
Member of the New York State Assembly for District 82; elected in 2004 and in office since 2005
Focus: Education
No endorsements beyond the Democratic nomination were found as of Sept. 30, 2026.
General Election
Longtime teacher-turned-legislator faces a Realtor running on homeownership and policing
Democrat Michael R. Benedetto, in the Assembly since 2005, won his June 2026 primary with 62.3% of the vote. Republican Irene Guanill, a Realtor and president of the Pelham Bay Merchants Association, advanced after her party's primary was canceled.

Member of the New York State Assembly for District 82; elected in 2004 and in office since 2005
Focus: Education
No endorsements beyond the Democratic nomination were found as of Sept. 30, 2026.
Realtor for more than 20 years; involved in buying, rehabilitating and selling real estate since 1998
Housing — Supports grants for first-time home buyers and wants no property taxes for seniors, allowing them to age with dignity and security.
Pelham Bay Merchants Association +3
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Policing, gun safety and cannabis rules
State law sets the rules on firearms, criminal justice and where cannabis may be sold, including a February 2026 law that changed how close cannabis dispensaries may be to schools and houses of worship; the Assembly votes on any change to these rules.
Wants to work with police to make sure they have the tools, training and support needed to keep the district safe.
Irene Guanill campaign website — My PlatformSchools, teacher reviews and trade training
State law sets many rules public schools follow, such as how teachers and principals are reviewed; the Assembly decides whether to change those rules and what the state does to promote trade schools and job training.
Wants to vigorously promote trade schools so young people gain valuable skills for the future, and says education needs to be accessible to all.
Irene Guanill campaign website — My PlatformHousing costs and homeownership
Much of New York's housing law moves through the state budget, such as the 2024-25 education, labor, housing and family assistance budget bill signed in April 2024, so an Assembly member's budget votes shape state housing policy.
Supports grants for first-time home buyers and wants no property taxes for seniors, allowing them to age with dignity and security.
Irene Guanill campaign website — My PlatformCycle-to-date · NYS Board of Elections — figures change as new reports are filed.
BenedettoResearched & verified Sep 30, 2026. Compiled from verified public sources; claims that failed verification are excluded.
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