponsor of the resolution and Chairwoman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Indo-Pacific. “I celebrate 50 years of our vibrant BAPS community in Chino Hills and across Southern California and am so proud to represent more than 10,000 Indian Americans who are making our community a better place. I will do my part on the Foreign Affairs Committee to foster U.S.-India relations and advance our shared principles, which are more important than ever as we see rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific.”
The resolution also commemorates the first BAPS mandir in North America, built by the Pramukh Swami Maharaj on Flushing’s historic Bowne Street in 1974. Since then, six traditional stone Hindu mandirs and 108 Hari Mandirs have been built in the United States and Canada, including the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Melville, NY.
“As a volunteer with BAPS for over 40 years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the incredible impact our community has had across the nation. The resolution introduced in the House recognizing our 50-year journey in North America is not just an honor for our organization but a testament to the dedication and hard work of our Gurus —Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Mahant Swami Maharaj — as well as every volunteer and well-wisher. We are grateful for this recognition that reaffirms our commitment to preserving our cultural heritage and serving society,” said Girish Patel, Lead Community Outreach Volunteer, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Melville, NY.
H.Res. 1394 promotes U.S.-India relations by:
Recognizing the importance of the United States-India strategic bilateral relationship;
Celebrating the people-to-people bonds of friendship between India and the United States;
Affirming the commitment to freedom, democracy, the rule of law, and religious pluralism shared by the United States and India; and
Recognizing and celebrating the countless contributions of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha and its volunteers over the last 50 years in the United States.
Will introduce legislation to fix the broken immigration and border system
WASHINGTON, DC (TIP): Congressman Tom Suozzi (D – Long Island, Queens) is seeking to build a bipartisan, broad-based coalition to bring ‘order to the border’ and reform America’s antiquated, broken immigration system.
Suozzi says he is also determined to bring together a new alliance –“business, the bible, and badges”– in a collective effort to lobby Congress and force it to do its job.
He explained this unique partnership by saying:
“Business has a huge stake in immigration reform. Companies, farmers, hospitals, and manufacturers need a long-term immigration fix to better plan the future of our nation’s economic health. Immigrant workers have become an essential part of the U.S. workforce, contributing across sectors and playing a noteworthy role in our country’s economy.”
“By using the word ‘bible,’ I refer to those basic values, both religious and secular, that Americans have embraced –that all men and women are created equal and are entitled to human respect and dignity. Spiritual and secular leaders of all kinds can join hands to practice what they preach: the golden rule, human dignity, and the worth of all people.
And ‘badges’ represent our country’s law enforcement community who need new, innovative technology, cutting-edge tools, and “order at the border” to better protect our borders and communities.”
“The U.S. faces an immigration crisis because too many politicians have spent too many years ‘weaponizing’ immigration policy-fighting across the aisle- but haven’t done a thing to fix it,” declared Suozzi.
“My goal is to introduce bipartisan legislation this summer that will 1) secure the border, 2) fix the broken and outdated asylum system, and 3) treat people like human beings,” he announced.
Suozzi has visited the southern border three times, meeting with border patrol agents, local law enforcement officials, mayors, businesses, and nonprofits. “It’s not working,” Suozzi says.
“The present immigration system is hopelessly outdated. The original asylum process was created during the ‘cold war.’ The United States Refugee Act of 1980 when America was happy to provide a safe haven to ‘individuals fleeing persecution in the Soviet Union, Cuba, and other communist and authoritarian regimes,’” Suozzi explained.
As Co-Chair of the newly formed Democrats for Border Security Task Force, Suozzi faces a daunting challenge: To find common ground with Democrats and Republicans in a bitterly divided, election year congress.
“Democrats and Republicans in Washington must work together to pass bipartisan immigration reform legislation to firmly secure our borders and establish clear, legal paths,” he asserted.
Suozzi said he was disappointed when a bipartisan Senate deal struck last February between Senators James Lankford (R-OK), Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ), and Chris Murphy (D-CT) was torpedoed by former President Donald Trump. “You’ve got to keep on working. There’s an old expression: ‘Don’t mourn—organize,’” Suozzi rallied. “It’s hard. Getting this done is hard work, but I have made this my number one priority. I am going to build this coalition,” he added.
In May, when Suozzi realized that Congress was not going to pass the Senate’s bipartisan legislation, he worked with Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) to call on President Biden to take executive action.
In June, Suozzi welcomed the President’s executive orders on bringing “order to the border” and work permits for undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens, many of whom have lived in America for their whole lives. “Now Congress must, after 30 years, finally act!” Suozzi said.
