Jockeying for position at Suffolk GOP convention

Assemb. Michael Fitzpatrick wants to be named for re-election at tonight's Suffolk Republican convention, but also plans to circulate petitions to get on the GOP primary ballot for Congress.

However, John Jay LaValle, Suffolk Republican chairman, said he opposes Fitzpatrick's dual effort, saying it makes him "look either indecisive or like an opportunist" to voters.

"I don't like the idea," said the party leader. "You can't have one foot in two different campaigns - you're either in the game or out of the game," referring to a likely crowded Republican primary for the right to take on Rep. Tim Bishop (D-Southampton). But critics say LaValle is trying to clear the field to help Christopher Cox, son of state GOP leader Edward Cox.

The county GOP convention, scheduled to start at 7 p.m. will name congressional, state Legislature, county and judicial candidates, but leave the First District open to all comers.

Fitzpatrick, the last one to enter the contest but the lone GOP incumbent in the field, said he needs the extra time to raise the $200,000 to $250,000 to wage a competitive congressional primary bid Sept. 14. He has until July 19 to decline one race. "We're pursuing Congress as priority one here," he said, adding if he raises the money, he will give up his Assembly seat. Still, Fitzpatrick, who had only $30,000 in his state war chest, said he wants the renomination "to protect my flank."

While Fitzpatrick has been twice touted as the most conservative member of the Assembly by state Conservatives, the minor party last week gave its line to millionaire Randy Altschuler. But Altschuler has also incurred the ire of tea party activists, who say he has exported jobs to Asia and is an extreme liberal because he once belonged to the Green Party. Altschuler denies those claims.

Also in the running is former Securities and Exchange Commission lawyer George Demos. A fifth contender, Gary Berntsen, at LaValle's urging, is eyeing Sen. Charles Schumer's seat.

"We know who the opportunists are here," Fitzpatrick said. "I'm the only candidate with the roots, record and reputation." He said his opponents are funding their own campaigns.