Over the past week, a growing chorus has been calling for Hiram Monserrate to show himself the door, with even people-who-have-no-say Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand joining a smattering of state senators yesterday. One thing they all had in common, besides an intolerance for acts of domestic violence, and maybe a bit of hard feelings over this summer’s Senate coup: They were all white. This is something that Ruben Diaz Sr. took careful note of this morning, with an ominous warning:
“All the white people, all the legislators, are asking for the head of the Puerto Rican. That’s what they want to do. They’re opening a Pandora case. Be careful what you wish for; you might get it.”
But just as it seemed that reignited racial tensions would be unleashed into the Democratic conference, a glimmer of hope appeared. Senator Bill Perkins, who is black, joined those calling on Monserrate to step down. Later, two Hispanic assemblywomen city councilwomen concurred. And Andrea-Stewart Cousins (also black) is saying that Monserrate should consider resigning, which is close enough. She, along with four other Democrats and four Republicans, will take part in a committee tasked with exploring the Senate’s options against Monserrate, the conclusions of which will surely be wholeheartedly accepted by all.
Monserrate Update: Meetings, Racial Tension [Daily Politics/NYDN]
