Gang of Three?
November 10th, 2008
The speculation over whether some Democratic state senators might bolt their conference to back Republican State Sen. Dean Skelos as majority leader got new life this morning. The mini-revolt could mean that even though Democrats have a majority of seats in the Senate, Republicans could control the body.
The buzz over the so-called Gang of Four subsided a bit late last week when one of them — Hiram Monserrate of Queens — said he would support Smith. But this morning another of the group — Ruben Diaz Sr. of the Bronx — issued a statement saying nothing had been determined.
“There is a commitment — a handshake commitment — between Senator-elect [Pedro] Espada, Senator [Carl] Kruger, Senator-elect Monserrate, and myself that we will not do anything until we meet Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2008.” While saying Monserrate may have made up his mind, Diaz continued, “I have not made a decision yet and hope the others have not either. I have not committed myself to anybody, and my position as an ordained minister and a pastor will not allow me to support any would be leader that will bring gay marriage to the Senate floor.”
“I have always been a Democrat … and I will continue to be a Democrat,” Diaz concluded, “a Democrat who rejects gay marriage and abortion based upon my beliefs.”
Earlier this morning Running Scared, citing a report in the Examiner, said Diaz had pledged to support Smith and wondered whether the Smith had “cut a deal on gay marriage” to win Diaz’s support. Although gay groups supported the Democrats’ effort to win the State Senate and Smith has said he supports same-sex marriage, the Queens Democrat said last week that his party will focus on the fiscal crisis during the next session.
For a look at what happens if the Democrats clear this hurdle and control the State Senate, read our roundup of views from the experts — The Other Power Shift.
By Gail Robinson on November 10, 2008, 11:11 amIn category: Albany, Electoral Politics, Gotham City | 2 Comments »

