Democrat Simcha Felder Will Remain With Republicans: Reports

KENSINGTON, BROOKLYN — Democratic state senator Simcha Felder has decided to continue caucusing with Republicans and put an end to his party's hopes for regaining the majority, according to reports.

Felder, who represents central Brooklyn, issued a statement declaring he would sit with the Republican majority even after the Independent Democratic Conference disbanded earlier this month, the New York Times reported.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo brokered the dissolution of the IDC, a group of eight breakway Democrats who used to share power with the GOP.

Felder's announcement came the day of a special election that could have earned the Democrats control of the state Senate, but only if Felder had agreed to caucus with them.

Democrats had hoped that if Democrat Sheley Mayer won in Westchester County, Felder would provide them with the 32nd vote they needed to gain a majority, the Daily News first reported.

“Political gamesmanship must not be allowed to jeopardize the leadership, committee structure and staff of the New York State Senate,” Felder reportedly said in a statement.

“I believe it is my obligation to prevent an unprecedented and uncertain late-session political battle that will only hurt my constituents and New Yorkers.”

Correction: A previous version of this story said Sen. Simcha Felder was a member of the Independent Democratic Conference. He was not.

Photo courtesy of Hans Pennink/Associated Press