News

Kaminsky and McGrath run for the State Senate

Posted

Assemblyman Todd Kaminsky (D-Long Beach), who for nearly a month remained silent on whether he would seek the vacant State Senate seat left open by former Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos, formally announced his campaign in Long Beach on Sunday, the same day he was endorsed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

The announcement came just days after the Nassau County Republican Committee selected Hewlett Harbor resident and Inwood native Christopher McGrath as their candidate for the seat.

Last Friday, Cuomo set the special election for April 19, the day of New York State’s presidential primary.

McGrath, 57, is a partner and lead litigator specializing in personal injury for Garden City-based Sullivan, Papain, Block, McGrath & Cannavo. His work has been recognized multiple times by organizations in the legal field. He is also an adjunct professor at Hofstra University School of Law. McGrath is held in high regard in the Five Towns, especially for his work with Peninsula Kiwanis.

“I am running because I believe there should be a two-party system. If the Republicans lose control of the state senate, Long Island will get less state aid and there will be an increase in taxes, “ McGrath said.

On Sunday, Kaminsky, surrounded by neighbors, family and supporters, including former State Assemblyman Harvey Weisenberg, announced his candidacy to replace Skelos at East School, his alma mater.

Kaminsky, the former federal prosecutor, said to a crowd of about 100 people. “If we don’t fix what’s wrong with our government, we will not be able to fix what’s wrong with our cities, villages and towns. Today I announce my candidacy for the State Senate.”

Nassau Democrats tapped Kaminsky as their candidate to replace Skelos in the 9th District, and he had long been rumored to be the favorite for the Senate seat prior to Skelos’s conviction on corruption charges in December. Kaminsky was unanimously selected at a meeting on Jan. 4, beating out other potential candidates including Rockville Centre attorney Laura Gillen and County Legislator Carrie Solages.

Page 1 / 3