NEW YORK (WCBS 880) – Former Nassau County legislator David Mejias has dropped out of the race for a New York state senate seat, eight days after he was arrested on charges of stalking and harassing his ex-girlfriend.

Mejias said in a statement, “My continued candidacy would replace a meaningful debate about the future of our great state with distraction and sensationalism.

LISTEN: WCBS 880 Reporter Sophia Hall with details on the charges against Dave Mejias

He added, “Long Island deserves better.”

The resignation came a day after the Democratic leadership threw their support behind the 39-year-old’s opponent.

Mejias has been charged with menacing, reckless endangerment and stalking. Police said he followed his ex-girlfriend on Piping Rock Road last Wednesday and then confronted the woman near her home.