provide a level political playing field. Education Connor supported the creation of a state college tuition savings program and tuition tax credit . He was also an advocate of changing the state public school aid formula , as well as better pay for teachers and smaller class sizes . In 2007, he participated in negotiating an agreement to build the City's first ever green school in Battery Park City . Environment In addition to his contribution to the construction of New York's first green school (cited above), Mr. Connor supported increased use of alternative fuel technology, cleanup of contaminated industrial sites, and funding for open space preservation . According to EPL Environmental Advocates, Mr. Connor had the highest environmental rating in the Senate in 2007 . Civil and Human Rights Connor supports the right of women to choice in reproductive matters . He s supported non-discrimination on account of sexual orientation as well as equal legal rights for the LGBT community . He is an opponent of the death penalty but supported proposals to toughen gun laws and increase penalties for hate crimes . Senate Leadership Connor served for eight years as minority leader of the Senate until he was defeated for the position in 2002 by Sen. David Paterson, who went on to become Governor of New York. 2006 Campaign In 2006, Senator Connor was opposed in the Democratic primary by Ken Diamondstone, a developer of affordable housing ; it was the most serious race the 25th District had seen in years. A key issue in the campaign was Diamondstone's opposition to Brooklyn Bridge Park, a project that Senator Connor supported . Senator Connor won the race with more than 55% of the vote . Comptroller Candidacy In early 2007 he was among at least 18 candidates for New York State Comptroller, in a special contest decided by the State Legislature . Assemblyman Thomas DiNapoli won the race. 2008 Campaign In 2008, Senator Connor was opposed in the Democratic primary by Dan Squadron, a former aide to US Senator Chuck Schumer. Connor had been endorsed by Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz, and a number of his fellow state senators and members of Congress . Squadron had been endorsed by Schumer, Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Congressman Anthony Weiner, Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer, the New York Times and the Working Families Party. A debate, sponsored by the Citizens Union, occurred on