Nassau races now official, GOP keeps lead

Two Democrats and a Republican have been officially declared winners in closely contested races in November for the Nassau County Legislature, giving Republicans a 10-9 majority.

The Nassau County Board of Elections certified the winners as:

3rd District: Democrat Carrié Solages over Republican incumbent John Ciotti, 5,906 to 5,705.

14th: GOP incumbent Joseph Belesi over Democrat Eva Pearson 5,919 to 5,813.

18th: Democrat Delia DeRiggi-Whitton over Republican Robert Germino 6,312 to 6,276.

"I wanted to express how much I appreciate the opportunity . . . [and] I will work diligently . . . in these tough economic times," said DeRiggi-Whitton, of Glen Cove, who won an open seat after Legis. Diane Yatauro (D-Glen Cove) retired.

Said Germino: "Our district is about evenly split on the best way to solve Nassau County's problems. I thank the half of the district that voted for me."

Although Democrats picked up a seat, the win by Belesi, of Farmingdale, helps the GOP maintain its majority in the 19 member body. As such, Republicans would be expected to control next year's legislative redistricting -- although Democrats threatened Thursday to vote against all borrowing except for "prudent" legal settlements unless the GOP agrees to nonpartisan redistricting. New legislative lines will be in effect for 10 years.

Solages, of Elmont, in his second attempt, ousted Ciotti of North Valley Stream, a 16-year incumbent who is the deputy presiding officer.

"I look forward to working hard for my district and helping our residents in any way that I can," said Solages.

Ciotti did not return calls.

The winner of the race for Glen Cove mayor also was certified, with incumbent Democrat Ralph Suozzi beating Republican Paul Meli, 3,068 votes to 2,926.

With Emily Ngo