Early Political Move: Basketball Coach's Surprise Bid for Congress
Troy McGhie, renowned in Staten Island for his contributions to education and basketball coaching, has made an unexpected political move. The career educator announced his decision to run for Congress in the 2026 elections as a Democratic candidate, hoping to unseat the current Republican representative, Nicole Malliotakis. This early announcement comes as a surprise even before the 2025 campaigns have concluded, showcasing McGhie’s eagerness and dedication to initiate change.
Community Leadership and Educational Advocacy
McGhie’s candidacy is deeply rooted in his extensive experience as an educator. For over two decades, he has been a staple in Staten Island’s school system, teaching at both Curtis and Petrides High Schools, and making significant impacts as a basketball coach. According to McGhie, education and safety are at the forefront of his agenda. “Funding for public education, affordable healthcare, and public safety are essential for our community’s progress,” he stated passionately at a recent speech in Rosebank.
Lessons from the Basketball Court
Given his background as a basketball coach, McGhie believes the values learned on the court translate well into effective political leadership. He envisions creating policies that reflect teamwork, strategic planning, and resilience, much like the principles taught in sports. “We need someone who embodies character, values, and principles,” he emphasized, highlighting the importance of integrity and trust in public service.
A Familiar Face with New Political Aspirations
McGhie is no stranger to political aspirations, having previously run for the North Shore City Council seat in 2021. Though he did not secure the position then, the experience fueled his determination to contribute more significantly to regional governance. His role as a community liaison for former Councilmember Debi Rose further solidified his engagement with local issues, building a platform based on firsthand community interaction and support.
The Road Ahead: A Call for Change
In addition to education, McGhie is committed to enhancing public safety and ensuring that all schools thrive as secure and nurturing environments. His experience with both safe and challenged schools serves as a foundation for his mission to advocate for robust educational policies.
With a dedicated team, a comprehensive campaign website, and filings confirmed with the Federal Election Commission, McGhie’s early entry into the 2026 race signals not just an ambition but a call to action for Staten Island residents. As stated in SILive.com, this bold move sets the stage for an engaging political landscape on Staten Island and showcases the potential for change driven by committed local leaders like Troy McGhie.
