Democrat Chief’s Deals Under Investigation

Suffolk Democratic Chairman Rich Schaffer’s controversial deals with Republican and Conservative leaders, which left voters without contested elections, triggered an intraparty revolt that has now been followed by FBI and state Attorney General scrutiny of his political operation.

The controversy intensified when Democratic county clerk candidate Anthony Portesy abandoned his campaign and accepted a Conservative Party judicial nomination, leaving Republican incumbent Vincent Puleo unopposed. Democratic comptroller candidate Jonathan Estreich reportedly faced similar pressure but refused to withdraw.

The arrangements helped fuel a challenge by Southold Democratic Chair Kathryn Casey Quigley, who criticized Schaffer’s dealmaking and called for greater party democracy. Schaffer narrowly survived the September 22 leadership contest with 43% of the party supporting Quigley.

Schaffer, who has chaired the Suffolk Democratic Committee for 26 years, also serves as Babylon Town supervisor and chairman of the town Democrats, a concentration of political and governmental power that raises questions about conflicts of interest and the extent of his influence over both party politics and government.

According to published reports, first reported by the New York Post, FBI agents and investigators from New York Attorney General Letitia James’ office interviewed Democratic committee members and a former Board of Elections employee concerning alleged payments, intimidation and pressure to support Schaffer.

James’ office previously confirmed receiving and reviewing complaints involving the Suffolk Democratic Committee. However, neither agency has publicly confirmed the scope or formal status of its investigation.

Islip Democratic Chair Leigh-Ann Barde confirmed being interviewed, while former elections employee Cameron Trent alleged he was fired for refusing to assist Schaffer’s reelection efforts.

Schaffer’s attorney, Mark Lesko, denied wrongdoing, describing the allegations as politically motivated. He has not responded to a request for comments.

Independent Assembly candidate Kimberly Wilder, running on the independent Voter Options line in the 2nd District, said the controversy reinforces her campaign’s message.

“I’m glad that someone’s looking into ways that political bosses might give undue influence in a party,” Wilder told the South Shore Press.

She said the scrutiny vindicates her “long-held belief” that voters should support grassroots democracy, rather than political bosses.