Yatauro won't seek Nassau re-election

The Nassau Legislature's minority leader Diane Yatauro announced Monday that she will not seek re-election this fall but will remain as the head of the Democratic caucus until her term ends in December.

The expected announcement by the Glen Cove Democrat cited personal considerations for her decision: "My daughter has transferred to a new high school to pursue studies in theater arts. My father-in-law passed away unexpectedly in December. These events have changed the focus of my life. I need to devote more time to my family."

Yatauro was first elected in 2003. She was chosen presiding officer by Democratic lawmakers in 2008 when the party controlled the 19-member legislature. She was voted minority leader in 2010 after Republicans won an 11-seat majority.

Yatauro has recommended that Deputy Minority Leader Kevan Abrahams (D-Hempstead) take her place when she leaves, but some lawmakers back Legis. Wayne Wink (D-Roslyn) for the leadership job, which pays $63,500 compared with the legislative salary of $39,500.