The most recent fight for control of the Queens County Republican organization between factions led by current county chair Phil Rugusa and challenger former Congressmember Bob Turner (supported by Councilmember Eric Ulrich and his insurgents) reminds me of two hyenas fighting over the carcass of a dead animal — in this case remnants of the once-relevant Queens Republican Party.
Without a united political organization under current Queens County Chair Phil Regusa and the ability to raise real dollars, the ever-dwindling number of Queens Republicans will continue on the path to political extinction. In turn, this will impact the ability of any Republican to successfully run for and win city or statewide office.
Any victorious city or statewide Republican candidate must come out of Queens with a decent showing to offset overwhelming Democratic votes from the Bronx, Brooklyn and Manhattan.
Larry Penner
