Bruce Blakeman's entry into the governor's race could test the strength of Nassau and Suffolk's Republican parties, which fared better on election night than most of New York, political analysts told Newsday.

Hank Sheinkopf, a veteran political consultant, said Blakeman could parlay his strategy in getting reelected as Nassau County executive to his run for the state's highest office. He pointed to election night victories on Long Island, which saw the GOP dominate local and countywide races.

"Nassau and Suffolk County are the most successful Republican organizations in the state today, and if they want Blakeman, they'll get Blakeman — because they can turn out a vote," Sheinkopf said.

Blakeman launched his bid Tuesday with a video message on his campaign website, touting a record manag

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