The last time the Independence party endorsed candidates in Lindenhurst was in 1996, when they voiced support for the Republicans.

According to Democratic campaign manager Jeanine Dillon, that endorsement was what won the election for the Republicans four years ago. "We lost by a margin of 106 votes, and there were 196 Independents...so it will have a bearing on the election," Dillon said.

Bill Bogardt, Babylon Town Chair of the Independence party said that they were approached by both Republicans and Democrats. After carefully screening all of the candidates and meeting in caucus, he said it was the Democrats who eventually won their support. "It was a close one actually," Bogardt said. "But most people wanted a change, so we felt there needs to be a change in Lindenhurst Village."

Incumbent trustee candidate Tom Brennan said he was shocked that the Independence party didn’t support his Republican team. "Quite honestly I thought we had a better interview and I can’t see how they went with them," Brennan said.

Democratic mayoral candidate Betty Dean wasn’t surprised, however. "We are for the people and we represent what the Independence people stand for," Dean said.

To counter the strength of the endorsement, the Republicans said that they will be running on a solid record of accomplishments and sound fiscal management. "Physically and fiscally, the Village of Lindenhurst has never been in better shape," Republican leader Henry Wrieth said.

The Democrats said they disagree that the Village is in good shape. "The Village may have a good fiscal rating, but they have nothing to show for it," Dillon said. "Our three candidates are running because they’re fed up with the arrogant attitude of Village Hall."

Dillon said it’s not that uncommon for the Independence Party to endorse Village elections. "They were a new party in 1996, and since then they’ve become more involved in Village races," Dillon said.

Bogardt said that there are approximately 250 residents registered with the Independence party. Because the margin of victory was so close in 1996, he said he thinks the Democrats now have a very good chance of winning. "Our endorsement means a lot," Bogardt said.

Wrieth said he agrees that it will be an obstacle for the Republican party, but not one they can’t overcome. "This just means that we’re going to have to work that much harder and be that much smarter," Wrieth said. "I have a lot of confidence in our candidates because they’re proven and successful people."

Both the Democrats and Republicans will each have two additional lines to run on. The Republicans have the Conservative and Right-to-Life parties, and the Democrats are supported by the Independence party as well as the Working Families party. "This puts us on a far more even playing field," Town of Babylon Democratic leader Jeff Casale said.

The election will take place on Tuesday, March 21. The polls are open from 6 a.m., to 9 p.m.