"Tom Suozzi's Return: The Secret Meeting and the Race to Replace Santos"

Governor Kathy Hochul met with former congressman Tom Suozzi to discuss his potential nomination as the Democratic candidate in a special election to replace George Santos. Hochul presented Suozzi with demands, including running as a defender of abortion rights and not running ads damaging the party's brand. Suozzi agreed to each request and also apologized for his aggressive campaign tactics against Hochul in a previous primary race. The meeting resulted in a détente, clearing the way for Suozzi's formal announcement as the Democratic candidate. The special election will take place on February 13, 2024, and the district is considered a tossup.