The Republican Party will keep its control of the New York state Senate although two Democrats have won the special elections Tuesday, Fox News informed. That’s because a key Democrat who has caucused with the GOP announced he’ll stay put, keeping Republicans in charge at least until June.
Brooklyn Sen. Simcha Felder has long sat with Senate Republicans, to the frustration of other Democrats. Democratic leaders had hoped Felder might return if they won Tuesday’s elections in Westchester County and the Bronx.
But Felder spoiled those hopes Tuesday before the polls closed, saying he didn’t want a fight for Senate control to mar the last weeks of the legislative session.
“I believe it is my obligation to prevent an unprecedented and uncertain late-session political battle that will only hurt my constituents and New Yorkers,” he stated.
In Westchester County, Democratic Assemblywoman Shelley Mayer faced Republican Julie Killian, a former local official. Mayer defeated Killian in the 37th District, winning 58 percent of the votes as of Tuesday night.
In the 32nd District in the Bronx, Democratic Assemblyman Luis Sepulveda faced Republican Patrick Delices. Sepulveda won with 89 percent of the votes as of Tuesday night.
“Today’s wins will once again give Democrats a numeric majority and come November we will win even more seats,” said Senate Democratic spokesman Mike Murphy. “The voters are sick and tired of Democrats that empower Trump Republicans.”
Republicans previously had a one-seat majority in the 63-seat Senate — plus Felder. But since Democrats won both of Tuesday’s races, they now have a one-seat numeric majority.
Thanks to Felder’s support, however, Republicans will stay in charge at least through the end of the legislative session in June.
“We’re thrilled with Senator Felder’s decision to continue to caucus with our majority,” Senate GOP spokesman Scott Reif said.
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