Democratic Governor-elect Eliot Spitzer has tapped state Senator Michael Balboni (R-Williston Park) as New York's new homeland security chief.

Balboni jumped at the chance to help with an issue he says has monopolized his thoughts and efforts since September 11th, 2001. The chairman of the Senate Homeland Security Committee says his priorities are border security and communication between every level of government. After serving 17 years between the two legislatures in Albany, Balboni says he looks forward to the new challenge.

Senate Republicans stand to lose more than just Balboni with the appointment. They stand to lose his seat as they hold on to a slim 34 to 28 majority. A special election will likely be scheduled in February, with Democrats optimistic about their chances. With about 7,000 more registered Democrats in the northwest Nassau district, Legislator Craig Johnson (D-Port Washington) has been mentioned as a possible candidate. Sources tell News 12 Long Island former assemblywoman and current Nassau County Clerk Maureen O'Connell is the probable GOP candidate.