For this column I have interviewed Nassau County Democratic Chairman, Jay Jacobs.

BACKGROUND
Age 47; married with two daughters. Resident of Woodbury and a private business owner in Nassau County. Law Degree from Northwestern University.

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN NASSAU DEMS AND REPS
It's actually the Democratic Party and the Republican machine. My job is to keep focused on the issues that are important. Republicans are focused on keeping people in jobs so that the Party stays in power. The Democrats need to do a good job governing first in order to keep people in jobs.

JUDGESHIPS IN NASSAU
I wish that there were a way that we could depoliticize the process to select quality judges. There is nothing on the table currently regarding cross-endorsement of judges. I'm open to discussion in order to have a fair and balanced process.

TO NORTH HEMPSTEAD DEMOCRATS
I'm enjoying working with you and appreciate your support. I'm confident in your ability to lead North Hempstead Town and I will be there to help you.

LEGISLATIVE MINORITY
It's appropriate for the minority to take a position of opposition, but opposition shouldn't be obstructionism. Minority Leader Schmitt is mistaken by opposing every initiative of the Suozzi Administration. The voters of Nassau County can see through his negativity when he complains about the Suozzi budget and calls for cuts. Schmitt needs to be specific and answer as to what the cuts should be. Let's really see Peter Schmitt's "Contract for Nassau County!"

EARLY SUPPORT OF ANDREW CUOMO FOR GOVERNOR
A no brainer. I would not in hindsight have done anything different. The Cuomo family supported Tom Suozzi in the Primary last year. McCall did the reverse and supported DiNapoli. Loyalty to me in politics is at a premium.

MINOR PARTIES
They serve a purpose when they espouse a specific and unique political view. When they exist to squeeze the major parties, they no longer serve the public interest.

SUCCESSES AS CHAIRMAN
Getting Perry Pettus elected as a Councilman in Hempstead Village and Kevan Abrahams as the 1st District Legislator, in addition to raising substantial amounts of money. There is a new unity in the Democratic Party following the Sabbath days and we brought in a high-quality team of professionals.

POLITICAL YEARS 02 & 03
A lot is riding on McCall. With six weeks to go, it's tightening up. If he wins it will help the Dems. 2003 is our year to take our message to the public that says Tom Suozzi has proved he can do it because he has been doing it. Voters will appreciate the progress. Regarding the Board of Assessors, we need a new Assessor who will be more responsive to the homeowners who are living through a stressful reassessment process. The Legislative Majority stands or falls based on the Suozzi record.

PERSONAL GOALS
Happiness is key. I would like to get away with my wife on vacation. I hope to see my eldest daughter become a teacher as she plans to go to college in the next few years. I intend to continue to maintain my integrity.