Coming off the heels of their successful bid to increase their majority on the 18-member Suffolk County Legislature, the now 11-member Democratic/Working Families caucus rewarded Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) for his leadership skills by coming together at an organizational meeting yesterday to unanimously re-elect him as their Majority Leader for a third consecutive term.

Democrats followed up on their historic defeat of the Republicans during the 2005 elections by not only successfully defending challenges to the ten seats they currently hold but by pulling off a major upset in this November's election of Brian Beedenbender to the traditionally Republican-held open seat being vacated by Legislator Joe Caracappa in the 6th district.

Beedenbender, who hails from Centereach, is currently a senior aide to County Executive Steve Levy. Cooper credits his new colleague for his hard work in winning the seat and believes that Beedenbender's experience in County government will allow him to serve his constituents effectively in the coming months.

"I have no doubt that the skills Brian exhibited on the campaign trail—diligence, openness and thoughtfulness—will also serve him well in his new post at the Legislature," said Cooper. "I'm grateful for the trust he has shown in me by supporting my renomination and expect him to be a great asset to this body and this County."

"Jon has done a great job organizing and coordinating the caucus," stated Beedenbender. "I look forward to working with him for the betterment of all Suffolk County residents."

Cooper, a popular eight-year veteran of the Legislature, is widely recognized on both sides of the aisle as being one of the most prolific lawmakers in Suffolk County history. His initiatives have not only been adopted by state lawmakers but have been the impetus for national legislation as well. While balancing his continuing leadership responsibilities with his service to the people of the 18th district, Cooper will also still stay on as President of Spectronics Corporation, a company with nearly 200 employees that is one of the few remaining manufacturing firms on Long Island. On top of all this, Cooper will also be kept busy raising his five children with his life partner of 28 years, Rob.

"I'm honored that my colleagues continue to express their confidence in me," said Cooper. "The growth of this caucus demonstrates a growing trust between voters and Democratic elected officials all across Suffolk County. It's a trust we are grateful for achieving and a bond we must be ever mindful of defending."