Nicholas Confessore of the NY Times is reporting that the Queens Democratic Party will support a challenger to convicted criminal Monseratte next year by backing Assemblyman Jose Peralta:
With statewide elections a year away, the Queens Democratic Party will take the unusual step on Thursday of announcing its support for a primary challenger to embattled State Senator Hiram Monserrate, who was convicted of a misdemeanor assault charge two weeks ago.
José R. Peralta, 37, an assemblyman from Jackson Heights who is considered one of the party's rising stars, said he would announce his decision to run for the seat whether or not Mr. Monserrate, a fellow Democrat, resigned or was expelled. And Mr. Peralta will enjoy the backing of the Queens Democratic Party, whose leader, Representative Joseph Crowley, said he would unveil his endorsement during the party's pre-election dinner.
Apparently this is necessary because the Criminal is rebuffing all calls to resign. Even though I don't know much about him, I'm inclined to support Peralta against Monseratte unless a better challenger emerges. |
