Israeli military veteran emerges as GOP Contender: Set to fill George Santos’ shoes

Mazi Pilip, a Nassau County lawmaker and former Israeli soldier | Credits: Facebook
Mazi Pilip, a Nassau County lawmaker and former Israeli soldier | Credits: Facebook

United States: Republicans have chosen a little-known county lawmaker who formerly served in the Israeli military – Mazi Melesa Pilip, as their candidate to replace disgraced congressman George Santos in a special election, according to party leaders, reports by the Associated Press noted.

Mazi Pilip, a Nassau County lawmaker and former Israeli soldier, will face Democratic former congressman Tom Suozzi in a special election for the district, which spans northern Queens and Long Island, on February 13.

Philip, a relatively unknown municipal representative from Ethiopia, is up against a political veteran in Suozzi, who previously represented the seat for six (6) years during a lengthy political career on Long Island.

Republicans in Queens and Nassau County issued a statement detailing some of her probable policy stances and stating that she would offer a fresh perspective to the House.

“Philip is an effective tax fighter who will prioritize public safety, economic recovery, border security, and tax relief in Congress,” the statement read. “She will bring a fresh new perspective to Washington, starkly contrasting her from the candidate for the other major political party,” it added. 

U.S. Rep. George Santos, R-N.Y. | Credits: AP Photos

On Friday, the party will organize a formal announcement ceremony for Philip. Following Santos’ removal from Congress earlier this month, Republicans vetted a few possible candidates before selecting Philip.