NEW YORK— In a statement released on September 29, Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos announced his decision to switch parties and become a Democrat.

He said, “For years, I have been at odds with the Republican Committee over issues of fiscal responsibility, borrowing, waste, and trust in government. I have been at odds over raising the minimum wage, and increased opportunities for women, minorities and veterans. Over time, I found that my values have become more aligned with the Democratic Party. Consequently, this morning, I have submitted, to the Nassau County Board of Elections, an application to change my party registration to Democrat.”

Maragos went on to say, “To Republican Chairman Joe Mondello, I want to express my gratitude for the great opportunity he gave me to be of public service. I also, would like to thank my many Republican friends for their friendship. I hope that our friendship will continue and transcend party ideology.”

To reassure the voters who elected him, he said, “My party change will have NO impact on my responsibilities as Comptroller. I will continue to run the office in an independent and bipartisan manner, as I have done in the past six years.”

Maragos continued, “We are all aware that Nassau County faces significant financial challenges, multiple corruption allegations, weak economic growth, and a costly and  unfair  tax assessment system, We CANNOT continue to borrow in order to pay the bills, defer paying bills, or hit our residents with BIG fees.”

“Nassau County can do better! We need to restore trust in government, strengthen public health and safety, eliminate waste, balance the budget without borrowing, and finally fix the broken tax assessment system which is costing tax payers nearly $100M/ per year resulting in higher taxes for many.”

He also announced his run for Nassau County Executive, saying, “In order to address these pressing issues, today, I am announcing that I will be seeking the Democratic Party nomination for Nassau County Executive. As a two term Comptroller, I have intimate knowledge of the challenges facing our government, 35 years of proven senior management experience, and the integrity to deal with the issues facing Nassau County.”

“Together, we can make Nassau County a better place to stay, live, find good paying jobs, raise a family, and retire in our homes!  I look forward to work closely with Chairman Jay Jacobs and all elected officials to make Nassau County more affordable, vibrant and with a Government we can be proud of.”