Election 2012: Fifth State Senate District

A last minute nominee is taking on a senator who has had a 17-year term. Sen. Carl Marcellino, R-Syosset, has served as the fifth district's senator for nearly two decades, and newcomer David Wright will attempt to unseat him.

Marcellino was elected to Senate in 1995. Often winning in landslides, Marcellino has been an advocate for Stephanie's Law, the Unpaid Wages Prohibition Act, and a cost of living adjustments bill.

Both candidates have worked in schools and say they hold educational issues close to their hearts. Marcellino is a former science teacher and Wright was a high school guidance counselor and college advisor. Both also believe the environment is a priority. Wright said the health of harbors is vital to the district and is a supporter of alternative energies. Marcellino has served on and has chaired the senate's Environmental Conservation Committee.

Though their stances on education and environmental issues sway in similar directions, voters will have to decide which former school employee is the best fit for the Fifth Senate District.

District

Huntington, Northport, Eaton's Neck, Asharoken, Bayville, Brookville, Centre Island, Cove Neck, East Norwich, Glen Head, Glenwood Landing, Jericho, Lattingtown, Laurel Hollow, Locust Valley, Matinecock, Muttontown, Old Brookville, Oyster Bay, Oyster Bay Cove, Plainview, Sea Cliff, Syosset, Upper Brookville, Woodbury

Candidates

• Sen. Carl Marcellino
• David Wright