Several Greek-American politicians have been re-elected or elected for the first time to the U.S. House of Representatives in Tuesday’s electoral process. Six Greek-American candidates secured seats, three of whom were re-elected, while three others achieved their first congressional wins.
From the Republican party, Nicole Malliotakis, a prominent figure in New York politics, won her third term, capturing 64.7% of the vote with 96% of ballots counted in New York’s 11th District.
In Florida’s 12th District, incumbent Republican Gus Bilirakis retained his seat, obtaining 71.1% of the vote with nearly all precincts reporting.
In New Hampshire, Democratic Representative Chris Pappas was re-elected in the 1st District, garnering 54.4% of the vote with 90% of votes counted.
Democrat Maggie Goodlander, wife of National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, won a seat for the first time in New Hampshire’s 2nd District. Of Greek descent from Grevena, Goodlander captured 53.3% of the vote with 92% reporting.
Republican newcomer Mike Haridopolos won Florida’s 8th District with 62.3% of the vote. Haridopolos, 54, is set for his first term in Congress.
Meanwhile, in Nevada, Democratic Representative Dina Titus secured her 8th term in the 1st District, leading with 51.1% over her Republican challenger with 87% of votes tallied.
However, not all Greek-American candidates won. In New York’s 1st District, CNN analyst and Democratic candidate John Avlon, with roots in Corfu, lost to incumbent Republican Nick LaLota. At 98% of votes counted, Avlon received 44.3% compared to LaLota’s 55.7%.
This election outcome marks a strong representation of Greek-American politicians in the House, as community leaders express satisfaction with the influence of the diaspora in U.S. politics.
