Kevan Abrahams to lead NCDC

Kevan Abrahams was recently elected by the Nassau County Democratic Committee to represent the County Legislature as the leader of the Democratic Caucus. Abrahams, 37, has been the legislator of the 1st District since his election in 2002, serving the areas of Uniondale, Roosevelt, Hempstead and Baldwin. When first elected, Abrahams was the youngest legislator in the history of Nassau County; by rising to his new post he will become the first African American in county history to lead a major party.

“It was tremendously humbling and I am honored that my colleagues have kindly elected me the leader for the next two years,” said Abrahams.

Abrahams will be inaugurated as the Democratic leader on Jan 2., replacing Diane Yatauro, the legislator of the 18th district, who chose not to run for reelection as the Democratic presiding officer, a position she held since 2008.

“I am so pleased that Kevan Abrahams will be our new caucus leader,” said legislator Judy Jacobs, a Democrat who represents the 16th District, and who served as the Legislature’s presiding officer from 2000 to 2007.  “He maintains a thorough understanding of county budgeting and finances, which is so sorely needed these days. He also brings proven leadership and a firm dedication to our principles and values.”

As of press time, control of the legislature still hung in the balance as races in the 14th District and 18th District remained to close to call. (See story, page 3.) However, the latest vote count had 10 Republican legislators and nine Democratic legislators, making it likely that Abrahams will be the deputy minority leader. Peter Schmitt, a Republican from Massapequa who represents the 12th District, is the leader of the Republican Caucus and the current presiding officer of the legislature.
In addition to his duties as the Democratic leader, Abrahams also serves as the vice chair of the Rules Committee and as a member of the Economic and Community Development and Labor, Government Services and Operations, Public Safety, Education, Planning and Minority Affairs committees.