In bad news for Republicans, Suffolk’s county legislative Democrats this morning got a surprise overflow crowd to launch the campaign to re-elect their majority, raising about $50,000.
On the eve of the $200-a-head event, organizers expected to draw about 200. But walk-in traffic forced them to add seven tables in the Sheraton Hotel ballroom in Hauppauge at the last minute -- and there were still nearly three dozen ringing the room during speeches.
An ebullient Presiding Offiver Bill Lindsay (D-Holbrook) noted that a cocktail party run two years ago by legislative Democrats attracted only 100. “It must have something to do with being in power,” he said. “I don’t have this many friends.”
Some present said the packed house was reminscent of the fundraisers staged by Republicans as they dominated the county in the 1970’s and 80’s. “The only thing missing was (former Sufolk GOP chairman Edwin) Buzz Schwenk yelling, ‘One more time.’”
Rick Brand
Richard Schaffer, Suffolk Democratic chairman, said his goal is not only to hold to the legislature's 10-vote majority but to increase its numbers, and new candidates have been out walking their districts since December.
In particular, Schaffer said that the party has a strong contender to take on Legis. Edward Romaine (R-Center Moriches) in Suffolk County -- police officer Matthew Bjelobrk, 39, of Wading River, a major in Army National Guard who served as a helicopter pilot in Iraq. “Were looking to retire Ed and let him enjoy the rest of his life,” said Schaffer.
One Democratic aide, who did not wish to be identified, speculated that the size of the crowd may in part be a reaction to worries about impending departure of top Levy aide Kevin Law to the Long Island Power Authority. “Half of them may feel they are going to have to have a friend somewhere,” the aide quipped.
Comments (1)
Little richie better hope that the team that help win Republican Judith Pascale's race in november against LOSER Vivian Fisher does not join Ed Romaines campaign. If so, it will become all so obvious that richie cant win the tough ones. comments?