When Suffolk Democrats saw the programs for their fall dinner last week, they may have spotted an unexpected contributor: Republican Legis. Joseph Caracappa , who was listed as a “buffet sponsor.” He gave Democrats $4,000 to help pay for a Villa Lombardi’s spread that included chicken marsala and eggplant rollatini.
“I’m glad they used it for food because I’m Italian and love to eat,” Caracappa said. The donation was “purely a thank-you,” he said, to those involved in “good politics, promoting good government.” He said he also gave $20,000 to the Brookhaven Republicans and $5,000 to the Conservative Party, and plans to make a similar donation to the Independence Party. Caracappa, with $129,000 reported on hand as of July, said he’d hold on to most of the money for a possible future run, or to help other candidates.
Despite political differences, Richard Schaffer, the Suffolk Democratic chairman, said he’s had a warm relationship with Caracappa, as he did with Conservative Legis. Rose Caracappa, the current lawmaker’s late mother, with whom Schaffer served. “It’s who he is,” said Schaffer...
Rick Brand and Reid J. Epstein
... "He’s a loyal friend and that’s something that sorely missing these days,” Schaffer said.
Harry Withers, the Suffolk GOP chairman, said he’d been unaware of Caracappa’s Democratic donation, and was “frankly surprised,” adding the lawmaker hasn’t donated to the county GOP.
Caracappa also donated about $1,200 to Suffolk Sheriff Vincent DeMarco, a Conservative who ran on the Democratic line. Insiders have speculated that Caracappa may go to work for DeMarco upon leaving office. “The guy needs a job, and who is the best position to given him one but the Democrats,” said one GOP official who did not wish to be identified. Caracappa dismissed such talk.
“People say I’m going everywhere, but nothing is set in stone,” he said.
Caracappa has also endorsed, campaigned for and given $500 to Republican legislative contender Thomas Muratore, a former Suffolk PBA official, for his current seat, even though Democrats are targeting the contest with Levy aide Brian Beedenbender. Said Jesse Garcia, Brookhaven GOP chairman: “Joe is a true blue Republican who is loyal.”