NEW YORK (AP) — The Queens Democratic Party is backing a challenger to disgraced state Sen. Hiram Monserrate in next year's primary.
Party leaders are endorsing Assemblyman Jose Peralta over Monserrate in the September 2010 primary.
Rep. Joseph Crowley, the leader of the Queens Democratic Party, planned to announce the endorsement at a dinner Thursday.
Monserrate was acquitted Oct. 15 of smashing a glass into his girlfriend's face but was convicted of a lesser charge for dragging her bleeding from his apartment.
Monserrate has refused calls to resign his Senate seat from Crowley, Gov. David Paterson and others.
Peralta said he appreciates the party's support.
Monserrate did not return a call placed to his office for comment.
©2009 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
