LaValle wants Ed Romaine to succeed his late son

After weeks of buzz in Brookhaven, John Jay LaValle, Suffolk Republican chairman, now says publicly he wants Legis. Edward Romaine (R-Center Moriches) to run in the special election to succeed his late son, Keith Romaine, on the town board.

“He is the best candidate by far,” said LaValle, adding he has had “some discussions” with the lawmaker and believes he is “interested absolutely.” LaValle added he is not pressing Romaine, 62, whose son died unexpectedly weeks after winning his first re-election to Brookhaven town council.

A Romaine spokesman declined to comment.