New York Republicans tabbed Nassau County Legislator Mazi Melesa Pilip to run for the state’s 3rd Congressional District following the ouster of former Rep. George Santos (R-NY).
Pilip is an Ethiopian-born Israeli-American who served in the Israel Defense Force’s Paratroopers Brigade.
She immigrated to Israel from Ethiopia when she was 12 years old.
“Pilip seemed to confirm news reports that she would be the GOP’s candidate after a behind-the-scenes vetting process that came with some surprises, like the fact that Pilip is a registered Democrat,” City & State New York reports.
“She has also been a registered Democrat since 2012 but ran for the Nassau County Legislature on the Republican ballot line,” Wikipedia noted.
New York’s 3rd Congressional District will be decided in a February 13th special election between Pilip and former Democrat Rep. Tom Suozzi.
“Mazi Melesa Pilip stands out as a truly exceptional candidate and will make the hardworking families of New York’s 3rd district proud. Mazi is a shining example of the American Dream, and her extraordinary story reflects just that. As a paratrooper, mom, and local elected official, Mazi knows how to lead,” Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) said.
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Mazi Melesa Pilip stands out as