Previously, Long represented the Borough of Brooklyn at-large on the New York City Council from 1981 to 1983.

He attended Richmond Hill High School, dropping out of the 12th grade in 1959 to join the United States Marine Corps.

[4][5] Long unsuccessfully[6] challenged sitting New York City Councilman Sal Albanese in 1985 in the 31st District (Bay Ridge); the seat was previously held by Republican Angelo J.

[10] In 1999, Long stated that if he compromised on the issue of late-term abortion (which the Party wishes to ban), he would not be able "'to go to sleep at night or look in the mirror.

[14] His brother, Thomas Long, has served as chairman of the Queens County chapter of the Conservative Party.