The longest-serving chair of the New York State Conservative Party has died.
Long played key role in election of George Pataki as Governor
Michael Long died after a long illness at 82. the Brooklyn-born Long headed the Conservative Party for over 30 years, from 1988-2019. He played a key role in getting Republican George Pataki elected Governor and also served as an at-large member of the New York City Council from 1981-83.
The Conservative Party nomination helped Pataki defeat Mario Cuomo for the governorship in 1994 and helped Alfonso D’Amato be elected to three terms in the US Senate. Long is survived by: his wife of 59 years, Eileen; nine children; 25 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.
He died at home in Breezy Point surrounded by his family, said his son, Chris Long.
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