With Nassau County Legislator Craig Johnson's (D-Port Washington) victory in the special state Senate election Tuesday, changes to Mineola politics may be felt more immediately than in Albany.

Johnson's departure from the Legislature creates a political deadlock with nine Republicans and nine Democrats. Presiding Officer Judy Jacobs (D-Woodbury) says the equal footing of each party gives lawmakers an opportunity to prove they can work together. The county charter dictates the Legislature must wait 30 to 60 days before holding an election for Johnson's replacement. Some Democrats have already mentioned North Hempstead Town Council member Wayne Wink, while Republicans have not speculated publicly.

Johnson defeated Nassau County Clerk Maureen O'Connell (R) for the 7th District state Senate seat vacated by Michael Balboni. Governor Eliot Spitzer (D-NY) chose Balboni to head up the state's homeland security department in January. Once Johnson takes his oath, Republicans will hold a tight four-vote advantage, 33-29.

Related Information Nassau voters elect Democrat Johnson to state Senate in special election