Schumer endorses Suozzi for Nassau exec

Nassau County executive candidate Thomas Suozzi received his highest-profile endorsement to date Saturday as Sen. Charles Schumer announced he was backing the Glen Cove Democrat as he attempts to regain his old job.

"Tom Suozzi was a first-rate county executive who turned Nassau County's finances around," Schumer (D-N.Y.) said. " . . . He has the skills, experience and vision to address the county's fiscal challenges and create a better future for middle-class New Yorkers."

Suozzi, who served two terms as county executive from 2002 to 2009, is facing East Hills businessman Adam Haber in the Democratic primary. The winner will challenge Republican County Executive Edward Mangano in November.

Suozzi said he was "deeply humbled" to receive the backing of New York's senior senator, who does not typically endorse candidates in Democratic primaries.

"Senator Schumer is a fantastic and dedicated public servant and a wonderful representative for New York State," Suozzi said. "I am proud to have his support."

Suozzi has also received the endorsement of Reps. Carolyn McCarthy (D-Mineola) and Steve Israel (D-Huntington), state Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli, Nassau legislators and a host of labor unions.