For years now I have heard that Brooklyn's Democratic Party Boss Vito Lopez has actively discouraged Democratic challenges to Republican Marty Golden. It has been, in fact, one of my ongoing criticisms of Lopez: he fails in his job of leading the Democratic Party in challenges against Republicans. He almost seems to want to protect Republicans.

Well this year Vito Lopez has a chance to show he really can be a leader rather than just protecting his own interests. Democrat Mike DiSanto has announced he is challenging Republican Marty Golden for the 22nd State Senate Seat. And remember, Democrats need to take more seats in the State Senate if we want to end the deadlock in Albany. I have met Mike DiSanto and I think his energy and optimism will be helpful in the State Senate to clear out the malaise that Republicans like Marty Golden and Republican-Lite Democats like Pedro Espada and Rubin Diaz have caused.

Here is Mike DiSanto's statement annoucing his candidacy:

Although you may have already heard, I want to personally announce my candidacy to you for New York State Senator, representing the 22nd District.

For those of you who know me well, you know that a political career has never been a dream or aspiration of mine. So I did not make the decision to run for the Senate lightly.

I have spent my entire life in South Brooklyn. I attended PS 97 elementary school, Mark Twain Junior High School, and Midwood High School. After graduating from Baruch College and working in the marketing industry for various companies including Coca-Cola, I returned to school last year to study at New York University. I'm the product of a loving working class family, a public education, and a supportive community. The people of South Brooklyn have given me so much. And it's time for me to give back.

I know the current recession has had devastating effects on everyone. But I see my community - my family - under increasingly more pressure every day. Over the past few years, I've watched vibrant neighborhoods deteriorate and small businesses close.

I've sat with friends who have lost their jobs. I've waited 20 minutes for a train, and I've walked over two miles to catch a bus. I've paid higher taxes, but continue to feel the effects of "budget cuts." I've listened to parents scared for their children's education, and worse, I've talked with parents scared for their children's safety. I've had enough. We deserve more.

The government must offer protection for more than the chosen few. Benefits and breaks are not just for the wealthy and the well-connected. We have to take care of those who have taken care of us, which is why I plan to make our seniors and veterans top priorities.

The possibilities are there, but our voices have not been heard. I have new energy and new ideas, but most importantly, I have integrity. I won't be bought, sold or borrowed, and I won't be afraid to go against the grain. My sole allegiance is to you - my friends, my family, and my neighbors - and that is something I will never lose sight of. I know where I came from, and I'm proud of it. Now it's my turn to give back.

This campaign is about improving our lives and creating security for our children and our parents. I know the road ahead will not be easy, but I couldn't be more optimistic.I look forward to speaking with you in the coming days to talk about these crucial issues and how you may be able to help our campaign.

I'm excited for this opportunity, and I want to thank each of you for your support.

Best,

Mike DiSanto

I say it is about damned time that Marty Golden gets a challenger. I just hope the supposed "leadership" of the Brooklyn Democrats give him some backing. Check out DiSanto's website and give him whatever time and money you can to defeat obstructionist Republican Marty Golden.