Israel and Schimel to be Represented by Stand-ins at Debate

Two incumbent Democrats will be represented by stand-ins at a debate Monday in Port Washington featuring congressional and New York State Assembly candidates.

The debate will focus on a range of topics emphasizing issues that matter most to local seniors, according to a release by Morgan Schaeffer, an organizer of the event which will be held at The Amsterdam, a senior living facility. 

Absent from the forum will be Rep. Steve Israel, D-Huntington, and state Assemblywoman Michelle Schimel, D-Great Neck, according to event organizers.

The debate is open to media and residents of the The Amsterdam.

Schimel staff member Elizabeth Cole, a legislative analyst, will read a prepared statement at the debate on behalf of the Sixteenth District legislator who will be honoring a previous committment and attending a New York Against Gun Violence event Monday, according to a Schimel aide.

Schimel's opponent, Richard Steik, R-Port Washington, is scheduled to appear at the event which begins at 7:30 p.m.

Representing Israel will be Nassau County Legis. Wayne Wink, D-Roslyn.

A request for comment to Israel by Patch regarding the use of the county legislator to speak on behalf of the congressman was not returned Friday.

Republican Stephen Labate, who is looking to unseat Israel in the Third Congressional District race, will be on hand to answer questions and make a statement.

State Seventh District candidates Sen. Jack Martins, R-Mineola, and his Democratic challenger Daniel Ross are scheduled to speak.

All candidates are expected to be present League of Women Voters debate Oct. 23 at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Manhasset.