Sabini Faces Strong Challenge From Monserrate

In one of the most closely watched races next Tuesday, state Senator John Sabini, running for re-election, is facing a strong challenge from City Councilmember Hiram Monserrate in the Democratic primary in the 13th senate district, covering Jackson Heights, Corona and Elmhurst.

Two years ago, Sabini turned back a challenge from an Hispanic candidate in this heavily Hispanic district. This time around he's left no stone unturned, but his task may be more difficult because Monserrate's council district, anchored by Corona, is part of the larger senate district and Monserrate has won two elections there.

In fact, Monserrate, 38, was the first Hispanic from Queens elected to the council when he ran for the first time in 2001.

However, Sabini, 49, has very deep roots in the area. A longtime Jackson Heights resident, Sabini got his political start here as a community activist, moved up to the Democratic district leader post, won the local city council seat and when he had to give that up because of term limits in 2001, ran a year later and won the newly drawn senate seat.

Perhaps realizing he has a tough race on his hands, Sabini has campaigned hard. He has held major press conferences to announce endorsements from prominent Hispanics, followed by with endorsements from the black community. In each instance, the lists of endorsers ran the gamut from political leaders and officials to community leaders.

Sabini also campaigned several times with Congressmember Joseph Crowley, whose district includes Jackson Heights and who is very popular in its large Indian community.

Running on his record in Albany, Sabini declared he fights hard for all his constituents from diverse communities. He also emphasized his efforts to secure more school dollars for New York City and his district.

One further advantage Sabini will have is a get-out-the-vote drive by the Queens Democratic organization, which has performed very effectively in past elections.

Monserrate has also flaunted his Hispanic support, which was topped by an endorsement by Fernando Ferrer.

Monserrate, a former Marine and New York City cop, also cited his council record, which includes efforts to improve education and calls for better schools and increased police patrols.