State Senate leader Malcolm Smith (D−St. Albans) must join with those calling for state Sen.−elect Hiram Monserrate (D−Jackson Heights) to resign in the wake of his arrest on assault charges. Reportedly, his girlfriend told police that Monserrate stabbed her in the face with a broken drinking glass Dec. 19. Up to 20 stitches were needed to close the gash on her face.
As district chairwoman for a part of Monserrate’s state Senate district, these charges, if true, prove he is unfit to represent our community in Albany.
Violence against women is a blight upon our society. It is even more disgraceful when it is allegedly perpetrated by men in positions of power and public trust. Monserrate’s alleged disregard for his girlfriend’s body and safety is unacceptable.
Smith must make it clear that he will not tolerate such behavior and demand that his colleague step down.
Marie Lynch
District Chairwoman
36th Assembly District
Astoria
