Embattled New York State Senator Hiram Monserrate says he has no intention of resigning, even as a bipartisan panel of lawmakers met today to decide his fate following his conviction for misdemeanor assault of his girlfriend.
"The process continues and I look forward to fighting," Monserrate told NBC New York anchor Chuck Scarborough Tuesday night.
Asked if he feels his recent domestic violence trial and his part in last summer's month-long coup in Albany have been a disgrace, the Senator again said his actions have been misunderstood.
"It is very easy to blame myself and one other person” he said of the coup, referring to the other rogue Democrat that launched the standoff, Sen. Pedro Espada. "Even with all the challenges, we’ve passed two budget reductions, we took on hundreds of other bills," he said of the Senate.
Asked whether he can fairly represent the interests of women after being accused of domestic violence, Monserrate said he has been the victim of "accusations based on half truths."
"If you look at the facts of the case, it is clear that I never intended to cause harm (to his girlfriend)."
"I took someone reticent to receive medical treatment to the hospital," he said.
Meantime, the Senate Special Committee on Monserrate met for several hours today, reviewing grand jury testimony from the case and looking at precedents from other states to see how different legislatures have handled such cases.
Sources familiar with the case say they do believe there will be some disciplinary action for Monserrate, who could face censure or expulsion.
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The panel will meet again next week, with a decision expected at the end of this month.
