Like anything else in life, politics is complicated.

Sea Cliff Mayor Bruce Kennedy, a life-long Republican, was selected as his party’s choice to challenge long-time Assemb. Charles Levine (D-Glen Cove) in November and even attended the Republican’s state convention.

“I wanted to move up—it seemed like the next logical step,” he said of running against Levine.

On Thursday, Kennedy stood side-by-side with his one-time rival and about 50 other Democrats as he announced his New York State Senate bid—now as a registered Democrat. His challenger: State Sen. Carl Marcellino (R-Syosset). A lot has changed since Republicans tapped him as their choice to unseat Levine.

“This past month has been crazy,” Kennedy said, standing outside “Liberty Plaza,” which is attached to...| read more ››