Nassau comptroller may seek Schumer's Senate seat

Nassau Comptroller George Maragos is apparently looking for lightning to strike twice. The Great Neck Republican and wealthy businessman, who won his first elected post last November, is exploring a challenge against Sen. Charles Schumer this fall and has met with political leaders across the state to test the waters, sources say.

Some Nassau Republicans tried to dissuade Maragos, saying he should concentrate on being comptroller for now, sources say. But he's forging ahead with Nassau GOP chairman Joseph Mondello's reluctant blessing.

Maragos could not be reached for comment.

Mondello said in a statement: "He's a great guy doing an outstanding job as comptroller and I think he would do a fine job in any position he was to hold."

- Celeste Hadrick