U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer on Tuesday endorsed Democratic state Senate candidate Jim Gaughran in Long Island’s 5th Senate district.

“Jim Gaughran has proven that he is a responsible leader who is able to keep costs low while maintaining outstanding services,” said Schumer, the Senate minority leader.

“As Chair of the Suffolk County Water Authority, Jim has shown that he has the skills Long Island families need from their next Senate Senator. He has been an ardent advocate for water rate payers who needed his leadership to hold American Water accountable. I am proud to endorse Jim Gaughran and I encourage all Nassau and Suffolk voters in the 5th State Senate District to vote for Jim on November 6.”

Gaughran is running to unseat Republican Sen. Carl Marcellino.

“I thank Senator Chuck Schumer for supporting my campaign and I am proud to have earned his endorsement. I’ve worked very hard as Suffolk County Water Authority chairman to ensure my constituents have the best possible services at the lowest possible costs,” Gaughran said.

“I am going to bring that experience to Albany to make sure state government runs better and provides better services for Long Island voters. Senator Marcellino has failed Long Island communities for decades in Albany, and that is why we need new leadership to get us back on track.”