Could we see a Major Shift in the New York Senate?

According to the most recent Siena College poll there are three very crucial Senate races where incumbent Democratic Senators are trailing to their Republican challengers. 

 

Republican Senator Rich Funke has a 57-32 percent lead over Democratic Senator Ted O’ Brien. Republican Senator Sue Serino has a 52 percent to 40 percent lead over Democratic Senator Terry Gipson. And Republican George Amedore is leading the incumbent Democratic Senator Cecilia Tkaczyk by 10 percentage points. All three of those Democrats won their respective districts in 2012. With the increasing approval for Republicans in these districts the Republicans are looking for Senate majority. It does seem that Andrew Cuomo is the heavy favorite to win Governor however if the Republicans win these three key Senate races we could see a divided government in New York State Government. 

 

  There was more good news for Republicans last week, as the Siena poll showed that Republicans were favored in two Long Island districts.

 

In other news, there was a debate in Poughkeepsie between Senator Terry Gipson-D and county Legislator Sue Serino-R. These two candidates will face off for the 41^st Senate District in the November 4^th election. A major issue discussed at the debate was the topic of abortion. Senator Serino questioned the legitimacy of the proposed Women's Equality Act. She questioned the Act’s plan to allow a “non doctor” to perform an abortion. She has even stated that she opposes abortion. Senator Gipson on the other hand supports abortion and believes that the Women’s Equality Act is simply putting the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court ruling into state law. Another hot topic addressed at this debate was campaign financing.  In the debate, Senator Gipson said he supports the public financing of campaigns. Serino addressed the fact that public financing campaigns will increase taxes. Near the end of the debate both candidates highlighted some environmental issues. Gipson stressed his opposition to hydro-fracking. Serino explained the importance drinkable and renewable water resources but she also argued that if it (hydro-fracking) is done correctly, it could improve the state’s economy.