New York Democrats are looking to pick up seats in the state Senate with an eye on shifting power in their favor.

Currently all but one of Long Island's state senators are Republican, giving Long Island a great deal of clout on issues like securing state aid for education in the Republican-controlled state Senate.

Democrats are hoping to pick up the 7th District seat vacated by Republican Jack Martins, who is running for Congress.

Democratic candidate Adam Haber says it's time for a change in leadership, and he's hoping voters don't forget some of the recent scandals involving Republicans on both the state and local levels.

"We absolutely need more transparency in our campaigns and in our government," Haber says. "We need stiffer penalties for politicians who break the law. Reduce corruption and you get a government focused on fixing problems, not politicians on it for themselves."

Republican candidate Elaine Phillips agrees, but she and other Republicans say they fear one-party rule in the state would lead to higher taxes and would leave Long island without a voice in Albany.

"A vote for my opponent will mean that every part of our government -- the governor, the Assembly and the state Senate will be controlled by New York City politicians," Phillips says ."And we know from experience that when New York city controls state government, Long Island loses out."

State Sen. Todd Kaminsky is the lone Democratic state senator in the Long Island delegation. He is looking to hang onto that seat tonight.