This Is the Cup of Hiram's Blood, Which Will Be Shed for You and for All

By Azi Paybarah

Here’s Hiram Monserrate this morning at the National Action Network, talking about his decision to return to the Democratic caucus.

At the event, Monserrate likened himself to Jesus, who “began to turn over a few tables” in order “to get the people’s business done right.”

Monserrate went on to say that “if it cost my election because I decided to turn over a table or two, and say that business has got to be done differently, so be it. That means I’m going to be here seven days a week, volunteering at the National Action Network.”

When Monserrate finished, he began walking off stage, but came back when he heard the Rev. Al Sharpton.

“Always remember that when Jesus turned over the table, he knew he could be crucified, but he knew he could get back up. Always make sure you got the resurrection guaranteed before you start getting crucified,” Sharpton said.

Sharpton organized the day’s event, attended by a number of state senators, including Malcolm Smith, who Monserrate basically kicked out of the leadership role; John Sampson, Smith’s replacement; and Tom Duane, who voiced his support for the Democratic Party after sending a letter yesterday saying he was troubled that same-sex marriage wasn’t being supported enough by the conference.

Azi Paybarah can be reached via email at azi.paybarah@politickerny.com.