At the center of this year's elections in the New York State Legislature is the single-vote majority that the Republicans currently hold in the Senate. With one less Republican heading to Albany after the November elections, the entire state government from the governor's office to the Assembly to the Senate could be in the hands of one party. That is not something that we believe serves the public good. We need to ensure that there is a system of checks and balances in place, and that the Senate retains the majority and holds on to that house. Without it, not only will Albany lose its bipartisan voice but our Long Island lawmakers will also have a more difficult time in bringing resources to Nassau and Suffolk counties.

It is this broad question, and others, that face voters in this election. We hope that every citizen takes the time to become informed and get to the polls November 4.

Our endorsements go to the following lawmakers:

Senators Chuck Fuschillo (R), Kemp Hannon (R), Owen Johnson (R) who have been doing an outstanding job, often under very difficult circumstances, of serving their constituents and working for the benefit of all Long Islanders in the Senate.

Incumbent Assemblyman Robert Sweeney (D), Andrew Raia (R) and Phil Boyle (R) also earn our endorsement for reelection. They have formed a working partnership in Albany that has enabled them, both Democrats and Republicans, to stave off the push for more state dollars heading to New York City, an area Long Islanders are already subsidizing with their hard-earned state tax dollars.

To their opponents, we say thank you. Thank you for taking the time and making the effort to provide voters with a choice and thank you for raising issues that will undoubtedly help whoever is elected be a more focused and informed lawmaker.