Politics & Government

Levy Shocks Suffolk Pols

County executive's decision to leave at term's end surprises legislators.

When former Chief Deputy County Executive James Morgo heard that his ex-boss was declining a run for a third term as county executive, he kept repeating the same words: shocked, stunned and saddened.

"Steve [Levy] was so popular he ran unopposed last time. So to take him out of the equation is huge," he said.

He called it a political "earthquake."

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Levy shook up Suffolk County government late this afternoon when he issued a letter explaining his decision to pass on another four years on the job he has held since winning it in November 2003. Levy cited his gubernatorial run as a Republican last year, as well as an investigation into his re-election campaign's fundraising practices.

"The announcement was a surprise to all of us and certainly changes the dynamics of the political landscape in Suffolk County," said Suffolk Legislature Presiding Officer William Lindsay, D-Holbrook. "Levy's been a part of the landscape for 25 years. Things have changed with one announcement." 

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Prior to his seven years as county executive, Levy served 15 years in the Suffolk County Legislature, representing the 8th district, the seat Lindsay now holds. Levy also spent three years in Albany in the state assembly. 

Some legislators were ready to move on. For instance, Legis. John Kennedy Jr., R-Nesconset, who was recently elected minority leader, was already touting the GOP's chances of cobbling together a majority this November.

He predicted that Republican Martin Haley will win the March 29 special election for 6th legislative district, formerly held by Dan Losquadro.

One member of the legislature who said he had "no love lost" for Levy is Legis. DuWayne Gregory, D-Amityville, who recently

"People were beginning to question if the public persona of Steve Levy matched his character. Today, it's clear there’s some type of issues with his character and ways he’s running his campaign contributions," Gregory said. 

The legislator said the incident will only serve to further tarnish the public perception of politicians.


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