Public safety unions back Bishop, Altschuler
Opponents Tim Bishop and Randy Altschuler Credit: Newsday
Suffolk's police unions yesterday put their support behind Rep. Tim Bishop (D-Southampton) in his race against Republican Randy Altschuler, who has been endorsed by county sheriff's deputies and correction officers.
The Police Benevolent Association, Superior Officers Association, Detectives Association and district attorney Detective Investigators Association announced their endorsement at a news conference in Bohemia.
"He's absolutely been a champion of our causes," said PBA president Noel DiGerolamo.
With more than 4,000 members, the police unions wield significant clout in county politics. They said they chose Bishop because he has repeatedly come through with funding computer crimes investigations, undercover officer support and other initiatives.
Bishop called the law enforcement endorsements "the highest compliment."
Altschuler's campaign manager, Diana Weir, said it meant something to have local labor support from deputies and corrections officers when, nationally, unions usually endorse Democrats.
"It's important, because these are union people who are not toeing the party line," she said. "They're voting their conscience and in the best interest of the district, everybody."
The Sheriffs PBA confirmed its endorsement for Altschuler, noting that it also supported him in 2010.
