Gotham Gazette

The Place for New York Policy and politics

Bronx 32nd Senate District: Running from Both Sides of the Fence


Since coming to the State Senate in 1992, Ruben Diaz Sr. has compiled an unusual profile, which shows up in the fact he appears on both the Democratic and Republican party lies o Tuesday, A reverend who served briefly in the City Council, Diaz said he conducted the first Pentecostal service ever inside City Hall and has been an outspoken opponent of abortion and same-sex marriage. However, Diaz has said, " When it comes to education, health, job protection, social services, I am one of the best Democrats you could find."

In July he said he would not say whether, if re-elected, he would ally with Democrats or Republicans in the Senate, a scenario that could give sleepless nights to party leaders from both sides as they fight for control of the body. His son, Ruben Diaz Jr., serves in the State Assembly -- as a Democrat.

Little information was available on the elder Diaz's Conservative opponent, William McDonagh.

Diaz's most recent campaign filing showed him with $33,220. McDonagh showed no contributions.

The district includes parts of Castle Hill, Clason Point, Hunts Point, Longwood, Melrose, Morrisania, Parkchester, Pelham Parkway, Soundview and Union Port.



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