"Yeah, it'll probably happen," one Long Island Republican said.

The Long Island Republicans are dispirited and in disarray.

He added that Long Island Republicans "never do well in special elections."

The Senator, a Long Island Republican, has been dogged by charges that he used his office to benefit family, friends and campaign contributors illegally.

But Long Island Republicans, worried by some recent Democratic victories there, want to bring home more to their constituents.

Long Island Republicans should reassert their traditional philosophical commitment to local government that reduces expenses, caps taxes and provides essential services.

"It's a disaster," said a ranking Long Island Republican who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Other issues will come far closer to the political marrow of Long Island Republicans.

Negotiations broke down as more money for education was demanded by Long Island Republicans.

The Long Island Republican declined to say who had made the threats.