The imminent appointment of Sen. John Sabini as a senior advisor on racing to Gov. David Paterson, ending his likely bloody re-match against Councilman Hiram Monserrate in 13th SD, is part of a package deal that includes a state takeover of the city OTB operation, according to sources familiar with the deal.
The OTB agreement is all-but done, and could be announced as early as this afternoon.
Despite the fact that an administration job was one of several potential exit strategies were offered Sabini when it became clear the Queens County Democratic organization, followed by numerous labor unions, would abandon him in favor of Monserrate, this agreement didn't come together until just yesterday.
Another option Sabini rejected was a run for City Council in 2009.
The deal is a win-win all around.
Sabini, who is the ranking Democratic member on the Senate Racing and Wagering Committee, doesn't have to suffer through a primary he stood a good chance of losing.
Senate Minority Leader Malcolm Smith, who had pledged to support Sabini, doesn't have to spend cash he needs for competitive GOP-on-Democrat races to protect an incumbent.
Gov. David Paterson, whose peace with Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno and disinterest in helping Senate Democrats raise money for a takeover had caused some consternation among minority members, earns some points for helping avoid a primary.
Queens Democratic Party Executive Secretary Mike Reich insisted his organization didn't have a hand in this deal, but he's nonetheless happy it's going down.
"I think it's great that John has a landing place," Reich said. "I think it's a significant position for him and opportunity for him to advance his career, and we congratulate the state for making this decision."
"..In the end this is probably working out the best for everybody, for John, for the community for the Queens County Democrats and for the state."
UPDATE: Paterson's office just announced a 3 p.m. press conference at his Manhattan office.
