What to know about the special election to replace George Santos

A high-stakes special election in disgraced ex-Congressman George Santos’ former district is being held on Tuesday 13 February, in a race that will likely have major implications for national politics.

The special election in New York’s 3rd Congressional district pits Republican newcomer Mazi Pilip up against Tom Suozzi, a former three-term congressman, who vacated the seat in 2021 to launch an unsuccessful run for governor.

Ms Pilip is an Ethiopian-born, former Israeli Defense Force paratrooper whose compelling backstory has Republicans touting her as a future star of the party.

The by-election has taken on added significance due to Republicans’ slim majority in the House, and is shaping up as a bellwether for how well both parties are faring ahead of the 2024 general election.

The campaign has been dominated by national issues such as border security, abortion, the economy and the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Both parties will be watching the results closely for any signs that the candidates’ messaging on contentious issues resonates with voters.

Mazi Pilip, centre, arrives to vote early at a polling station in Massapequa, New York, on Friday with former GOP congressman Peter King and Oyster Bay town supervisor Joseph Saladino

Recent polling has shown Mr Suozzi with a four point lead in a district that traditionally leans slightly Republican, but the race is essentially a toss-up.

Early voting is underway, and the results will be announced on Tuesday night.

Here’s what to know about the election.

New York City’s migrant crisis has clearly been top of voters’ minds, and both candidates have sought to stake out hardline approaches to border security.

At the final candidate debate on Thursday hosted by News 12, emotions ran