Suffolk GOP passes on picking challenger to Bishop

Suffolk Republican leaders indicated late Friday they won't pick a congressional candidate to take on Democratic Rep. Timothy Bishop but opened the door to five-way primary for the nomination.

But as GOP officials met, county Conservative Party chairman Edward Walsh said he is backing controversial Republican multimillionaire Randy Altschuler.

The GOP officials made the decision allowing the free-for-all after a three-hour closed-door meeting. "We have a unique year where we have had so many quality candidates that we decided to let the voters decide," William Ellis, Smithtown GOP chairman, said afterward.

The split over candidate selection between the major and minor parties could lead to Republicans ultimately backing one candidate and Conservatives another - likely aiding Bishop's re-election.

"If Republicans can't come to a consensus," said Richard Schaffer, Suffolk Democratic chairman, "then it's clear Tim Bishop is the best choice."

Walsh's endorsement angered several tea party activists who say Altschuler's former company, Office Tigers, sent jobs to Asia.

GOP contenders for the district's biggest primary in 22 years also include Christopher Cox, grandson of late President Richard M. Nixon; George Demos, a former U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission lawyer; former CIA official Gary Berntsen; and Assemb. Michael Fitzpatrick (R-St. James).

Reached after the meeting, Fitzpatrick claimed to be the most conservative in the field. "I have the record to prove it. Conservatives made a mistake, but I'm going to rectify it in November. . . . People want the best candidate, not the one with the most money."

Altschuler spokesman Rob Ryan welcomed an open primary, saying, "It's what the voters in the 1st District deserve and Randy will win." Other contenders could not be reached.

Altschuler has reported $1.5 million, the most cash on hand, while Fitzpatrick has the least with $30,000, though he plans a fundraiser for May 1.