Surrounded by hundreds of supporters and joined by family members and leading Democrats from across New York, Councilman Joseph Addabbo formally announced his challenge to Serphin Maltese to represent the 15th District in the State Senate.The announcement took place Saturday afternoon at Danny’s Szechuan on Crossbay Boulevard and 164th Avenue in Howard Beach. The district includes the neighborhoods of Ridgewood, Maspeth, Middle Village, Howard Beach, and Ozone Park.
"For too long, the families here have watched as their taxes have gone up and funding for our schools has gone down,” said Addabbo. “Our local economy is suffering while politicians in Albany simply brush our needs aside. I am running for State Senate to change the way business is done in Albany. It's time to improve the way our government works for the people of this Senate district."
New York State Democratic Chairperson June O'Neill joined Addabbo at his announcement.
"The State Committee is 100% committed to winning a majority in the State Senate because it's time for new leadership, new ideas and a State Senate we can count on to fight for our values,” she said. “From right here in Queens all the way to Buffalo, I look forward to welcoming new Democratic state senators to our new majority in January."
"I have known Joe and his family for years and am very excited that he has decided to take on this critical fight," said Senate Democratic Leader Malcolm A. Smith. "He grew up in a tradition of family service, and there's no elected official who works harder or more effectively for their community. He's going to be a true asset for the hard-working families of Queens."
The race is expected to be one of the hardest fought in the state, and the GOP is expected to spend millions of dollars to defend the incumbent, who barely held on in 2006 against an under-funded and largely unknown opponent in Albert Baldeo, who will likely run again this year, forcing Addabbo into a Democratic Primary race.
"Make no mistake, this will be a tough race," explained Addabbo. "But my father taught me to never back down from a fight just because it was going to be difficult. I stand with the people of Queens and I will be their voice demanding that Albany finally ease our crushing tax burden, give our schools their fair share, and make sure we can afford our healthcare."
CAPTION: Councilman Joseph Addabbo and supporter Martin Auerbach of Howard Beach at an event to announce Addabbo’s campaign for State Senate. Photo: S. Geffon
