Felder’s Switch to GOP Provokes Strong Reactions Around New York

Simcha Felder’s move to caucus with Republicans and move the GOP within one vote of controlling the State Senate has provoked reactions from around the state.

• “People sell their souls all the time” was the first line in a New York post article about Felder’s switch titled “The devil went up to Albany.”

• George Arzt, a spokesman for the Kings County Democratic Leader and Assemblyman Nick Perry of Brooklyn have said that Felder should be expelled from the Democratic Party, reports Capital New York. The Brooklyn Democratic County Leader Frank Seddio, said, “Felder’s entire campaign was a lie.”

• Seddio told the NY Post that Felder’s decision to side with Republicans in a Senate leadership fight a “betrayal.”

• Councilman Lew Fidler told Capital New York,”Obviously, I am extremely disappointed in my friend Simcha Felder.”

• Several residents in the more liberal northern sections of 17th district have expressed disapproval of the move, saying that Felder has failed to adequately represent the people outside of Midwood and Boro Park who make up the majority of his district.

• Ditmas Park Corner commenters were angered by the switch, calling the move low and questioning Felder’s integrity.

• Assemblyman Dov Hikind said the outrage was a “hypocrisy” and “makes me want to vomit,” reports Capital New York.

• “The Democratic party doesn’t sound very democratic today,” said Felder in a statement. “I’ve said before, and happy to say again: my first priority is doing what’s best for the 17th district.”

Control of the New York State Senate remains closely contested but undecided at this point.