Biden assisting Westchester pol

ALBANY — A state assemblywoman running for state Senate in a critical special election in Westchester County Tuesday has the backing of former Vice President Joe Biden.

Biden has cut a last-minute automated phone call on behalf of Democrat Shelley Mayer, who is facing off against Republican Julie Killian.

Calling Mayer “the best candidate,” Biden says, “Shelley is a fighter who will stand up and champion our values: commonsense gun reform, protecting women's health and the environment, and supporting our schools.”

The race could help decide which party controls the Senate.