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(Photo Courtesy: DanTD)

St. James, NY (SmithtownRadio.com) – Maybe it’s just good timing but the question of whether Steve Bellone’s holiday donation is more political than personal has been risen after he single handling saved Christmas. Okay, maybe he didn’t save Christmas but the democratic candidate for Suffolk County Executive did save a popular St. James Santa Clause just days before Election Day.

On Friday, Newsday reported the Suffolk County Parks Department had cut the salary for the St. James General Store Santa, also known as 83-year-old David McKell. The reason: budget cuts.

Numerous folks stepped forward to pay the $660 salary, including WALK radio. However, the first person to sign and present a check was the current Babylon town supervisor, who hopes to win a new office in Tuesday’s election.

Bellone says his motivation isn’t political but rather personal.

“It’s been a tradition for our family for the last several years and it has been a tradition for a lot of families in Suffolk County,” he told reporters during a press conference he held outside the store.

Your Thoughts: Is Bellone’s donation political tactic or holiday generosity?