Long Beach, NY – Voters in long Beach, New York, are facing a uniquely somber choice in the upcoming local election: whether to vote for a candidate who has been missing for months. Petros Krommidas, the Democratic nominee for Nassau County Legislator in the 6th district, disappeared in June, yet remains on the ballot alongside republican candidate Chris Mullaney.
the unusual situation has sparked debate among residents, who are grappling wiht the ethics of voting for a candidate whose whereabouts are unknown. While Krommidas’s family has declined to comment publicly, they have privately encouraged supporters to honor his memory by voting for him, highlighting his dedication to the community. The outcome of the election could hinge on voters weighing thier political preferences against the reality of a candidate who may never be found.
Joseph Cairo Jr., chairman of the Nassau county Democratic Party, stated the party and its candidates will “show the highest level of sensitivity during these challenging times for the Krommidas family.”
In the days following his disappearance, family and friends joined first responders in a search of Long Beach’s shoreline, located east of Queens. Missing person flyers bearing Krommidas’s image remain posted around the city,though many are faded and torn. Meanwhile, campaign signs for Mullaney are prominently displayed throughout the district. Mullaney has not responded to requests for comment.
Residents expressed a range of reactions to the situation. Maude Carione, a 72-year-old Trump supporter, called it “insane” to leave Krommidas’s name on the ballot, suggesting the Democratic party should offer another candidate. “In fairness, you have to give another candidate a chance for the Democrats. You have to,” she said.
Regina Pecorella, a 54-year-old independent voter, stated her decision was clear. “If it’s between those two, I’m voting for the person that’s alive,” she said. “I don’t know how else to answer that.”
Krommidas’s mother, Maria, wrote on Facebook that her son “cared deeply about people and his community and continues to inspire kindness and unity in our community.” His sister, Eleni-Lemonia Krommidas, described him as a first-generation American who “believed in equality, education, and the power of unity.”
