New York Democrats Select Their Candidates—And 'Purge' a State Senator

New York Democrats gathered on Wednesday to formally nominate candidates for state office, but they also resolved to purge one of their own: Brooklyn state senator Simcha Felder. The conservative Democrat has always caucused with Republicans, giving them a one-vote majority and the ability to veto Democratic proposals.

Democratic Party Chairman Geoff Berman said the non-binding resolution allowed convention delegates to voice frustration at Felder. But Borough Park delegate David Schwartz, a district leader from Felder’s area, opposed the move.

"To kick him off the ballot is just ridiculous," said Schwartz. "People in the community see it as an attack on the community."

The resolution is largely symbolic. It calls on the Brooklyn Democrats to strip Felder of his party registration, because expulsions—which are incredibly rare—occur at the county level. Also the leader of the county party objects, so action would be unlikely.

Felder could not be reached for comment. He faces at least one Democratic primary challenger in September, but in November he could run on the Republican line, which he has done in the past.

As for the party nominations, Gov. Andrew Cuomo received more than 95 percent of the delegates’ votes, even trouncing challenger Cynthia Nixon among left-wing members. Cuomo’s running mate, Kathy Hochul, got 94 percent of the votes for Lieutenant Governor, over City Councilman Jumaane Williams. And Leticia James, the city’s Public Advocate, got the overwhelming nod for Attorney General, over Zephyr Teachout and Leecia Ave.