Dem primary, strong support for Silverman, a democratic outsider

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The unofficial results from last night’s Democratic primary for Glen Cove City Council reveal a very tight race, but one that unequivocally shows a great deal of support for outsider Marsha Silverman. Coming in second with 581 votes, she earned a slot on the ballot in November, with Republicans and Democrats, who will compete for six seats on the City Council.

“My major challenge was going up against the entire political machine,” said Silverman last night, taking a break from celebrating her win with friends and family at her home. “This is exhilarating.”

She describes her campaign as “grassroots,” adding that she believes the people in Glen Cove are ready for change. “They want something outside the status quo,” she said. “I have the support of the bluest of blue Democrats and Republicans who are the reddest of red. They see me as someone with integrity that wants to represent every single person.”

Annie Phillips, a lifelong Glen Covian, garnered the most votes — 591. “I’m pretty surprised by the results,” she said. “I’m not a limelight person, more of a behind the scenes person. But I feel very passionate about the idea of representing the citizens of Glen Cove and working for their best interests.”

Incumbent Roderick Watson lost the race, unless the final numbers, which will become official after absentee ballots are counted, shows otherwise. He had 545 votes, only three votes behind newcomer, Marcela De La Fuente. He will however, be included in the general election on the Women's Equality and Working Family lines regardless. Roger Williams also won the support of primary voters.

Like many of the candidates, winner Gaitley Stevenson-Mathews is entering the political arena for the first time. “I love campaigning and it feels natural and right for me,” he said. “When I first said I’d run I was told I had to go out into the different communities in Glen Cove. But once I did, I realized I know so many people already.”

Andrew Bennett, who is also new to politics, said he enjoyed campaigning too. “It invigorated me that so much of what I cared about people care about too — fiscal responsibility with the various projects in Glen Cove and that local government needs more transparency,” he said.

Tim Tenke who is running for mayor on the Democratic ticket, said the evening was bittersweet, due to Watson’s loss.

“The entire team worked so hard together,” he said. “We don’t ordinarily have primaries. We are now ready to move forward and win in November.”