Bay Ridge’s 10-year incumbent Democratic councilman fended off a GOP attempt to push him off his perch — and will become the longest-serving member of the city legislature next year.
Councilman Vincent Gentile (D–Bay Ridge) defeated Republican challenger John Quaglione 65 percent–35 percent to win a third term representing Bay Ridge, Dyker Heights, Bensonhurst and Bath Beach, following a bitter campaign.
“The hardworking people of the 43rd District have spoken and renewed my contract!” Gentile declared on election night.
Quaglione — an aide to state Sen. Marty Golden (R–Bay Ridge) — blasted Gentile during the campaign for seeking another four years in office despite voting against the 2009 measure that extended the two-term limit. But Gentile argued his newfound seniority would allow him to bring home more bacon to the district.
“I want to put my experience to work for you,” he told supporters.
The veteran pol has even raised the possibility that he might ascend to the powerful Speakership position, though Democratic Party insiders have dismissed the claim as merely a play to draw more votes. With Park Sloper Bill DeBlasio elected mayor, and Fort Greene councilwoman Tish James becoming Public Advocate, representatives from the other boroughs would be unlikely to elect another Brooklynite to helm the Council.
Gentile served for six years in the state Senate before losing his seat to then-Councilman Marty Golden in 2002. Gentile then ran for and won Golden’s vacant post, and has won re-election three times. He has chaired — and been the sole member of — the Council’s Select Committee on Libraries since 2006.
