By Jeremy Walsh
A week after receiving the endorsement from the Queens Democratic Party, City Councilman Hiram Monserrate (D-East Elmhurst) officially announced his candidacy for the state Senate seat currently held by John Sabini (D-Jackson Heights).
The two will square off in the Sept. 9 Democratic primary election before November's general election. The district, which includes Corona, East Elmhurst, Elmhurst, Jackson Heights and portions of Forest Hills and Woodside, is heavily Democratic.
"I want to take the same energy I brought to the Council to Albany," Monserrate said at a news conference in Jackson Heights Monday, touting his efforts to get affordable housing in Willets Point and increase the police presence on Roosevelt Avenue.
Monserrate indicated his chief priorities as senator would be affordable housing, more parks and playgrounds and public safety.
A number of city union leaders were also on hand to praise Monserrate.
"Hiram is a person of courage," said Edison Severino, business manager for union Laborers Local 78. "We all know the politics of incumbency, but this year we're bringing change to Albany."
Joe Puleo, vice president of public employees' union DC 37 Local 983, hailed Monserrate's leadership skills.
"He brings diverse people together, builds effective coalitions and get results," Puleo said. "We are proud to be on the ground with him."
Denny Meyer, a gay veteran and Kew Gardens resident, praised Monserrate for co-sponsoring one of the City Council's initiatives condemning the U.S. military's "don't ask, don't tell" policy on gays in the military.
"He represents someone who is capable and interested in change and progress," Meyer said.
Monserrate's supporters included one vocal Sabini foe: Al Blake, a Lefrak City youth organizer, who led a protest in front of Sabini's office calling for the senator's resignation after his arrest on suspicion of drunk driving.
"He will win," said Blake, wearing a "Monserrate" baseball cap. "With our support, it's a done deal."
Sabini has pledged to stay in the race, which will get heated, if past contests are any indication.
The two Democrats will revive a rivalry that dates back to 2004, when Monserrate backed Luis Rosero to challenge Sabini. In 2006, Monserrate threw his own hat into the ring, waging a bitter campaign that Sabini won by 200 votes.
Fund-raising totals favored the incumbent at the beginning of the year. So far, Sabini has raised $140,780, while Monserrate has raised $105,288, according to state Elections Board reports through January 2008.
How the party endorsement has affected campaign contributions remains to be seen.
Reach reporter Jeremy Walsh by e-mail at jwalsh@timesledger.com or by phone at 718-229-0300, Ext. 154.
