In a startling move, the Staten Island Republican Party last night nominated scandal-scarred ex-Rep. Vito Fossella for his old seat — even though he wasn’t even there.
By a vote of 23-4, the GOP selected Fossella over candidates Michael Allegretti, a businessman, and Michael Grimm, a former US Marshal, to challenge Democratic Rep. Michael McMahon in November.
Fossella, who served five terms in Congress, decided not to run for reelection in 2008 after he was arrested for drunken driving in Virginia — and admitted he was there to see his mistress, a retired Air Force colonel, and their love child.
It is unclear whether Fossella, who is still married to his wife, Mary Pat, will even accept the nomination, but he has reportedly indicated an interest in getting his seat back.
Party Chairman John Friscia told the Executive Committee meeting that Fossella represents the best shot at beating McMahon in what is expected to be a tough year for incumbents.