With no major political contests slated for this year’s election season, the primary for the Republican District Leadership in the 23rd AD is quickly turning out to be the most interesting race in all of Queens.
While historically these elections are uncontested, the fight for control of one of Queens’ only competitive districts is heating up. The incumbent leaders, Teresa Ariola of Howard Beach and Ed O’Hare of Broad Channel, must face a challenge from Eric Ulrich of Ozone Park and Jane Deacy of the Rockaway Peninsula.
In 2005, Ariola held on to the position by only 99 votes, the narrowest victory in the history of the district. She will now face Breezy Point resident Jane Deacy who is expected to carry the Rockaway community.
Ulrich ran for the same position two years ago, but lost by 124 votes. Though he is not from Rockaway, Ulrich has already picked up the endorsement of the Rockaway Republicans Club. Club President Tom Lynch expressed his optimism for what he hopes will be a changing of the guard.
“Jane and Eric will raise the profile of the Republican Party for not only Rockaway, but every neighborhood in the district,” said Lynch. “We need district leaders who will promote Republican principles and will actually be visible in the community,” he added.
Ulrich is the President of the Angelo Graci Republican Club in Ozone Park and has already vowed to restore the voter’s faith in a two party system if elected.
Ulrich praised Deacy’s acceptance as a sign of better things to come. “Jane is someone who will make us proud. She is a strong and intelligent woman who will bring a ‘no nonsense’ approach to the local political scene,” said Ulrich.
In her surprise announcement, Deacy expressed her own reasons for entering the race. “I am ready to make a positive difference. I want to do everything I can to strengthen the Republican Party. Increasing membership into this Grand Old Party will be a top priority,” said Deacy.
The primary is September 18.
Editor’s note: Next week The Courier Sun will feature the incumbents.
