Both candidates vying to replace outgoing state Sen. Jack Martins and represent the state Senate’s 7th district received notable endorsements over the past two weeks.
Democrat Adam Haber received the endorsements of state Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli and state Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul, while his opponent, Republican Elaine Phillips, received the endorsements of the Business Council of New York State, whose some 2,400 business members represent more than 1.2 million employees, making it the state’s largest employer group, and the 50,000-member Public Employees Federation, the state’s second largest public employee union.
DiNapoli said Haber has been an “honest advocate for Long Island taxpayers since he started his career in public service,” and touted his efforts on the Roslyn school board after “millions were stolen by the former superintendent.”
“He served with integrity on the Nassau Interim Finance authority putting the issues of transparency and tax savings as his top priorities,” he said. “As a Long Islander, I am confident that Adam Haber will serve our collective needs in the State Senate with the utmost integrity and I am proud lend my voice to endorse him today.”
Hochul said Haber was a “leader and role model for his entire community in Nassau County.”
Haber, a former commodities trader and restaurateur, said he was “honored” by DiNapoli’s endorsement and “proud” to have received Hochul’s endorsement.
Heather Briccetti, the Business Council’s president, said Phillips has shown a “strong commitment to improving the business climate of New York State” and “recognizes the challenges facing our state and is prepared to face those challenges with legislative solutions that will improve the lives of all New Yorkers.”
Her campaign has focused on both lowering taxes and supporting businesses, while also creating jobs in the state.
The Public Employees Federation represents employees in professional, scientific and technical positions across state and local governments.
“Our dedicated public employees work hard to provide the services that citizens and taxpayers need and rely on, and I am proud honored to have their support,” Phillips said. “From teachers to health care givers, scientists and supervisors, the men and women of PEF work day in and day out to support our communities and make government work.”
Haber and Phillips are set to face off on Nov. 8 to represent the 7th Senate district.
The 7th Senate district includes the Town of North Hempstead and parts of the towns of Hempstead and Oyster Bay.
Phillips, Haber rack up endorsements as election nears
By Joe Nikic