Who we're endorsing: For New York State Senate

Decades of voting trends in New York recently culminated in a milestone Democratic majority in the State Senate; the party now controls 43 of the upper chamber’s 63 seats. That's a two-thirds supermajority plus one. Together with Democratic control of the Assembly, the two houses have the potential to override a governor of any party on any legislation.

That power dynamic could shift on Nov. 8. Under new district lines drawn this year by a court special master, Republicans could pick up at least enough seats to break the two-thirds. Long Island's Senate elections could play a role in that outcome. Right now, Republicans have four Long Island seats, mostly covering swaths of Suffolk County.

Advocating for the district is crucial to the job — which might require working with members of the opposite party. Some candidates show a better history than others of dealing realistically and cooperatively. This was an important factor the editorial board used in making its recommendations.

We encourage voters to learn about the candidates and how they align or differ on issues, even as their parties stake out general positions.

Not sure of your district? Find out here.

Below, see our pick for New York State Senate Districts 1-4 and stay tuned for the rest of our endorsements in districts 5-9 tomorrow.