Some local pols to face opponents

Two local officials will face challengers in the upcoming election if people follow through on the paperwork.

State Sen. Sonia Chang-Díaz has taken out election paperwork for the 2nd Suffolk District. So have Roy Owens and David Wyatt, two regular candidates for elected office.

Maura Hennigan, the clerk of the Suffolk County Superior Court for Criminal Business, has taken out election paperwork for another term. Robert Dello Russo, who Hennigan defeated in 2006 for her present term, and Carmen Alvarez Phillips, have taken out paperwork to challenge Hennigan.

State Rep. Jeffrey Sánchez has the paperwork for the 15th Suffolk District, but so far, no one else has followed his lead. Sánchez said he is collecting signatures—a state requirement—and going about his business per usual.

“I work hard in the community and plan on continuing on doing that,” he said.

State Reps. Russell Holmes (6th Suffolk) and Liz Malia (11th Suffolk) both took paperwork out, but no one else has for their respective districts.

Malia said it’s a bit early to announce she won’t have any challengers, but she is collecting signatures and introducing herself to the new precincts she has from the recent redistricting. Malia said there could be several reasons why she might not have any challengers: People might be satisfied with her work; they might not be focused on the election; or they might be angry at an issue or two, but overall are happy with her.

Candidates have until May 29 to file nomination papers. The primary election will be held Sept. 6.

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