It's just something to do, to keep myself busy.

I think Steve made a very conscious decision that he wanted to get his agenda approved and the only way he could get a fair hearing was electing a Democratic legislature.

He was definitely a father figure for me. He was the one who made me go back to law school, supported me during the toughest times as Babylon supervisor, and, most humbling, he picked me to take his place as county leader.

Five years ago, this wouldn't have been on the radar screen. But now, we have a strong county executive whose approval rating is in the 80's, a revitalized party, and a candidate who will be in the majority and can deliver for the district.

I think everybody on all sides needs to realize that you can be prosecuted as is evidenced by Mr. McGowan.

This is 8.6 on the Richter scale. With an open supervisor seat and the GOP organization fighting ... it sounds to me like Islip is Brookhaven 2006.

He was the foundation on which we've been able to build a successful party.